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Lakshadweep: Difference between revisions
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{{Redirect|Laccadives|the subgroup|Laccadive Islands}} | {{Redirect|Laccadives|the subgroup|Laccadive Islands}} | ||
{{Short description|Union territory of India}} | {{Short description|Union territory of India}}{{Use dmy dates|date=December 2015}} | ||
{{Use dmy dates|date= | {{Use Indian English|date=December 2015}} | ||
{{Use Indian English|date= | {{Infobox settlement | ||
{{Infobox | | name = Lakshadweep Islands | ||
| name = Lakshadweep | | native_name = | ||
| native_name | | type = [[Union territory]] | ||
| image_skyline = {{multiple image | |||
| type = [[Union territory]] | | border = infobox | ||
| | | total_width = 280 | ||
| | | image_style = border:1; | ||
| | | perrow = 1/2/2 | ||
| | | image1 = Lakshadweep - Agatti Islands.jpg | ||
| | | image2 = Bangaram Island, Lakshadweep 20160325- DSC1780.jpg | ||
| | | image3 = Viringili.jpg | ||
| image4= City palaca main entrance.JPG | |||
| image5= A beach side resort at Kadmat Island, Lakshadweep.jpg | |||
}} | |||
| image_caption = Clockwise from top: Agatti Island, [[Viringili (Maliku Atoll)|Viringili]], beachside resort on [[Kadmat Island]], City palaca, Bangaram Island | |||
| image_blank_emblem = [[File:Lakshadweep_Banner.png|125px]] | |||
| image_caption = | |||
| image_blank_emblem = | |||
| | |||
| blank_emblem_type = [[Emblem of Lakshadweep|Emblem]] | | blank_emblem_type = [[Emblem of Lakshadweep|Emblem]] | ||
| image_map = IN-LD.svg | | image_map = IN-LD.svg | ||
| Line 36: | Line 32: | ||
| seat = [[Kavaratti]] | | seat = [[Kavaratti]] | ||
| leader_title1 = [[List of Administrators of Lakshadweep|Administrator]] | | leader_title1 = [[List of Administrators of Lakshadweep|Administrator]] | ||
| leader_name1 = [[Praful Khoda Patel]]<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://lakshadweep.gov.in/about-lakshadweep/whos-who/| | | leader_name1 = [[Praful Khoda Patel]]<ref>{{Cite web|title=Who's Who | Lakshadweep | India |date=26 May 2021 |publisher=U.T. Administration of Lakshadweep |url=https://lakshadweep.gov.in/about-lakshadweep/whos-who/ |url-status=live }}</ref> | ||
| leader_title2 = [[Lakshadweep (Lok Sabha constituency)|MP]] | | leader_title2 = [[Lakshadweep (Lok Sabha constituency)|MP]] | ||
| leader_name2 = [[Mohammed Faizal P. P.]] ([[Nationalist Congress Party|NCP]]) | | leader_name2 = [[Mohammed Faizal P. P.]] ([[Nationalist Congress Party|NCP]]) | ||
| Line 50: | Line 46: | ||
| demographics_type1 = Languages<ref>{{cite web|url=http://nclm.nic.in/shared/linkimages/NCLM50thReport.pdf |page=109 |title=50th Report of the Commissioner for Linguistic Minorities in India |date=16 July 2014 |access-date=6 November 2016 |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160708012438/http://nclm.nic.in/shared/linkimages/NCLM50thReport.pdf |archive-date= 8 July 2016 }}</ref> | | demographics_type1 = Languages<ref>{{cite web|url=http://nclm.nic.in/shared/linkimages/NCLM50thReport.pdf |page=109 |title=50th Report of the Commissioner for Linguistic Minorities in India |date=16 July 2014 |access-date=6 November 2016 |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160708012438/http://nclm.nic.in/shared/linkimages/NCLM50thReport.pdf |archive-date= 8 July 2016 }}</ref> | ||
| demographics1_title1 = Official Languages | | demographics1_title1 = Official Languages | ||
| demographics1_info1 = [[ | | demographics1_info1 = [[Malayalam]], [[English language|English]] | ||
| demographics1_title2 = Spoken | | demographics1_title2 = Spoken | ||
