Current Affairs 17-02-2026

NGT gives clearance to Great Nicobar Project

On February 16, 2026, the National Green Tribunal (NGT) dismissed all appeals against the Environmental Clearance (EC) for the ₹92,000-crore project.
The NGT applied the "Doctrine of Balanced Approach," prioritizing the project's strategic, defense, and national importance while mandating "strict compliance" with environmental safeguards.
The tribunal relied on a High-Powered Committee (HPC) report (headed by former Environment Secretary Leena Nandan) which concluded that no part of the project falls within prohibited ICRZ-IA (Island Coastal Regulation Zone) areas.

The project, spread over 166 sq. km, consists of four critical components:

International Container Transshipment Terminal (ICTT): Located at Galathea Bay; aims to rival Singapore and Colombo.
Greenfield International Airport: Designed for dual-use (civil-military) to bolster the Andaman & Nicobar Command (ANC).
Power Plant: A 450 MVA hybrid gas and solar-based system.
Integrated Township: Planned to facilitate economic and tourism growth.

Malacca Dilemma: The island overlooks the Six Degree Channel and the Strait of Malacca, through which nearly 40% of global trade and China's energy imports pass.
Net Security Provider: Enhances India's ability to monitor maritime activity in the Indo-Pacific and counter the "String of Pearls" strategy.
Act East Policy: Serves as a gateway to Southeast Asia, aligning with the SAGAR (Security and Growth for All in the Region) doctrine.

Endemic Species: Galathea Bay is a major nesting site for the Leatherback Sea Turtle (world’s largest turtle). Other species affected include the Nicobar Megapode and Nicobar Macaque.
Deforestation: Diversion of ~130 sq. km of primary rainforest (approx. 8.5 to 9.6 lakh trees).
Tribal Rights: Concerns regarding the Shompen (a Particularly Vulnerable Tribal Group - PVTG) and the Nicobarese tribe. Critics argue the project violates the Forest Rights Act (2006) and tribal reserve protections.
Seismic Risk: The region is in Seismic Zone V. The 2004 Tsunami caused tectonic subsidence (sinking) in some areas of the island.

Q: The Malacca Strait connects which two major water bodies?

A. Mediterranean Sea and Atlantic Ocean

B. South China Sea and Indian Ocean

C. Arabian Sea and Red Sea

D. Pacific Ocean and Arctic Ocean

Correct Answer: B. South China Sea and Indian Ocean