Senior Congress leader Rahul Gandhi has intensified his criticism of the proposed Great Nicobar Island development project, alleging that the government is misrepresenting it as a national security initiative while it actually serves private commercial interests. In a 16-minute video shared on social media platform X, he claimed the project could lead to large-scale ecological damage and questioned its transparency and intent.

The remarks come amid ongoing political debate over one of India’s most ambitious infrastructure proposals, estimated at around ₹90,000 crore. The Centre, however, maintains that the project is aimed at strengthening India’s strategic presence in the Indo-Pacific region and boosting maritime trade through a major transshipment hub.

Video claims and allegations

In his video message, Rahul Gandhi alleged that the government has framed the Great Nicobar Island Project as a defence-linked initiative, while its actual purpose is to enable commercial development in a sensitive ecological zone. He also urged citizens to oppose the project and sign a public petition.

He further claimed that the project could impact forests, coral reefs, and indigenous tribal communities living on the island. According to him, the scale of proposed development raises serious environmental and social concerns that have not been adequately addressed.Environment and tribal concerns

The Congress leader said the project violates provisions of the Forest Rights Act and could threaten the livelihood and land rights of tribal communities in the region. He also alleged that large-scale tree felling and ecological disruption may occur if the plan is implemented in its current form.

He referred to his recent visit to the Andaman and Nicobar Islands, stating that the region’s biodiversity, including coral reefs and dense forests, must be protected from large-scale construction activities.

Strategic importance of project

The Great Nicobar Island Project is planned as a multi-component infrastructure initiative, including an international transshipment port, airport, power plant, and a new township. The government argues that it will enhance India’s maritime capabilities and strengthen its position along key global shipping routes.

Officials have previously stated that the project is designed to improve trade connectivity, support defence infrastructure, and boost economic activity in the region. The Centre has rejected allegations that the initiative is driven by private interests.

Political debate intensifies

The issue has become a point of political confrontation, with opposition leaders questioning environmental clearances and project approvals. Rahul Gandhi has been one of the most vocal critics in recent weeks, raising concerns over transparency and consultation with local communities.

The government, on the other hand, continues to defend the project as a long-term strategic investment aligned with India’s national security and economic growth priorities in the Indo-Pacific region.

India’s journey in the electricity sector over the past decade is one of the most significant development success stories in modern history. In 2016, nearly 300 million people—about 23% of the population—were living without access to electricity. Fast forward to 2026, this number has dramatically reduced to approximately 7 million people, or just 0.5% of the population.

This massive transformation highlights the strong and sustained efforts of the government, combined with large-scale infrastructure development, policy reforms, and a focused push toward rural electrification and renewable energy.

A decade of historic change

In 2016, electricity access in India was still uneven. Many rural and remote regions lacked proper grid connectivity, and millions of households depended on kerosene lamps, firewood, or diesel generators for basic lighting needs.

 over the next ten years, India underwent a rapid electrification revolution. Government-led initiatives ensured that electricity reached even the most remote villages, transforming the lives of millions of people.

By 2026, India has achieved near-universal electrification, with only a small fraction of the population still awaiting reliable access. This achievement reflects one of the fastest and largest energy access expansions in the world.

 Government-led rural electrification drive

One of the key drivers of this transformation has been the government’s massive rural electrification programs. Focused schemes targeted villages that were previously unconnected or under-served. Thousands of villages were brought onto the national grid, and last-mile connectivity became a major priority. Special attention was given to tribal regions, hilly terrains, and geographically difficult areas. This effort ensured that electricity was no longer a privilege of urban centers but a basic facility available across the country.

 Impact on rural life and development

The expansion of electricity access has fundamentally changed rural India. Villages that once struggled with darkness after sunset now enjoy stable lighting and improved living conditions.

Key improvements include:

• Children can study at night, improving education outcomes
• Small businesses operate longer hours, boosting income
• Farmers use electric pumps for irrigation, increasing productivity
• Healthcare centers function more effectively with reliable power
• Digital services and mobile connectivity have expanded significantly

These changes have contributed to inclusive development and reduced rural-urban disparity.

Infrastructure expansion and modernization

The government also invested heavily in strengthening India’s power transmission and distribution infrastructure. New substations, upgraded grids, and improved distribution systems have made electricity supply more reliable and efficient.

Smart monitoring systems and digital technologies have been introduced to reduce losses and improve management of power networks. These improvements have helped ensure that electricity is not just available but also more stable and efficient across most regions.

Renewable energy powering progress

India’s rapid expansion of renewable energy sources, especially solar and wind power, has played a crucial role in improving electricity access. Solar microgrids and rooftop solar systems have brought electricity to remote areas where traditional grid expansion was difficult or costly. These systems have been particularly useful in isolated villages and small settlements. India’s commitment to clean energy has not only supported electrification but also contributed to environmental sustainability and reduced carbon emissions.

Economic growth and job creation

The expansion of the electricity sector has also supported India’s economic growth. Large-scale infrastructure projects in generation, transmission, and renewable energy have created millions of jobs across the country.

From engineers and technicians to construction workers and maintenance staff, the sector has become a major source of employment. Additionally, improved electricity access has boosted small industries, agriculture, and digital entrepreneurship in rural areas, contributing to stronger local economies.

Remaining challenges

Despite this remarkable progress, a small number of people—around 7 million in 2026—still remain without reliable electricity access.

These remaining gaps are mostly due to:

• Extremely remote geographical locations
• Difficult terrain and infrastructure challenges
• Dispersed population in certain regions
• Maintenance and supply consistency issues

However, the government continues to actively work on these challenges through targeted policies, improved technology, and renewed investment.

A model of inclusive development

India’s electricity journey is widely seen as a model of large-scale inclusive development. The reduction from 300 million people without electricity in 2016 to just a few million in 2026 reflects strong policy execution and long-term planning.

This transformation has helped bridge the gap between urban and rural India, ensuring that development benefits reach every section of society. It also demonstrates how infrastructure development can directly improve quality of life, education, healthcare, and economic opportunities.

The progress made by India in the electricity sector between 2016 and 2026 is nothing short of extraordinary. Reducing the number of people without electricity from 23% of the population to just 0.5% represents a major milestone in the country’s development journey. This achievement reflects the government’s strong commitment to universal electrification, infrastructure growth, and sustainable energy expansion.

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