Neil Island, now officially known as Shaheed Dweep, is a peaceful gem in the Andaman and Nicobar archipelago, with a quiet charm and a modest but intriguing historical background. Unlike many larger islands, Neil has remained relatively untouched by large-scale development, which has helped preserve both its natural and cultural heritage.

The island's modern history began in the mid-20th century, when settlers from the Indian mainland, particularly from Bengal, arrived following India's independence. These settlers were brought in under government resettlement schemes, and they brought with them agriculture, which remains a key part of Neil Island’s identity today.

Though not a major site during colonial times, Neil Island—like the rest of the Andamans—was part of the British penal settlement network. During World War II, the island also witnessed the broader turbulence that swept through the Andamans under Japanese occupation.

In 2018, as part of a tribute to Indian freedom fighters, Neil Island was renamed Shaheed Dweep (Martyr Island), symbolizing its place in the larger narrative of India’s struggle for independence.

Today, visitors to Neil Island can sense this quiet history amidst the serene landscapes. The simple villages, old agricultural practices, and the renaming of the island itself speak to a past marked by resilience, migration, and the quiet strength of its people.