Andaman and Nicobar news & politics
The latest news from Andaman and Nicobar, where N/A (Central Govt) is Chief Minister. Most covered in the last 30 days: protest opposition, foreign policy, economy.
P. J. Cherian uncovers 1.3 lakh artefacts at Pattanam revealing global maritime network
Between 2006 and 2023, P. J. Cherian led excavations at Pattanam, Keralam, uncovering 1.3 lakh artefacts from 300 BCE to 300 CE. Collaborations with the British Museum, Oxford, and Palace Museum identified a global maritime network. Despite a 2016 disruption, the PAMA Institute continued research until 2023, discovering a Roman Emperor Domitian statue before proposing a 21st-century Viswa Bharathi.
P. J. Cherian uncovers 1.3 lakh artefacts at Pattanam despite $8 million plan stall
Between 2006 and 2023, P. J. Cherian led excavations at Pattanam, Keralam, uncovering 1.3 lakh artefacts dating from 300 BCE to 300 CE. Despite international collaboration with institutions like the British Museum and Palace Museum, a decade-long interruption in 2016 stalled an $8 million laboratory plan. The PAMA Institute continued research until 2023, identifying a Roman Emperor Domitian statue.
Samajwadi Party announces Ram Gopal Yadav and Dhanraj Parimal Nathwani for Rajya Sabha polls
The Samajwadi Party has announced Ram Gopal Yadav and Dhanraj Parimal Nathwani as candidates for the Rajya Sabha polls in Uttar Pradesh. The BJP-led alliance is likely to win eight seats, while SP with Congress support can secure two. A third SP candidate will be declared. Elections are due on October 16 after nominations close on October 6, following resignations and term expirations of nine members including Union ministers Hardeep Singh Puri and BL Verma.
Dinesh Sharma, former Uttar Pradesh deputy Chief Minister and Rajya Sabha member
On September 15, 2026, Dinesh Sharma, former Uttar Pradesh deputy Chief Minister and Rajya Sabha member since 2023, will be sworn in as lieutenant governor of the Andaman and Nicobar Islands by Calcutta High Court Justice Ravindra Vithalrao Ghuge. He arrived on September 13 and was received at Veer Savarkar International Airport by local officials. Sharma held various portfolios during his tenure in Uttar Pradesh and replaces D.K. Joshi, who has served since October 8, 2017.
Dr. Dinesh Sharma, 62, appointed Lt Governor of Andaman and Nicobar Islands
On Saturday, the Rashtrapati Bhavan announced that Dr. Dinesh Sharma, 62 and vice chairperson of the Rajya Sabha, was appointed Lt Governor of Andaman and Nicobar Islands. His term begins when he assumes office. Previously, Sharma served as deputy chief minister of Uttar Pradesh and his Rajya Sabha term ended on November 25.
Andaman and Nicobar Administration Withdraws Green AI Data Centre EoI
On August 10, the administration in the Andaman and Nicobar Islands called for feasibility proposals for a private-sector-led green AI data centre near Little Andaman and Great Nicobar Island. The Expression of Interest (EoI) sought solutions using renewable energy and freshwater-free cooling methods. Four days later, citing "administrative reasons," the administration withdrew the EoI on August 14, 2026.
Andaman and Nicobar Invites Proposals for Green AI/Data Centre, Faces Tribal Opposition
The Andaman and Nicobar administration has invited feasibility proposals for a private-sector-led "Green AI/Data Centre Vertical" on the islands, with Campbell Bay in Great Nicobar Island as one potential site. This move faces opposition from local tribal communities who are already against a proposed ₹91,000-crore mega infrastructure project on GNI. Published August 14, 2026.
Andaman officials accused of forcing Shompen into modern lifestyle under ₹91,000-crore project
Tribal leaders accused the Andaman and Nicobar island administration of forcing the Shompen, an isolated indigenous community, into a modern lifestyle as part of the ₹91,000-crore Great Nicobar Island development project. At a July 16 meeting, Chandra Bhushan Kumar, then-Chief Secretary, said the Shompen must adapt and that a settlement might be built for them. The Tribal Council alleged these statements ignored their concerns raised at the meeting. Mr. Kumar did not respond to queries from The Hindu. Published August 13, 2026.
Fast-track courts ordered to crack down on NEET leak cases amid minister's resignation
The Calcutta High Court ordered five dedicated fast-track courts—three in Kolkata and two in Port Blair—to exclusively try NEET paper leak cases, aiming to conclude trials within three months. This move follows nationwide protests and the resignation of Dharmendra Pradhan as Union Education Minister. Prime Minister Narendra Modi announced setting up fast-track courts for exam malpractice cases last week. The designated courts will handle cases investigated by agencies like the CBI, addressing delays in complex prosecutions involving multiple accused and digital evidence. Published July 31, 2026.
Friends of Snakes Society, a Hyderabad-based rescue organization, faces increased AI-generated snake
Friends of Snakes Society, a Hyderabad-based rescue organization, faces increased AI-generated snake image pranks since January 2024. Pranksters and those unable to capture real snakes send fake images, diverting resources and eroding trust. From 5-10 such images monthly till June, now receive multiple daily. Rescue teams screen but do not dismiss calls, traveling long distances for false alerts. Published July 31, 2026.
Fast-track courts set for exam leak cases as Modi’s amendment awaits Rajya Sabha approval
On Wednesday, the Calcutta High Court designated three fast-track courts in Kolkata and two in Andaman and Nicobar Islands to handle question paper leak cases under the Public Examinations (Prevention of Unfair Means) Act 2024. Trials must conclude within three months after chargesheets are filed, following Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s announcement last week. The Lok Sabha passed an amendment to the Act on Wednesday; it awaits Rajya Sabha approval and presidential assent. Corresponding fast-track sessions courts will handle appeals independently of other active courts in the state.
Scientists Deploy 3D-Printed Pods to Save Disappearing Seagrass Around Koh Lidi
Marine scientists in Thailand are using 3D-printed bioplastic shelters to protect young seagrass shoots from waves and marine predators around Koh Lidi, Mu Ko Phetra National Park. Seagrass meadows are disappearing due to environmental pressures, affecting local fishing communities and the declining dugong population. The pods, made of polyhydroxyalkanoate (PHA), break down naturally after protecting the seagrass roots. Researchers from Walailak University and Murdoch University developed this technology with financial support from the National Research Council of Thailand and Murdoch's Bioplastics Innovation Hub. Testing is ongoing before field deployment begins.
