The Nicobar Islands, a group of 24 tropical Islands located in the Bay of Bengal Sea contain one of the richest and unique assemblages of flora and fauna. Very little information exists on the ecology and distribution of most faunal groups, including the amphibians and reptiles, the taxonomic group for this proposed study.

Due to the influence from the outside world and misguided development plans the Islands are undergoing a rapid change in the landscape characteristics. This proposed study will address questions pertaining to species distribution in the Islands. Results will be disseminated to the relevant government departments and will be followed up through non-governmental organisation for appropriate action.