The following projects have been implemented in Andaman and Nicobar Islands :

i) R&D-cum-Demonstration Centre for Prawn Culture
ii) Rejuvenation of Corals in Sisostris Bay

R&D-cum-Demonstration Centre for Prawn Culture :

The project on Prawn Culture is being implemented in 10 hectares of land acquired at Dolleygunj near Port Blair in Andamans. The ponds are designed on a scientific basis, and prawn seeds obtained from mainland stocked and fed with indigenously developed feed. Three electrically operated aerators are used to oxygenate the pond filled with sea water from adjoining Bay.

The production target of 2 tonne/ha/crop fixed for improved extensive method of culture was achieved in September, 1993. Similarly, the production target of 1 tonne/ha/crop by extensive method was achieved in June, 1994. Techniques developed under this project are being standardised. Training of fishermen of A&N Islands is envisaged through A&N Administration.

Rejuvenation of corals in Andaman islands

The A&N Islands have unique coral ecosystems. Luxurious growth of corals are present at Nicobar and in a few areas of Andaman Islands. Due to human interventions in the past only a few remains of corals around Port Blair are now present. In order to rejuvenate corals in the area a project has been initiated to utilise scientific/engineering methods to develop coral reefs around Port Blair. Under this project, technically designed structures will be deployed in the affected area to facilitate settlement of corals. After standardising suitable size and type of structure (made of concrete or natural boulders) for attracting coral settlement, the techniques will be used to cover more areas in Andaman and Lakshadweep islands. The project is being implemented by ANCOD with the help of the National Institute of Ocean Technology (NIOT), Madras.