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The Hindu
03-08-2025
- Politics
- The Hindu
A total of 140 people of Nicobari tribe, PVTGs to join Andaman Police
A total of 140 people from Nicobari tribe and Particularly Vulnerable Tribal Groups (PVTGs) will join the Andaman and Nicobar Police as part of their gradual integration in Port Blair,' a senior officer said. 'The PVTGs, which include Onge, Great Andamanese, Nicobari, will join as Home Guard Volunteers and their recruitment process was successfully concluded in a fair, transparent and meticulous manner recently,' the officer said. Speaking to PTI, Director General of Police, Andaman and Nicobar Islands, Hargobinder Singh Dhaliwal said, "I would like to congratulate all the willing PVTGs and Nicobari tribe who successfully secured their position in our Department. We will provide them with a special training session considering their culture and tradition." He said, "The recruitment process was carried out with a strong emphasis on inclusive representation and participation, especially from women candidates. The final selection also features candidates with academic and technical qualifications in fields such as hotel management, computer applications, and ITI trades. Their commitment will strengthen community-oriented policing in the Islands.' Elaborating further, the DGP said, "A Total of 132 Nicobari candidates, including 41 females, three Great Andamanese, including one female and five Onge, are now part of our police family." The gradual integration is also noticed among other PVTGs such as Shompens and Jarawas (Ang) who live in their respective reserved dense forests where non-tribals are barred. A watershed moment took place on April 19, 2024, when Nauaaw and six other Shompens, including Jetuwai, Thuwaee, and Chemai, voted in the Lok Sabha elections for the first time, marking a significant milestone for their community. Shompens are predominantly uncontacted nomadic hunters, with a population of 244 on Nicobar Island. "In the coming years, we should not be surprised to see Shompens joining the police force. The gradual integration of PVTGs is occurring through tribal policies that encourage developing communication channels and participation based on their willingness," a senior administrative officer said. He added that the Ang (Jarawa) tribe is also adapting to mainstream lifestyles, with initiatives such as the 'AngKatha' educational module documenting their rituals and ethnobotanical knowledge. Similar educational modules are in place for other PVTGs, which will help them differentiate between societal norms," he said. When contacted, one of the selected Onge candidates of Dugong Creek, Tibilachu, said, "I don't have words to express my gratitude to the Andaman police. It was a tough journey for me, but I am happy to clear all the tests." Another Great Andamanese female selected candidate, Kelu from Strait Island, feels that more PVTGs will come forward to join the mainstream and expressed her desire to learn combat skills during her tenure in Andaman police.
News18
03-08-2025
- Politics
- News18
140 people of Nicobari tribe, PVTGs to join Andaman Police
Agency: Last Updated: August 03, 2025, 12:15 IST Representational image (Image: News18) Port Blair, Aug 3 (PTI) A total of 140 people from Nicobari tribe and Particularly Vulnerable Tribal Groups (PVTGs) will join the Andaman and Nicobar Police as part of their gradual integration in Port Blair, a senior officer said The PVTGs, which include Onge, Great Andamanese, Nicobari will join as Home Guard Volunteers and their recruitment process was successfully concluded in a fair, transparent and meticulous manner recently, the officer said. Speaking to PTI, Director General of Police, Andaman and Nicobar Islands, Hargobinder Singh Dhaliwal said, 'I would like to congratulate all the willing PVTGs and Nicobari tribe who successfully secured their position in our department. We will provide them with a special training session considering their culture and tradition." He said, 'The recruitment process was carried out with a strong emphasis on inclusive representation and participation, especially from women candidates. The final selection also features candidates with academic and technical qualifications in fields such as hotel management, computer applications, and ITI trades. Their commitment will strengthen community-oriented policing in the Islands." Elaborating further, the DGP said, 'A Total of 132 Nicobari candidates, including 41 females, three Great Andamanese, including one female and five Onge, are now part of our police family." The gradual integration is also noticed among other PVTGs such as Shompens and Jarawas (Ang) who live in their respective reserved dense forests where non-tribals are barred. A watershed moment took place on April 19, 2024, when Nauaaw and six other Shompens, including Jetuwai, Thuwaee, and Chemai, voted in the Lok Sabha elections for the first time, marking a significant milestone for their community. Shompens are predominantly uncontacted nomadic hunters, with a population of 244 on Nicobar Island. 