Sri Vijaya Puram, October 23: Two geological sites in the Andaman and Nicobar Islands have entered UNESCO’s World Heritage Tentative List, marking a step towards possible international heritage recognition for the archipelago’s volcanic landscapes, limestone formations and distinctive biodiversity. The inclusion covers the Baratang Karst-Mud Volcano Complex and the Andaman Subduction Volcanic Group, which includes Barren Island and Narcondam Island.
The development places the two sites among three new Indian entries on the tentative list, alongside the cultural and archaeological landscape of Sirpur in Chhattisgarh.
India’s Permanent Delegation submitted the proposals to UNESCO on September 28, 2026. Their subsequent inclusion on the tentative list represents an initial stage in the process of seeking World Heritage recognition rather than a final inscription.
The Baratang Karst-Mud Volcano Complex is known for its limestone caves and natural mud volcano formations. These features offer evidence of geological processes that have shaped the islands over time, making the area significant for understanding the region’s natural evolution.
The Andaman Subduction Volcanic Group brings together two islands with distinct geological and ecological characteristics.
Barren Island is home to India’s only confirmed active volcano, while Narcondam Island is recognised for its distinctive biodiversity, including endemic species. Together, the islands represent important elements of the archipelago’s volcanic and natural heritage.
Lieutenant Governor Dr. Dinesh Sharma welcomed the development, describing it as an important step towards international recognition of the islands’ natural assets.
He said the inclusion highlighted the significance of the region’s geological formations and biodiversity, while creating opportunities to strengthen scientific documentation and conservation initiatives.
Dr. Sharma also linked the development to the Centre’s efforts under Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Union Home Minister Amit Shah to conserve the islands’ natural heritage and expand tourism opportunities.
According to the Lieutenant Governor, the recognition could support the development of sustainable and responsible tourism while maintaining environmental conservation as a priority.
He expressed confidence that coordination among government departments and relevant institutions would help advance efforts to secure eventual World Heritage inscription for the two sites.
The tentative-list inclusion brings renewed attention to the conservation of the islands’ geological and ecological features. However, both nominations would still need to progress through UNESCO’s subsequent evaluation and inscription procedures before receiving World Heritage status.
For the Andaman and Nicobar Islands, the immediate significance lies in the international recognition of their potential heritage value and the opportunity to strengthen conservation planning around these natural sites.
