c The first-of-its-kind centre, costing Rs 120 crore, will act as the nodal and monitoring agency for coral reef research in the country.

The Ministry of Environment, Forest, and Climate Change will set up the institute at Chidiyatapu in South Andaman, aiming to strengthen research, conservation, and management of coral reefs.

"It will be an advanced coral reef research, conservation, and management centre," said Sivaperuman, officer-in-charge of the Zoological Survey of India's Andaman & Nicobar regional centre.

Focusing on the importance of coral reefs, Sivaperuman said, "Coral reefs play a pivotal role as they provide natural coastal protection against storms, working as a cushion against waves. The reefs help prevent loss of life and properties in the coastal region," while addressing a workshop on Coastal and Marine Biodiversity of Island Ecosystems on Friday evening.

Sivaperuman also announced that a QR code-based system will be introduced at the ZSI Museum in Sri Vijay Puram, allowing visitors to digitally access photos and information about the displayed species.

Kailash Chandra, former director of ZSI, said the Andaman and Nicobar Islands are among India’s four biodiversity hotspots, hosting a wide variety of both native and migratory species.

Expressing concern over rising sea levels and increasing temperatures, Chandra pointed out the impact of climate change on marine habitats, especially coral reefs.

He added, "Our government is actively encouraging biodiversity enthusiasts by providing opportunities to name newly discovered species. The government is providing all assistance to interlink agriculture and island biodiversity in the Andaman and Nicobar Islands."

The three-day workshop, which concluded on Saturday, saw participation from 20 personnel across various agencies, including the Indian Coast Guard, INS Jarawa, Indian Army, and Andaman & Nicobar Police.