"Island Transformation: ₹3.6kcr Initiative to Develop Lakshadweep into Tourist Destination"

The Indian government has outlined a comprehensive infrastructure upgrade plan, allocating over ₹3,600 crores, aimed at developing the Lakshadweep islands into a thriving tourist hub. According to sources familiar with the development, the plan includes the enhancement of ports, construction of peripheral roads, and establishment of beachfront facilities, among other initiatives.

Key highlights of the plan include the development of port facilities at Androth, Kalpeni, and Kadamat islands, along with the construction of beachfront and peripheral roads at Kadamat Island (East), Agatti Island (East), and Kavaratti Island.

Funding for these projects and others will be sourced from the Sagarmala scheme, designed for port development, as confirmed by a senior government official.

A total of 13 projects have been identified across the 36 Lakshadweep islands, spread over 32 square kilometers and situated 220-440 kilometers off the Kerala coast in the Arabian Sea.

The initiative aligns with the government's emphasis on bolstering domestic tourism, as highlighted by Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman in her interim budget speech. She emphasized the importance of enhancing port connectivity, tourism infrastructure, and amenities on India's islands, including Lakshadweep, to stimulate employment generation.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi's recent visit to Lakshadweep further underscored the government's commitment to the islands' development. However, the visit stirred controversy after derogatory comments about Modi were made by three Maldivian deputy ministers, sparking outrage on social media.

Despite its natural beauty, Lakshadweep currently lacks sufficient infrastructure and amenities to accommodate large numbers of tourists. The ambitious plan seeks to address these shortcomings and position Lakshadweep as a premier tourist destination.

Sagarmala, launched in July 2015, plays a pivotal role in the country's port-led development strategy. The scheme focuses on leveraging India's extensive coastline, navigable waterways, and strategic maritime trade routes.

Under Sagarmala, projects with high social impact but low financial returns are eligible for funding support. According to Minister of Ports, Shipping, and Waterways Sarbananda Sonowal, numerous projects have already been completed or are underway, with significant investments earmarked for further development under the scheme.

ET