A & N Islands living laboratory of biodiversity

Andaman & Nicobar Islands are a ‘living laboratory of biodiversity’ and are crucial for the environmental and economic security of India, said Union Minister of State (Independent Charge) for Science & Technology, Earth Sciences, Dr Jitendra Singh.

During his recent visit to the union territory, the Minister interacted with the scientists and officials at the Regional Centre of the Zoological Survey of India (ZSI) at Sri Vijaya Puram.

“Andaman & Nicobar Islands represent a ‘living laboratory of biodiversity’, where cutting-edge science must go hand in hand with conservation and sustainable livelihoods,” Singh said. He emphasised the need for greater integration of scientific research with public policy, conservation planning, and community awareness. “Robust scientific institutions are central to achieving India’s environmental goals and realising the full potential of the Blue Economy in a sustainable manner,” the Minister added. He noted that institutions like ZSI play a critical role in generating authentic scientific data that guides national policies on biodiversity conservation, climate resilience, and ocean-based economic growth.