'In the coming years, we should not be surprised to see Shompens joining the police force. The gradual integration of PVTGs is occurring through tribal policies that encourage developing communication channels and participation based on their willingness," a senior administrative officer said. Swipe Left For Next Video View all He added that the Ang (Jarawa) tribe is also adapting to mainstream lifestyles, with initiatives like the 'AngKatha' educational module documenting their rituals and ethnobotanical knowledge." 'Similar educational modules are in place for other PVTGs, which will help them differentiate between societal norms," he said. When contacted, one of the selected Onge candidates of Dugong Creek, Tibilachu, said, 'I don't have words to express my gratitude to the Andaman police. It was a tough journey for me, but I am happy to clear all the tests." Another Great Andamanese female selected candidate, Kelu from Strait Island, feels that more PVTGs will come forward to join the mainstream and expressed her desire to learn combat skills during her tenure in Andaman police. PTI SN SN RG (This story has not been edited by News18 staff and is published from a syndicated news agency feed - PTI) view comments Disclaimer: Comments reflect users' views, not News18's. Please keep discussions respectful and constructive. Abusive, defamatory, or illegal comments will be removed. News18 may disable any comment at its discretion. By posting, you agree to our Terms of Use and Privacy Policy. Read More
India.com
22-07-2025
- India.com
From Volcanoes To Tribes: 10 Wild Facts That Make Andaman And Nicobar The Coolest Place In India
The Andaman and Nicobar Islands are more than just a group of beautiful islands in the Bay of Bengal. They are a treasure trove of nature, history, and culture. Whether you are planning a trip or simply curious, these islands hold stories and secrets that make them truly unique. Here are 10 facts about the Andaman and Nicobar Islands you must know before you explore this paradise. 1. A Remote Tropical Paradise with Rich Biodiversity The islands are home to dense forests, coral reefs, and rare wildlife. From the colorful coral gardens under the water to the tropical birds and animals on land, the islands are a haven for nature lovers. The Mahatma Gandhi Marine National Park near Wandoor is a famous spot for snorkeling and spotting marine life. 2. Indigenous Tribes Living in Harmony with Nature The islands are home to some of the world's oldest indigenous tribes like the Jarawa, Sentinelese, and Onge. These communities have lived in isolation for thousands of years, maintaining their traditional ways. Visitors are reminded to respect their privacy and the laws protecting their habitats. 3. Cellular Jail – The Historic Prison of Freedom Fighters Known as Kala Pani, the Cellular Jail in Port Blair is a symbol of India's struggle for independence. Many freedom fighters were imprisoned here during British rule. Today, it stands as a museum and memorial, offering guided tours that reveal stories of courage and sacrifice. 4. Stunning Beaches That Rival Any Tropical Destination Radhanagar Beach on Havelock Island is often listed among the best beaches in Asia. With its white sand and clear blue water, it is a perfect spot to relax or watch a sunset. Other popular beaches include Elephant Beach, Vijaynagar Beach, and Lalaji Bay. 5. Adventure Activities for Every Explorer Whether it's scuba diving, snorkeling, trekking, or sea kayaking, the islands offer something for every adventure seeker. Neil Island and Havelock Island are especially famous for underwater adventures where vibrant coral reefs and exotic fish await. 6. The Unique Mangrove Ecosystem of the Islands Mangroves cover large parts of the islands' coastlines. These coastal forests protect the islands from erosion and provide breeding grounds for fish and birds. The mangrove creeks near Diglipur are peaceful spots where you can enjoy boat rides and birdwatching. 