| demographics1_info2 = [[Jeseri]], [[Maldivian language|Dhivehi]] | | demographics1_info2 = [[Jeseri]], [[Maldivian language|Dhivehi]] | ||
| demographics_type2 = Ethnicity | | demographics_type2 = Ethnicity | ||
| demographics2_title1 = Ethnic groups | | demographics2_title1 = Ethnic groups | ||
| demographics2_info1 = | | demographics2_info1 = ≈84% [[Malayali]]<br />≈15% [[Mahls]] | ||
| demographics2_title2 = Year of data | | demographics2_title2 = Year of data | ||
| timezone1 = [[Indian Standard Time|IST]] | | timezone1 = [[Indian Standard Time|IST]] | ||
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| blank2_name_sec1 = Largest city | | blank2_name_sec1 = Largest city | ||
| blank2_info_sec1 = [[Andrott]] | | blank2_info_sec1 = [[Andrott]] | ||
| blank3_name_sec1 = HDI {{nobold|( | | blank3_name_sec1 = HDI {{nobold|(2019)}} | ||
| blank3_info_sec1 = {{increase}} 0. | | blank3_info_sec1 = {{increase}} 0.751 ({{color|#090|High}}) • [[List of Indian states and territories by Human Development Index|4th]] | ||
| blank6_name_sec1 = Literacy | | blank6_name_sec1 = Literacy | ||
| blank6_info_sec1 = 91.85% | | blank6_info_sec1 = 91.85% | ||
| Line 77: | Line 73: | ||
|region_type= <!-- Type of state or region (default is State) --> | |region_type= <!-- Type of state or region (default is State) --> | ||
| country = <!-- e.g., India --> | | country = <!-- e.g., India --> | ||
| flag = [[File: | | flag = | ||
| emblem = [[File:Banner of Lakshadweep.png|60px|left]] [[Emblem of Lakshadweep]] | |||
| nickname = | | nickname = | ||
| motto = | | motto = | ||
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| dance = | | dance = | ||
| instrument = | | instrument = | ||
| bird = [[File:Anous stolidus by Gregg Yan 01.jpg|50px|left]] [[Brown noddy]] (Anous stolidus) | | bird = [[File:Anous stolidus by Gregg Yan 01.jpg|50px|left]] [[Brown noddy]] (Anous stolidus) | ||
| fish = | | fish = [[File:Bep chaetodon falcula.jpg|50px|left]] [[Butterfly fish]] (Chaetodon falcula) | ||
| butterfly = <!-- or | insect = --> | | butterfly = <!-- or | insect = --> | ||
| flower = | | flower = | ||
| fruit = | | fruit = | ||
| tree = [[File:Breadfruit Tree.jpg|50px|left]] [[Bread fruit]] (Artocarpus incisa) | | tree = [[File:Breadfruit Tree.jpg|50px|left]] [[Bread fruit ]] (Artocarpus incisa) | ||
| plant = | | plant = | ||
| vegetable = | | vegetable = | ||
| Line 111: | Line 106: | ||
}} | }} | ||
'''Lakshadweep''' ({{IPAc-en|l|ə|k|ˈ|ʃ|ɑː|d|w|iː|p}}) | '''Lakshadweep''' ({{IPAc-en|l|ə|k|ˈ|ʃ|ɑː|d|w|iː|p}}), also known as '''Laccadives''' ({{IPAc-en|'|l|æ|k|@|d|iː|v|z}}), is a [[union territory]] of [[India]]. It is an [[archipelago]] of 36 islands in the [[Arabian Sea|Arabian sea]], located {{convert|200|to|440|km|mi|abbr=on}} off the [[Malabar Coast]]. | ||
The name ''Lakshadweep'' means "one [[lakh]] islands" in [[Malayalam]], though the Laccadive Islands are just one part of the archipelago of no more than a hundred islands. [[Malayalam]] is [[Languages with official status in India|official]] as well as the widely spoken [[First language|native language]] in the territory.