The demand for a significant financial push to strengthen public infrastructure in the Andaman and Nicobar Islands has intensified, with Member of Parliament Bishnu Pada Ray once again urging the Central Government to enhance the Union Territory’s budget and approve a one-time special grant of ₹5,000 crore. The request, raised through formal communications to the Prime Minister, Home Minister and Finance Minister, highlights persistent gaps in capital funding despite rising developmental needs across the archipelago.
According to the MP, allocations under both the Revised Estimates and Budget Estimates continue to fall short, particularly under the Capital Head, where higher investment is critical for executing major works. The proposed special grant, he said, is essential for implementing projects that island communities have long awaited, rural and urban road improvements, bridge repairs, municipal upgrades, community infrastructure, and construction of protection walls in vulnerable zones.
The communication notes that several core civic and rural infrastructure systems are under strain, with municipalities and Panchayati Raj Institutions struggling to maintain basic assets. The Municipal Council of Sri Vijayapuram, expanded from 18 to 24 wards in 2015, reportedly continues to face financial limitations, leaving several newly added areas underdeveloped. Similarly, 70 Gram Panchayats face challenges in maintaining roads, drains and essential utilities.
Ray also flagged water scarcity as a growing concern, emphasising the need for new storage structures, dams, and replacement of ageing pipelines. He argued that funding gaps have slowed progress even as the region’s tourism potential and population needs continue to rise.
While the Ministry of Home Affairs previously forwarded his request to the UT Administration, the MP noted that the Administration’s response did not include any proposal for the ₹5,000 crore special grant, despite acknowledging the requirement for increased allocations under both Revenue and Capital Heads. The absence of a concrete proposal, he said, has further delayed critical upgrades.
Given the islands’ remote geography, limited local resources and increasing pressure on existing civic systems, the MP stressed that enhanced budgetary support from the Centre is vital for sustainable development. He has urged the government to boost allocations in the upcoming RE 2025–26 and BE 2026–27 cycles and to sanction the special grant in phases, with clear directives for an action plan to ensure timely utilisation.
Ray stated that residents across the islands remain hopeful that the Centre will extend robust financial support to address longstanding infrastructure deficits and accelerate development in the region.