7. The Tropical Climate That Keeps the Islands Green Year-Round Unlike many other beach destinations, the Andaman and Nicobar Islands enjoy a tropical climate that keeps the forests lush and the seas warm throughout the year. This makes it a great destination no matter the season, though the winter months from October to May are most popular for travel. 8. The Islands Are Geographically Unique Formed millions of years ago, the islands sit on an underwater mountain range called the Andaman Sea Ridge. This explains their dramatic landscapes of hills, beaches, and coral reefs. They also lie near a major tectonic plate boundary, which causes occasional earthquakes and undersea activity. 9. A Melting Pot of Cultures and Communities Besides the native tribes, the islands have settlers from mainland India, Bengal, Tamil Nadu, and even Nicobar islands. This mix has created a unique culture visible in local festivals, cuisine, and languages. Seafood dishes with coconut and spices dominate the island menus. 10. Limited Connectivity for Pristine Preservation The islands maintain strict controls on tourism and development to protect their fragile environment. Only a certain number of visitors are allowed at a time, and certain areas remain restricted. This balance helps keep the islands pristine and their wildlife safe. Why Explore Andaman and Nicobar Islands? The Andaman and Nicobar Islands are not just another tropical getaway. They offer an experience where history meets nature and adventure meets tranquility. The Cellular Jail tells tales of resilience, while the coral reefs invite you to discover hidden underwater worlds. From the peaceful mangroves to vibrant markets, the islands invite every traveler to slow down and immerse in their charm. What To See and Do Visit Port Blair's Cellular Jail and attend the evening light and sound show for a moving history lesson. Relax at Radhanagar Beach and soak in the stunning sunset views. Dive or snorkel at Havelock Island to see colorful corals and marine life. Take a boat ride through mangrove forests near Diglipur and enjoy birdwatching. Explore the limestone caves in Baratang Island formed over thousands of years. Travel Tips Plan your visit between October and May for the best weather. Respect local rules especially near tribal reserves. Book accommodations early during peak season as the islands have limited hotels. Carry sunscreen and mosquito repellent. Try local seafood but stay hydrated and eat from trusted places. Final Thoughts The Andaman and Nicobar Islands are a jewel in India's crown — a place where every corner tells a story and every beach offers peace. Whether you want to dive deep into history, explore vibrant underwater life, or just relax on pristine shores, these islands have it all. So pack your bags, respect the islands' natural beauty, and prepare to be amazed.
The Hindu
13-07-2025
- Health
- The Hindu
Accessing Jarawa one of the oldest surviving hunter-gather tribes for census will not be tough: Experts
Conducting census among the six main indigenous tribes in the Andaman and Nicobar Islands will not be tough as the Central Government has already made contact and are running several welfare measures for these tribes, said physician Ratan Chandra Kar, speaking exclusively to The Hindu. The Government has formally announced that the 16th Census of India will take place in two phases, with the reference dates set as March 1, 2027, for most of the country and October 1, 2026. This census will include the first nationwide caste enumeration since 1931. Dr. Kar who played an important role in providing healthcare to the Jarawa tribe of the Andaman Islands began his work with the tribes in 1998, combating a devastating measles outbreak in 1999 that threatened the tribe's existence. The Jarawas are one of the world's oldest surviving tribes and are mostly hunter-gatherers, living in nomadic bands of 40-50 individuals. 'Currently the population of the Jarawa tribe has grown from 260 to 647 which is good steady growth,'' he said. Explaining the population growth trajectory of the tribe he said that in the month of September 1998, Jarawas met the local population. 