<ref name=":0">{{cite book|title=Sura's Year Book 2006|url=https://books.google.com/books?id=Fz2WDD8sB0MC&q=jeseri%2C+lakshadweep&pg=PA250|year=2006|isbn=978-81-7254-124-8|page=250}}</ref><ref>{{Cite encyclopedia|title=Lakshadweep |encyclopedia=The Columbia Encyclopedia |edition=Sixth |year=2008 |url=http://www.encyclopedia.com/topic/Lakshadweep.aspx |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20100127104251/http://www.encyclopedia.com/topic/Lakshadweep.aspx |archive-date=27 January 2010 }}</ref> The islands form the [[List of states and union territories of India by population|smallest union territory of India]] and their total surface area is just {{convert|32|km2|sqmi|abbr=on}}. The [[lagoon]] area covers about {{convert|4200|km2|sqmi|abbr=on}}, the [[territorial waters]] area {{convert|20000|km2|sqmi|abbr=on}} and the [[exclusive economic zone]] area {{convert|400000|km2|sqmi|abbr=on}}. The region forms a single [[Indian district]] with 10 subdivisions. [[Kavaratti]] serves as the capital of the Union Territory and the region comes under the [[jurisdiction]] of [[Kerala High Court]]. The islands are the northernmost of the '''Lakshadweep'''–'''Maldives'''–'''Chagos''' group of islands, which are the tops of a vast undersea mountain range, the [[Chagos-Laccadive Ridge|Chagos-Lakshadweep Ridge]].<ref>{{cite journal |title=Origin and compensation of Chagos-Laccadive ridge, Indian ocean, from admittance analysis of gravity and bathymetry data |date=1991-07-31 |doi=10.1016/0012-821X(91)90119-3 |bibcode=1991E&PSL.105...47A |volume=105 |issue=1–3 |journal=Earth and Planetary Science Letters |pages=47–54 |last1=Ashalatha |first1=B. |last2=Subrahmanyam |first2=C. |last3=Singh |first3=R.N. |df=dmy-all }}</ref> The Lakshadweep originally consisted of 36 islands; however, due to the Parali 1 island being submerged in water due to sea erosion, 35 islands remain.<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.livemint.com/Science/QFLIaXhV8NswaWkdcdyisL/Uninhabited-Lakshadweep-island-Parali-I-vanishes-4-others-s.html|title=Uninhabited Lakshadweep island Parali I vanishes, 4 others shrinking fast: study|last=PTI|date=2017-09-06|website=Mint|language=en|access-date=2021-04-07}}</ref> | |||
Ten of the islands are inhabited. At the [[2011 Indian census]], the population of the Union Territory was 64,473. The majority of the indigenous population is Muslim and most of them belong to the [[Shafi'i|Shafi school]] of the Sunni sect. The islanders are ethnically similar to the [[Malayali]] people of the nearest [[Indian state]] of [[Kerala]]. Most of the population speaks [[Malayalam]] with [[Maldivian language| | As the islands have no aboriginal inhabitants, scholars have suggested different histories for the settlement of these islands. Archaeological evidence supports the existence of human settlement in the region around 1500 BCE. The islands have long been known to sailors, as indicated by an anonymous reference from the first century CE to the region in [[Periplus of the Erythraean Sea]]. The islands were also mentioned in the Buddhist [[Jataka tales|Jataka stories]] of the sixth century BCE. [[Islam]] was established in the region when Muslims arrived around the seventh century. During the medieval period, the region was ruled by the [[Chera dynasty]], the [[Chola dynasty]], and finally the [[Kolathunadu|Kingdom of Kannur]]. The Catholic [[Portuguese India|Portuguese]] arrived around 1498 but were expelled by 1545. The region was then ruled by the Muslim house of [[Arakkal kingdom|Arakkal]], who were vassals to the [[Kolathiri]] Rajas of [[Kannur]], followed by [[Tipu Sultan]]. On his death in 1799, most of the region passed on to the [[British Raj|British]] and with their departure, the Union Territory was formed in 1956. | ||
