The Andaman and Nicobar Islands, known for their rich biodiversity and pristine ecosystems, are increasingly under threat from the growing menace of poaching. Despite strict laws under the Wildlife Protection Act, 1972, and regular maritime surveillance by the Coast Guard and Navy, illegal hunting and trafficking continue to thrive, targeting rare species on both land and in surrounding waters. The issue has become one of the most persistent ecological challenges in the islands, raising alarm among conservationists and policymakers alike.
The islands’ geography makes them particularly vulnerable. With more than 500 scattered landmasses and vast stretches of ocean, monitoring every entry point is nearly impossible. Poachers often exploit these gaps, sneaking into Indian waters under the cover of darkness. Over the years, authorities have reported frequent intrusions by foreign vessels, particularly from neighboring countries, who come in search of high-value species. Local involvement also persists, with some island communities drawn into poaching due to economic hardships and limited livelihood opportunities.
Among the most targeted species is the sea cucumber, a marine animal critical for recycling nutrients in the seabed. These creatures are banned from trade under Indian law, yet their high demand in Southeast Asian markets, where they are considered a delicacy and are used in traditional medicine, makes them a lucrative catch for traffickers. Similarly, sea turtles and their eggs, prized for meat and shells, continue to be hunted despite their protected status. On land, spotted deer and wild pigs are frequently poached for meat, with reports of local black markets sustaining the trade.
The economic pull of poaching is matched by its ecological cost. Removing species like sea cucumbers disrupts the natural balance of marine ecosystems, threatening coral reefs and fisheries. Hunting deer and turtles reduces population resilience and weakens the delicate biodiversity of the islands. Each loss reverberates across the food chain, destabilizing ecosystems that are already vulnerable to climate change, habitat loss, and human activity.
Law enforcement agencies have stepped up their efforts in recent years. Coast Guard and Navy patrols regularly intercept foreign poachers, seizing boats and equipment while the police conduct raids on illegal meat markets within the islands. Courts have also issued strict sentences in some cases to deter repeat offenders. Yet, despite these measures, the cycle of poaching continues, underscoring the profitability and persistence of the illegal trade. In certain confrontations, poachers have resisted arrests, leading to dangerous clashes at sea, which highlights both the scale of the problem and the risks faced by enforcement personnel.
Beyond enforcement, addressing poaching requires long-term solutions. Experts argue that awareness campaigns, alternative livelihood options, and greater cooperation between local communities and authorities are essential. For many island residents, dependence on fishing and limited economic opportunities create a difficult balance between survival and sustainability. Unless these challenges are addressed, enforcement alone may not suffice.
The stakes are high. Tourism, fisheries, and community livelihoods in the Andaman and Nicobar Islands depend heavily on the health of the environment. If poaching continues unchecked, it risks undermining not just biodiversity but also the social and economic fabric of the islands. Protecting these fragile ecosystems is ultimately about more than saving species; it is about preserving the natural heritage that defines the Andaman and Nicobar Islands for generations to come.
