Lakshadweep is a union territory of India. It is an archipelago of 36 islands in the Arabian Sea off India’s southwest coast. Eleven of them, including Agatti and Kavaratti, are inhabited. Even though it has the smallest land area of any Indian state, it has a huge lake area of 4,200 km2 and national seas that cover 20,000 km2.
The islands have beaches like Suheli and Baliyapani that haven’t been touched by humans, which adds to their natural beauty. Lakshadweep has more than just beautiful scenery and sandy beaches. It is also habitat to 3 Marine Wildlife Conservation Reserves and the Dr. Salim Ali Bird Sanctuary, which makes it an important place for birds to migrate. Lakshadweep is a great place for nature lovers and people who care about protecting the environment because it has a wide range of plants, animals, and sea life.
Recently, the beautiful islands of Lakshadweep witnessed a transformative moment as the Prime Minister, Shri Narendra Modi, inaugurated, dedicated, and laid the foundation stone for various development projects worth over Rs 1150 crores. These projects, spanning technology, energy, water resources, healthcare, and education, aim to propel Lakshadweep into a new era of progress and prosperity.
Now, the Kochi-Lakshadweep Islands Submarine Optical Fibre Connection project is real. It was first addressed in the 2020 Independence Day speech.
This project aims to revolutionise the communication infrastructure by giving internet speeds that exceed 100 times the current rate, increasing from 1.7 Gbps to 200 Gbps.
The improved connectivity could accelerate advancements in telemedicine, e-governance, educational initiatives, digital banking, and digital literacy.
Low Temperature Thermal Desalination (LTTD) Plant at Kadmat
The LTTD plant at Kadmat can produce 1.5 lakh litres of clean drinking water every day, addressing the challenge of minimal groundwater availability on coral islands.
The project not only enhances water availability but also strengthens tourism capacity, creating opportunities for local employment.
Functional Household Tap Connections (FHTC) in Agatti and Minicoy Islands
Ensuring functional tap connections in all households of Agatti and Minicoy Islands under the Jan Jeevan Mission enhances the quality of life for the islanders.
Improved water infrastructure contributes to the sustainable development of Lakshadweep.
Solar Power Plant at Kavaratti
The first-ever battery-backed solar power project in Lakshadweep, located in Kavaratti, aims to reduce dependency on diesel-based power generation.
This solar initiative aligns with efforts to protect the fragile ecology of the region.
Foundation Stone Laid for Primary Health Care Facility and Five Model Anganwadi Centres
The foundation stone laid for the renovation of the Primary Health Care facility and the construction of five model Anganwadi Centres demonstrates a commitment to healthcare and child welfare.
Empowering the Youth through Education
The Prime Minister’s initiatives include distributing laptops to students and bicycles under Beti Bachao Beti Padhao, aiming to bridge educational gaps.
Steps towards opening institutes of higher education, arts and science institutions in Andrott and Kadmat islands, and a polytechnic institute in Minicoy indicate a focus on youth empowerment.
Boosting Tourism and International Recognition
Lakshadweep is gaining international recognition, as evidenced by its hosting of the G20 meeting.
The Swadesh Darshan scheme is drafting a destination-specific master plan for Lakshadweep, emphasizing its potential as a prime destination for cruise tourism.
Economic Transformation through Seafood Export and Seaweed Farming
Lakshadweep contributes to India’s effort to increase its share in the global seafood market, exporting local Tuna fish to Japan.
The exploration of seaweed farming presents economic possibilities while emphasizing the need to protect the fragile marine ecosystem.
Government’s Commitment to Ease of Living and Development
The Prime Minister assures the people of Lakshadweep that the government will continue taking steps to ensure ease of living, ease of travel, and ease of doing business in the region.
The goal is to make Lakshadweep a significant player in the creation of a developed and empowered India.
Deep in the Indian Ocean, where blue waves lap against coral reefs, Lakshadweep is becoming a symbol of development. The launch of revolutionary initiatives recently shows a dedication to the islands’ overall development. With its innovative technology and environmentally friendly infrastructure, Lakshadweep is set to become a development model that will provide a better future for its citizens and welcome visitors from all over the globe to experience its unmatched beauty.
The country is watching with interest as Lakshadweep steers towards a Viksit Bharat (developed Bharat), wanting to see this heavenly sanctuary flourish in the embrace of innovation and long-term progress. The legend of Lakshadweep transcends its geographical confines and is now seen as an uplifting tale of fortitude, advancement, and the seemingly endless possibilities that arise from the harmonious coexistence of nature and technology.
MV Kavaratti, MV Amindivi, MV Minicoy, MV Arabian Sea, MV Lakshadweep Sea and MV Bharath Seema
FAQ’s
Q. What is the capital of Lakshadweep?
A. The capital of Lakshadweep is Kavaratti.
Q. Why is Lakshadweep known as a coral island?
A. Lakshadweep is called a coral island because it is made up of beautiful coral reefs that have formed over a long time. These reefs contribute to the unique and stunning natural beauty of the islands.
Q. How many islands are there in Lakshadweep?
A. There are a total of 36 islands in Lakshadweep.
Q. Where is Lakshadweep island located?
A. Lakshadweep Island is located in the Arabian Sea, off the southwestern coast of India.
Q. How can one reach Lakshadweep?
A. To reach Lakshadweep, one can take a flight or a ship from mainland India. There are airports and ports connecting Lakshadweep to various cities, making it accessible for travellers.
Q. What makes Lakshadweep unique in terms of its natural beauty?
A. Lakshadweep is known for its untouched beaches like Suheli and Baliyapani, contributing to its natural beauty. The islands also house three Marine Wildlife Conservation Reserves and the Dr. Salim Ali Bird Sanctuary.
Q. What recent developments have taken place in Lakshadweep?
A. Recently, the Prime Minister, Shri Narendra Modi, inaugurated, dedicated, and laid the foundation stone for various development projects worth over Rs 1150 crores, covering technology, energy, water resources, healthcare, and education.
Q. Is Lakshadweep gaining international recognition?
A. Yes, Lakshadweep recently hosted the G20 meeting, and under the Swadesh Darshan scheme, a destination-specific master plan is being drafted, highlighting its potential for cruise tourism.
Q. How is Lakshadweep contributing to economic transformation?
A. Lakshadweep is contributing to India’s seafood market by exporting local Tuna fish to Japan. The exploration of seaweed farming presents additional economic possibilities.
Q. How is Lakshadweep becoming a symbol of development and progress?
A. Recent initiatives, including technological advancements and environmentally friendly projects, are positioning Lakshadweep as a model for development and progress, offering a promising future for its residents, and attracting visitors to experience its unparalleled beauty.
