India eyes nuclear power in Andamans as China challenge grows near Malacca Strait

Scientists from India's Bhabha Atomic Research Centre are currently evaluating potential sites for Small Modular Reactors (SMRs) in the Andaman and Nicobar Islands. This initiative aims to bolster the archipelago's energy security as India expands its strategic and civilian infrastructure near the critical Malacca Strait. A team from the Department of Atomic Energy is scheduled to visit the islands from September 4 to 8, assessing potential SMR sites across all three districts.

This assessment follows a recommendation to consider SMRs to meet the increasing electricity demand fueled by major infrastructure projects, such as the International Container Transhipment Terminal, a new airport, and deep-water multipurpose ports.

The BARC team has briefed the Andaman and Nicobar Islands Lieutenant Governor, Admiral D K Joshi, on the potential SMR sites and other aspects of the proposed plan. The significance of these SMR sites is heightened by the Great Nicobar Project, a strategically important infrastructure initiative in the region. The project includes an International Container Transhipment Terminal at Galathea Bay, a greenfield international airport, a township, and associated power infrastructure.

Described as having strategic, defence, and national-security significance, the Great Nicobar Project is aimed at enhancing India's presence in the Andaman Sea and Southeast Asia, as well as establishing a major maritime hub near key international shipping routes.

The project's strategic importance lies in India's efforts to expand its economic and strategic footprint in the eastern Indian Ocean, countering China's growing presence in the region. The government has explicitly classified the Great Nicobar Project as having strategic, defence, and national-security importance. A robust and permanent defence presence on the island is expected to aid India in monitoring and securing maritime routes while countering foreign powers in the Indian Ocean.

The Malacca Strait, a major maritime chokepoint connecting the Indian and Pacific Oceans, plays a crucial role in this strategy. The proximity of Great Nicobar to the western approaches of the strait gives India a strategically important position in the region.

The Andaman and Nicobar Command, India's only integrated tri-services command, was established due to the archipelago's strategic location along vital sea lines of communication. The Ministry of Defence highlights the islands' geography as enabling India to safeguard its maritime interests and deter potential threats, positioning the command as a critical element in the country's broader Act East strategy.