Minister Highlights Biodiversity Importance in Andaman & Nicobar Islands
During a recent visit to the Andaman & Nicobar Regional Centre of the Zoological Survey of India (ZSI) at Sri Vijaya Puram, Union Minister of State Dr. Jitendra Singh underscored the critical role of the islands’ biodiversity for both environmental and economic security. He emphasized that the rich biodiversity found here serves as a vital component of India’s ecological and policy framework.
Dr. Singh referred to the Andaman & Nicobar Islands as a “living laboratory of biodiversity”. He stressed the importance of integrating innovative scientific research with efforts toward conservation and the enhancement of sustainable livelihoods. The Minister highlighted that institutions like ZSI provide essential scientific data that help shape national policies aimed at biodiversity conservation, climate resilience, and fostering ocean-based economic growth.
Significant Contributions of the ZSI
Upon arrival, Dr. Singh was welcomed by Dr. C. Sivaperuman, Scientist-F and Officer-in-Charge of the center, who provided insights into ZSI’s mission, ongoing research initiatives, and its significant contributions to understanding and preserving the unique fauna of the islands. He noted that the ZSI has played a pivotal role in taxonomy, molecular systematics, and biodiversity assessments, and has been crucial in building scientific capacity in the region.
Founded in 1977, the Andaman & Nicobar Regional Centre of ZSI has been a cornerstone of scientific research on tropical island biodiversity for over five decades. It boasts nearly 90 completed research programs across various faunal groups, leading to the publication of 85 books and upwards of 850 research papers in both national and international journals, thereby enriching the biodiversity knowledge base of India.
The ZSI Museum: A Hub for Education and Outreach
Dr. Singh also explored the ZSI Museum, a notable educational and tourist attraction, housing approximately 3,500 specimens from 22 different faunal groups. He learned about the museum’s critical role in public education and outreach activities, which attract between 75,000 and 100,000 visitors annually, including students, researchers, and tourists. The Minister expressed a keen interest in the exhibition of curated reference collections and type specimens representing the islands’ endemic, endangered, and threatened species.
During his visit, it was revealed that ZSI scientists have discovered more than 20 new species, including the Narcondam Tree Shrew, and have documented nearly 900 new faunal records from the Andaman & Nicobar Islands, further establishing the global significance of the region’s biodiversity.
Strengthening Marine Ecosystem Research
Dr. Singh was briefed on ZSI’s role as the nodal centre for India’s first National Coral Reef Research Institute (NCRRI), which aims to enhance research and monitoring of coral reefs within Indian waters. He noted the importance of such specialized institutions in safeguarding fragile marine ecosystems and supporting informed marine governance.
In his interactions with scientists and staff, the Minister highlighted the necessity for scientific research to be more closely aligned with public policy, conservation strategies, and community awareness initiatives. He remarked that robust scientific institutions are essential for achieving India’s environmental objectives and maximizing the potential of the Blue Economy sustainably.
Concluding his visit, Dr. Singh expressed appreciation for the comprehensive work being accomplished at the Centre, thanking Dr. Sivaperuman and his team for their informative presentation and museum tour. He described the experience as “extremely informative and educative,” emphasizing that well-organized zoological collections not only enhance scientific insight but also elevate public awareness of India’s diverse and irreplaceable biodiversity.
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