Ten of the islands are inhabited. At the [[2011 Indian census]], the population of the Union Territory was 64,473. The majority of the indigenous population is Muslim and most of them belong to the [[Shafi'i|Shafi school]] of the Sunni sect. The islanders are ethnically similar to the [[Malayali]] people of the nearest [[Indian state]] of [[Kerala]]. Most of the population speaks [[Malayalam]] with [[Maldivian language|Dhivehi]] being the most spoken language in [[Minicoy]] island. [[Jeseri]] dialect is spoken in the inhabited islands of archipelago, namely [[Amindivi]] and [[Laccadive Islands]], with an exception of the southernmost island of [[Minicoy]],<ref name=":1">{{cite book|title=Lakshadweep Pradesikabhasha Nighandu (Translation: Lakshadweep Regional Language Dictionary), Editor: Dr. Koyammakoya M.|isbn=978-81-922822-9-9|last1=Kōyammakkōya|first1=Eṃ|year=2012}}</ref> where the [[Mahl people|Mahl dialect]] is used.<ref name="Cain">{{cite book |last= Cain|first= B.D. |title= Dhivehi (Maldivian): A Synchronic and Diachronic Study (Ph.D. dissertation)|publisher= Cornell University |year= 2000 }}</ref> The [[Arabi Malayalam script|Ponnani script]] of Malayalam was used to write [[Jeseri]] until the [[British Raj]].<ref name="Subramoniam"/> The culture is almost similar to that of [[Mappila]]s in the nearest mainland state of [[Kerala]].<ref name="cult"/> The islands are served by an [[Agatti Aerodrome|airport]] on [[Agatti Island]]. The main occupation of the people is [[fishing]] and coconut cultivation, with [[tuna]] being the main item of export. | |||
==History== | ==History== | ||
===Ancient | ===Ancient history=== | ||
One of the earliest references to the region is by an anonymous author in the [[Periplus of the Erythraean Sea]].<ref name=thefreelibrary>{{cite web|title=Marine investigations in the Lakshadweep Islands, India.|url=http://www.thefreelibrary.com/Marine+investigations+in+the+Lakshadweep+Islands,+India.-a065537229|publisher=thefreelibrary.com|access-date=1 August 2012|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20130927040024/http://www.thefreelibrary.com/Marine+investigations+in+the+Lakshadweep+Islands,+India.-a065537229|archive-date=27 September 2013|url-status=live|df=dmy-all}}</ref> There are references to the control of the islands by the [[Chera Dynasty|Cheras]] in the [[Sangam literature|Sangam]] ''[[Patiṟṟuppattu]]''. Local traditions and legends attribute the first settlement on these islands to the period of [[Cheraman Perumal]], the last Chera king of Kerala.<ref>“Lakshadweep & Its People 1992-1993” Planning Department, Govt. Secretariat, Lakshadweep Administration, Kavaratti. Page: 12.</ref> The oldest inhabited islands in the group are [[Amini, India|Amini]], [[Kalpeni]] [[Andrott]], [[Kavaratti]], and [[Agatti]]. | One of the earliest references to the region is by an anonymous author in the [[Periplus of the Erythraean Sea]].<ref name=thefreelibrary>{{cite web|title=Marine investigations in the Lakshadweep Islands, India.|url=http://www.thefreelibrary.com/Marine+investigations+in+the+Lakshadweep+Islands,+India.-a065537229|publisher=thefreelibrary.com|access-date=1 August 2012|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20130927040024/http://www.thefreelibrary.com/Marine+investigations+in+the+Lakshadweep+Islands,+India.-a065537229|archive-date=27 September 2013|url-status=live|df=dmy-all}}</ref> There are references to the control of the islands by the [[Chera Dynasty|Cheras]] in the [[Sangam literature|Sangam]] ''[[Patiṟṟuppattu]]''. Local traditions and legends attribute the first settlement on these islands to the period of [[Legend of Cheraman Perumals|Cheraman Perumal]], the last Chera king of Kerala.<ref>“Lakshadweep & Its People 1992-1993” Planning Department, Govt. Secretariat, Lakshadweep Administration, Kavaratti. Page: 12.</ref> The oldest inhabited islands in the group are [[Amini, India|Amini]], [[Kalpeni]] [[Andrott]], [[Kavaratti]], and [[Agatti]]. | ||
