Question

Consider the following statements:

1. The tribal population in the Andaman Islands is increasing.

2. The Lakshadweep islands have many rivers.

3. The Andaman and Nicobar Islands have a rich marine life.

• A. 3 only
• B. 1 and 2 only
• C. 2 and 3 only
• D. All are correct

Answer 1

Answer:

A. 3 only

• The tribal population in the Andaman Islands is increasing: This statement is incorrect. The indigenous tribal populations of the Andaman Islands (including groups like the Great Andamanese, Onge, Jarawa, and Sentinelese) have actually been declining over time. Many of these tribes are classified as particularly vulnerable tribal groups (PVTGs) and their populations have decreased significantly due to diseases, habitat loss, and the impacts of outside contact.

• The Lakshadweep islands have many rivers: This statement is incorrect. Lakshadweep is a group of coral atolls with very small land areas. Being coral islands with limited land mass and elevation, Lakshadweep does not have any rivers. Freshwater is a scarce resource on these islands, with residents relying mainly on rainwater harvesting and groundwater.

• The Andaman and Nicobar Islands have a rich marine life: This statement is correct. The Andaman and Nicobar Islands are surrounded by the Bay of Bengal and the Andaman Sea, hosting one of the richest marine ecosystems in the world. These islands are known for their coral reefs, mangrove ecosystems, diverse fish species, sea turtles, dugongs, dolphins, and other marine life. The waters around these islands are considered biodiversity hotspots.