Why in the news?

• Barren Islands of the Andaman and Nicobar experiences minor volcanic eruptions.

Barren Island

• Location: Situated in the Andaman Sea, about 135 km northeast of Port Blair, Andaman & Nicobar Islands (India).
• Characteristics:
  • India’s only active volcano.
  • Part of the Volcanic Arc associated with the subduction of the Indian Plate beneath the Burmese Plate along the Andaman–Sumatra trench.
  • Type: Stratovolcano- Composite cone, built from lava flows & pyroclastic deposits.
  • Lava is mainly basaltic, flowing into the sea during major events.
  • The island is mostly barren due to volcanic activity, but parts support scrub vegetation and goat population (introduced).
  • Rich marine biodiversity around: coral reefs, manta rays, reef sharks, and migratory species thrive in nutrient-rich waters.
  • Declared a Restricted Area; special permits required for visits.
  • It is included in the North & Middle Andaman administrative district.