India, March 8 -- Two of the three gram (village) panchayats in the area earmarked for the ambitious project in the Great Nicobar Island have consented to the development area notification, but highlighted that amenities and utilities being built should benefit locals and that fair compensation should be provided.

The Tribal Council of Little Nicobar and Great Nicobar has, however objected to the diversion of certain areas currently reserved for tribals.

The gram panchayats were responding to a letter from the Andaman and Nicobar Administration sent on January 1 that sought views of gram panchayats in Great Nicobar on notification of the project area as 'Great Nicobar Island Development Area' for the holistic master plan for Great Nicob...