A breakthrough study by marine archaeologists has identified the 'Sandalwood and Shell' Route, a previously unknown maritime trade network that linked the Andaman Islands to mainland Southeast Asia as early as 500 BCE. Using submerged site mapping and chemical analysis of recovered artifacts, researchers found evidence of specialized trade in high-value aromatic woods and ornamental sea shells. The discovery suggests that indigenous islanders were active participants in a sophisticated regional economy long before the arrival of larger empires.
The research team utilized autonomous underwater vehicles (AUVs) to locate a series of submerged landing sites where pottery fragments and stone anchors were discovered. These findings indicate that the route was a vital corridor for the exchange of technological knowledge, including early boat-building techniques and bead-making processes. The study highlights the importance of the Bay of Bengal as a hub of prehistoric interaction, challenging the traditional view of the Andaman Islands as isolated refugia during the Iron Age.