In a significant move aimed at bolstering tourism, the Indian government has announced a comprehensive infrastructure upgrade plan for the Lakshadweep islands, with a budget allocation exceeding ₹3,600 crores. Sources familiar with the initiative revealed that the plan encompasses various development projects, including port enhancements, construction of peripheral roads, and establishment of beachfront facilities.
Key components of the plan entail the development of port facilities at Androth, Kalpeni, and Kadamat islands, in addition to constructing beachfront and peripheral roads at Kadamat Island (East), Agatti Island (East), and Kavaratti Island.
Funding for these endeavours, among others, will be drawn from the Sagarmala scheme, specifically designed for port development, as confirmed by a senior government official.
A total of 13 projects have been identified across the 36 Lakshadweep islands, spanning 32 square kilometers and situated 220-440 kilometers off the Kerala coast in the Arabian Sea.
The initiative aligns with the government’s focus on enhancing domestic tourism, as articulated by Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman during her interim budget speech. She emphasised the importance of improving port connectivity, tourism infrastructure, and amenities on India’s islands, including Lakshadweep, to drive employment generation.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s recent visit to Lakshadweep reiterated the government’s commitment to the islands’ development. However, the visit was marred by controversy following derogatory comments about Modi made by three Maldivian deputy ministers, sparking outrage on social media.
Despite its natural allure, Lakshadweep currently lacks adequate infrastructure and amenities to accommodate a large influx of tourists. The ambitious plan seeks to rectify these deficiencies and position Lakshadweep as a premier tourist destination.
The Sagarmala scheme, launched in July 2015, plays a crucial role in India’s port-led development strategy. Focusing on leveraging the country’s extensive coastline, navigable waterways, and strategic maritime trade routes, Sagarmala prioritises projects with high social impact but low financial returns for funding support. Minister of Ports, Shipping, and Waterways Sarbananda Sonowal noted that numerous projects have already been completed or are underway, with significant investments earmarked for further development under the scheme.
