Draft Annual Plan 2005-2006 Volume-II Andaman and Nicobar Administration

Abstract

The Andaman & Nicobar Islands located amidst Bay of Bengal is the most remote settlement in India , far exceeding the degree of in accessibility that can be claimed by any other State located elsewhere in the mainland India. It may be appreciated that stations in the A & N Archipelago are anywhere between 1200 KM and 1800 KM from the nearest point on the India Mainland and the sea link is across turbulent waters in the Bay of Bengal which remains stormy for 7 to 8 months every year. Besides there are serious impediments including those of the environment in promoting vide varieties of industries which are easily sustainable on mainland. The GOI has agreed upon that the Island Transport Subsidy scheme will be extended for three more years till 31.03.2003 and the subsidy rate would be 85%, 80% and 75% for next three consecutive years commencing from 2000-01. Under