Some Glimpses of Lakshadweep

The Laccadive, Minicoy, and Aminidivi Islands—now known as Lakshadweep—are a collection of islands in the Arabian Sea. It is one of the union territories of India and consists of 36 islands, out of which only 10 are inhabited. In Sanskrit, the word "Lakshadweep" means "a hundred thousand islands." Here are some key points of information about Lakshadweep : 

1. Geographical Location : Lakshadweep is situated off the southwestern coast of India. It lies between 8° and 12° North latitude and 71° and 74° East longitude.

2. Islands : Agatti, Amini, Andrott, Bitra, Chetlat, Kadmat, Kalpeni, Kavaratti, Kiltan, and Minicoy are among the ten inhabited islands that make up the archipelago, which has 36 islands altogether. Lakshadweep's administrative centre is Kavaratti.

3. Natural Beauty : Lakshadweep is known for its pristine white sandy beaches, crystal-clear turquoise waters, and vibrant coral reefs. The islands offer opportunities for various water sports activities like snorkeling, scuba diving, kayaking, and fishing.

4. Biodiversity : The coral reefs of Lakshadweep are rich in marine life, making it a paradise for divers and snorkelers. Numerous marine animals, such as vibrant fish, turtles, rays, and even dolphins, can be seen in the area. The islands also host numerous bird species and are an important breeding ground for sea turtles.

5. Population : Lakshadweep has a relatively small population, with approximately 70,000 people as of 2021. The majority of the population belongs to the Muslim community, and the official language is Malayalam.

6. Culture and Language : The predominant culture of Lakshadweep reflects its maritime heritage. The people are primarily Muslims, and the official language is Malayalam. The traditional dance forms of the islands include Lava dance, Kolkali, Parichakali, and Kolkali.

7. Economy : The economy of Lakshadweep is primarily based on fishing, coconut cultivation, and tourism. The islands are known for their beautiful beaches, coral reefs and marine biodiversity, attracting tourists from all over the world. Coir production, boat building, and handicrafts also contribute to the local economy.

8. Administration and Tourism : Lakshadweep is a union territory of India, administered by an administrator appointed by the President of India. The islands have been attracting tourists who seek a peaceful getaway in a tropical paradise, and the tourism industry plays a vital role in the local ecomnomy.

9. Ecotourism Initiatives : The administration of Lakshadweep has been focusing on sustainable and eco-friendly tourism development. Efforts are made to preserve the natural environment and protect the fragile ecosystem of the coral reefs.

10. Connectivity : Lakshadweep is accessible by air and sea. Agatti Island has an airport that connects to mainland India, and regular flights operate from Kochi in Kerala. Ships also operate between Kochi and the islands, providing transportation and supplies. The main mode of transportation within Lakshadweep is by boats and ferries.

11. Marine Protected Areas : The waters surrounding Lakshadweep are designated as a Marine National Park and are protected under the Wildlife Protection Act. These measures aim to safeguard the diverse marine life and ensure sustainable tourism practices.

12. Local Handicrafts : The people of Lakshadweep are skilled in traditional crafts such as coir twisting, shellcraft, and coral artifacts. These handicrafts are popular among tourists as souvenirs.

Lakshadweep is a popular tourist destination due to its picturesque landscapes, pristine beaches, and vibrant marine life. It offers opportunities for water sports like snorkeling, scuba diving, and kayaking, allowing visitors to explore the enchanting underwater world. It's important to note that the above information is accurate as of my knowledge cutoff in September 2021, and there may have been some developments or changes since then.

References : 1. https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Lakshadweep