Major General Dhruv Katoch (retired) highlighted the strategic significance of the Great Nicobar Project, emphasizing its potential to enhance India’s military presence in the Six Degree Channel. This location is crucial as it is projected to be a major route for 90% of the world’s container traffic in the future. Additionally, he mentioned that the Zojila Tunnel breakthrough will ensure year-round connectivity between Ladakh, Kargil, and Srinagar, benefiting the Indian Army.
The Great Nicobar Project is envisioned not only as a military expansion initiative but also as a trans-shipment port, according to Major General Katoch. He pointed out the strategic importance of the Andaman and Nicobar Islands, serving as a link between Myanmar and Indonesia through the Ten Degree Channel. Moreover, he emphasized the significance of the Six Degree Channel, a vital shipping lane connecting the Indian Ocean to the South China Sea and the Pacific Ocean.
Major General Katoch stressed the importance of maintaining a strong military presence in the Six Degree Channel to safeguard India’s interests in ensuring a free and open Indo-Pacific. He highlighted the critical role of this channel in global trade, with 90% of container traffic expected to pass through it. Additionally, he underscored the necessity of the Great Nicobar trans-shipment port in reducing India’s reliance on Sri Lanka and Singapore for maritime trade routes.
