Population of Andaman and Nicobar

Context:

A national-level report by IIMAD (International Institute of Migration and Development) and Population Foundation of India (PFI) gives medium-variant population projections through 2051. These are projections, not a new Census count; the source report and its Appendix Table 8.1 provide the underlying totals:

Lakshadweep

• Population projected to rise from 67,642 (2016) → 74,194 (2051)
• Growth: ~9.68%

Andaman & Nicobar Islands

• Population projected to rise from 3,98,310 (2016) → 4,21,135 (2051)
• Growth: ~5.73%

Overall: Moderate growth, but significant because these are ecosystem-sensitive, small island territories.

Gender-wise Projections

Lakshadweep

• Male population: 34,716 → 37,785
• Female population: 32,926 → 36,319

Andaman & Nicobar

• Females: 1,84,843 → 1,94,996
• Males: 2,13,467 → 2,26,139

Why Population Growth in Islands Matters?

• Ecological Fragility
  • Lakshadweep = coral atolls → very low carrying capacity
  • A&N = biodiversity hotspot + tribal reserves (Jarawa, Sentinelese, Nicobarese)
• Even small population increases can cause:
  • Increased waste generation
  • Coastal erosion
  • Pressure on coral reefs
  • Loss of mangroves

• Disaster Vulnerability
  • Islands are exposed to:
  • Sea-level rise
  • Storm surges
  • Tsunamis
  • Cyclones
• Infrastructure Demand
  • Water scarcity
  • Waste management
  • Transport and energy systems
• Tribal Protection Concerns (A&N)
  • Growth in non-tribal population may:
    • Threaten tribal cultures
    • Increase disease risk
    • Intensify resource competition