A draft plan linked to the Great Nicobar Island Project proposes relocation of Nicobarese tribal families, raising concerns over lack of clarity, consent and potential displacement.

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• A draft “Comprehensive Tribal Welfare Plan” proposes relocation of Nicobarese families affected by the project.
• Plan prepared by Andaman and Nicobar administration was circulated on March 13, 2026 for consultation.
• Relocation proposed from tsunami-affected and project-impacted areas to “ancestral lands”.
• Total outlay of ₹42.52 crore planned for relocation over 24 months.
• Proposal includes housing, land development and basic infrastructure support.
• Lack of clarity on relocation sites, number of families and consent process has raised concerns.
• Tribal communities fear displacement and loss of traditional forest rights.
• Communities have been protesting the ₹92,000 crore mega project for several years.
• Consent for the project was reportedly withdrawn by tribes in 2022.
• Earlier, government had assured that tribes would not be disturbed or displaced.
• Draft plan mentioning relocation has created confusion and mistrust among locals.
• Issue highlights conflict between infrastructure development and tribal rights protection.