===Buddhist and Islamic influences=== | ===Buddhist and Islamic influences=== | ||
Archaeological evidence suggests that [[Buddhism]] prevailed in the region during the fifth and sixth centuries CE.<ref name=thefreelibrary/>{{dead link|date=March 2021}} According to popular tradition, [[Islam]] was brought to Lakshadweep by [[Sheikh Ubaidullah|Ubaidullah]] in 661 CE. His grave is located on the island of [[Andrott]].<ref>{{cite web|title=History|url=http://lakshadweep.nic.in/KL_History.html|publisher=lakshadweep.nic.in|access-date=1 August 2012|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120514235511/http://lakshadweep.nic.in/KL_History.html|archive-date=14 May 2012|url-status=dead|df=dmy-all}}</ref> | Archaeological evidence suggests that [[Buddhism]] prevailed in the region during the fifth and sixth centuries CE.<ref name=thefreelibrary/>{{dead link|date=March 2021}} The local legends attribute the history of [[Islam]] here to the [[Legend of Cheraman Perumals]], the last [[Chera]] king of [[Kerala]], who left for pilgrimage from the island of [[Dharmadom]] near [[Kannur]] to [[Mecca]].<ref name="ld">{{Cite web|url=https://lakshadweep.gov.in/about-lakshadweep/history/|title=History of Lakshadweep|website=lakshadweep.gov.in|publisher=Government of India}}</ref> However, the legend is not substantiated.<ref name="ld"/> According to popular tradition, [[Islam]] was brought to Lakshadweep by [[Sheikh Ubaidullah|Ubaidullah]] in 661 CE. His grave is located on the island of [[Andrott]].<ref>{{cite web|title=History|url=http://lakshadweep.nic.in/KL_History.html|publisher=lakshadweep.nic.in|access-date=1 August 2012|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120514235511/http://lakshadweep.nic.in/KL_History.html|archive-date=14 May 2012|url-status=dead|df=dmy-all}}</ref> | ||
=== | ===Medieval period=== | ||
During the 11th century, the islands came under the rule of the Late [[Cholas]]<ref name=thefreelibrary/> and subsequently the [[Kolathunadu|Kingdom of | During the 11th century, the islands came under the rule of the Late [[Cholas]] when the [[Cholas]] conquered parts of [[Kerala]]<ref name=thefreelibrary/><ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.kerala.cc/keralahistory/index34.htm |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20010321010740/http://www.kerala.cc/keralahistory/index34.htm |url-status=dead |archive-date=21 March 2001 |title=The Buddhist History of Kerala |publisher=Kerala.cc |access-date=25 September 2013}}</ref><ref>{{cite book |author=A Sreedhara Menon |title=A Survey Of Kerala History |url=https://books.google.com/books?id=FVsw35oEBv4C&pg=PA166 |access-date=9 August 2012 |date=1 January 2007 |publisher=DC Books |isbn=978-81-264-1578-6 |page=138}}</ref> and subsequently the islands came under the [[Kolathunadu|Kingdom of Kannur]].<ref name=britannica>{{cite web|title=Lakshadweep|url=http://www.britannica.com/EBchecked/topic/328296/Lakshadweep/46340/History|publisher=Encyclopædia Britannica, Inc.|access-date=2 August 2012|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20130228225201/http://www.britannica.com/EBchecked/topic/328296/Lakshadweep/46340/History|archive-date=28 February 2013|url-status=live|df=dmy-all}}</ref> The islands had an important role in the [[Indian Ocean trade]] during the medieval period as it was located in the principal trade route which connected the [[Middle East]] with [[Malabar Coast]], [[Sri Lanka|Ceylon]], and [[Southeast Asia]] ([[Indonesia]] and [[Malaysia]]).<ref name="sl"/> | ||