'At that time, their population was 260 and as of today, their population has increased to 647. This increase has been possible and achieved on account of the Central Government's successful attempt to establish meaningful contact with them, winning their trust and developing friendly relations,' he said. Dr. Kar added that the Government has been able to provide sustained, targeted, and proactive medical care as and when required and because of this 'we have successfully countered all such occurrences of new diseases/infections (measles, malaria, conjunctivitis, mumps, hepatitis, and others) without any significant mortality. The policy decision taken to provide proactive and preventive medical coverage without interfering in their own medicinal practices has led to this achievement of increase in population which currently stands at 647,' he explained, adding that this trust will ensure that officials get full access during the up-coming census activity. Tribes in Andaman and Nicobar Islands are the Great Andamanese, Onge, Jarawa, Sentinelese, Nicobarese, and Shompen. Speaking about the impact of Andaman Trunk Road (ATR) in terms of access and intrusion in the tribal settlement he said that the best chance of survival for the Jarawas is ``we leave them alone with minimal intervention''. 'The tribe doesn't suffer from any lifestyle disease including heart problems, diabetes, hypertension etc, deliveries are almost always normal and normal life span is up to 50 plus now. We only need to offer modern medical care as a supplement to their own system of natural medicine and immunity,' he said. Dr. Kar has suggested that the ATR while being the lifeline impacting few lakhs of people staying in South Andaman, Middle Andaman and North Andaman, brings Jarawas much closer to the local population. 'Regulating traffic movement through ATR will ensure that the balance of ensuring convenience of local population and keeping Jarawas at bay from local population. This is vital for their survival,' he added.
Hindustan Times
02-07-2025
- General
- Hindustan Times
Van Dhan Vikas Kendra set up for Onge tribe in Little Andaman to promote self-sustainability
Port Blair, The Andaman and Nicobar Islands administration has set up a Van Dhan Vikas Kendra for the Onge tribe at Dugong Creek under Pradhan Mantri Janjati Adivasi Nyay Maha Abhiyan to make them self-sustainable through coconut-based products. Van Dhan Vikas Kendra set up for Onge tribe in Little Andaman to promote self-sustainability Located in Little Andaman, Dugong Creek — about 93 km from Port Blair — is a reserved area for the Onge tribe and is currently home to only 140 people, including 74 males and 66 females. Speaking to PTI here on Wednesday, Chief Secretary Chandra Bhushan Kumar said the VDVK initiative builds upon the traditional practices of the Onge community, a Particularly Vulnerable Tribal Group. "As a part of their tradition, the Onge tribe has been making coconut-based products for years in their reserved forest areas. We just gave a value addition to their product, including virgin coconut oil , and helped them in creating a market through VDVK," Kumar said. "We are paying special attention to maintaining the integrity and purity of their products in their habitat. It's a learning process for us also, but I am happy to share that Onge tribe wholeheartedly welcomed our small steps towards their welfare. We are also in the process of making a short documentary of this initiative," Kumar said. The VDVK is registered as a society under the Societies Registration Act, 1860. "The VDVK is poised to revolutionise livelihoods through sustainable enterprise and economic empowerment of the Onge," a senior tribal welfare department official said. Initially, 56 members of the Onge tribe will be part of VDVK, focusing on producing value-added coconut-based products, including high-quality copra and cold-pressed coconut oil. To empower the community, Onge VDVK members have received extensive training in copra processing, coconut oil extraction, and the use of specialised machinery. "Essential toolkits, including coconut peelers, steel containers, manual de-husking tools, and knives, have been provided. A state-of-the-art cold-press coconut oil extraction and filter machine have also been installed at Dugong Creek, enabling premium-quality production," a senior administrative official said. The Directorate of Tribal Welfare serves as the nodal agency, with Andaman Adim Janjati Vikas Samiti as the State Implementation Agency and Directorate of Rural Development as the training partner, ensuring comprehensive support for this transformative initiative, he said. In another historic achievement, nine students from the Onge community passed this year's CBSE class 10 examination for the first time. "This milestone reflects the unwavering commitment and dedication of the Onge students and the UT Administration for the welfare, safety, and well-being of the tribes of these islands," the official said. SN MNB This article was generated from an automated news agency feed without modifications to text.