===Modern | ===Modern period=== | ||
In the 16th century, the Portuguese ruled the seas between | In the 16th century, the Portuguese ruled the seas between [[Ormus]] and the [[Malabar Coast]] and south to [[Sri Lanka|Ceylon]]. As early as 1498 when the [[Vasco da Gama]] arrived at [[Kozhikode]] during the [[Age of Discovery]],<ref name="sl">{{cite book |author=Charles Corn |year=1999 |orig-year=First published 1998 |title=The Scents of Eden: A History of the Spice Trade |publisher=Kodansha America |pages=4–5 |isbn=978-1-56836-249-6}}</ref> they took control of the archipelago (called Laquedivas by them), later on to exploit [[coir]] production, until the islanders expelled them in 1545. In the mid 16th century all the inhabited islands of the Lakshadweep were conferred as ''[[jagir]]'' on the ruling family of the [[Cannanore Kingdom]] (Arakkal Kingdom) by the [[Chirakkal Royal Family|Chirakkal]] or [[Kolattiri Raja]] in order to grant protection from the [[Portuguese Empire|Portuguese]].<ref>[http://www.ebooksread.com/authors-eng/william-wilson-hunter/the-imperial-gazetteer-of-india-volume-8-tnu/page-46-the-imperial-gazetteer-of-india-volume-8-tnu.shtml The imperial gazetteer of India (Volume 8)]</ref> The [[Arakkal kingdom]] had jurisdiction over [[Laccadive Islands|Laccadive]] and [[Amindivi]] groups of islands, in addition to the city of [[Kannur]].<ref name="Malabar">{{cite book |last1=Sreedhara Menon |first1=A. |title=''Kerala Charitram'' |year=2007 |publisher=DC Books |location=Kottayam |isbn=978-8126415885 |edition=2007 |url=https://books.google.com/books?id=FAlXPgAACAAJ&q=%E0%B4%95%E0%B5%87%E0%B4%B0%E0%B4%B3+%E0%B4%9A%E0%B4%B0%E0%B4%BF%E0%B4%A4%E0%B5%8D%E0%B4%B0%E0%B4%82}}</ref> The islands are also mentioned in great detail in the stories of the Arab traveller [[Ibn Batuta]].<ref>{{Cite journal|title=South Asia: Journal of South Asian Studies: Volume 2: Sources towards a history of the Laccadive Islands |journal=South Asia: Journal of South Asian Studies |volume=2 |pages=130–150 |date=1979 |doi=10.1080/00856407908722989 |last1=Forbes |first1=Andrew D.W. }}</ref> | ||
The [[Aminidivi]] group of islands ( | The [[Aminidivi]] group of islands (Amini, Kadmat, Kiltan, Chetlath, and Bitra) came under the rule of [[Tipu Sultan]] in 1787.<ref name="ml1951"/> They were passed to British control after the [[Third Anglo-Mysore War]] and were attached to [[Kasaragod district|Kasaragod Taluk]] of [[South Canara]].<ref name="ml1951">{{cite book | ||
| author = Government of Madras | year=1953 | |||
| title= 1951 Census Handbook- South Canara District | publisher=Madras Government Press | |||
| url= http://lsi.gov.in:8081/jspui/bitstream/123456789/6023/1/7746_1951.pdf | |||
}}</ref> The rest of the islands (Agatti, Andrott, Minicoy, Kavaratti, Kalpeni, and Bangaram) remained under the [[suzerainty]] of the [[Ali Raja|Arakkal family]] of [[Arakkal Kingdom|Kannur]] in return for a payment of annual tribute.<ref name="Logan">{{Cite book|title=Malabar Manual (Volume-I)|last=Logan|first=William|publisher=Asian Educational Services|year=2010|isbn=9788120604476|location=New Delhi}}</ref> The British took over the administration of those islands for nonpayment of arrears. These islands were attached to the [[Malabar district]] of the [[Madras Presidency]] during the [[British Raj]].<ref>{{cite book|last=Logan|first=William|title=Malabar Manual|year=1887|publisher=Asian Education Services|location=New Delhi|isbn=978-81-206-0446-9|page=2|url=https://books.google.com/books?id=9mR2QXrVEJIC&q=Palghat&pg=PA2|access-date=15 November 2015|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160112082021/https://books.google.com/books?id=9mR2QXrVEJIC&lpg=PP1&pg=PA2#v=onepage&q=Palghat&f=false|archive-date=12 January 2016|url-status=live|df=dmy-all}}</ref> Later it was placed under [[Kozhikode]] [[Tehsil|Taluk]].<ref name="census | |||
_1951">{{Cite book|title=1951 census handbook - Malabar district|publisher=Government of Madras|year=1953|location=Chennai|url=http://lsi.gov.in:8081/jspui/bitstream/123456789/6425/1/20493_1951_MAL.pdf}}</ref> | |||
===Independent India=== | ===Independent India=== | ||
On 1 November 1956, during the [[States Reorganisation Act|reorganization of Indian states]], the Lakshadweep islands were separated from [[Malabar District]] and organised into a separate union territory for administrative purposes. The new territory was called Laccadive, Minicoy, and Amindivi Islands before adopting the Lakshadweep name on 1 November 1973.{{ | On 1 November 1956, during the [[States Reorganisation Act|reorganization of Indian states]], the Lakshadweep islands were separated from [[Malabar District]] and organised into a separate union territory for administrative purposes.<ref name="src_1956">{{Cite web|url=https://legislative.gov.in/sites/default/files/A1956-37.pdf|title=The States Reorganisation Act, 1956|website=legislative.gov.in|publisher=Government of India}}</ref> The new territory was called Laccadive, Minicoy, and Amindivi Islands before adopting the Lakshadweep name on 1 November 1973.<ref name="ld"/> The headquarters of the new union territory remained at [[Kozhikode]] for nearly a decade until 1964.<ref name="clt">{{Cite book|title=District Census Handbook -Laccadive, Minicoy, and Amindivi Islands (1971) - Village Directory|last=P. M. Nair|publisher=Administrator and Ex-Officio Director of Census Operations, Laccadive, Minicoy, and Amindivi Island|year=1979|location=Kavaratti& Government Printing Press, Kozhikode|pages=2|url=http://lsi.gov.in:8081/jspui/bitstream/123456789/7315/1/26141_1971_LAC.pdf}}</ref> In 1964, the seat of [[List of administrators of Lakshadweep|administrator]] of the islands was shifted to [[Kavaratti]].<ref name="clt"/> | ||
To safeguard India's vital [[shipping lane]]s to the [[Middle East]], and the growing relevance of the islands in security considerations, an [[Indian Navy]] base, [[INS Dweeprakshak]], was commissioned on Kavaratti island.<ref name=hindu-lakshadweep>{{cite news|url=http://www.thehindu.com/news/states/kerala/article3370886.ece|title=Navy commissions full-scale station in Lakshadweep| | To safeguard India's vital [[shipping lane]]s to the [[Middle East]], and the growing relevance of the islands in security considerations, an [[Indian Navy]] base, [[INS Dweeprakshak]], was commissioned on Kavaratti island.<ref name=hindu-lakshadweep>{{cite news|url=http://www.thehindu.com/news/states/kerala/article3370886.ece|title=Navy commissions full-scale station in Lakshadweep|work=The Hindu|date=1 May 2012|access-date=9 May 2012|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120503220537/http://www.thehindu.com/news/states/kerala/article3370886.ece|archive-date=3 May 2012|url-status=dead|df=dmy-all}}</ref> | ||
==Geography== | ==Geography== | ||
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{| class="wikitable" | {| class="wikitable" | ||
|- | |- | ||
![[Atoll]]/[[Reef]]/[[Bank (topography)|Bank]]<br />('' | ![[Atoll]]/[[Reef]]/[[Bank (topography)|Bank]]<br />(''Alternative name'') !! Type !! Land area<br />(km<sup>2</sup>) !! [[Lagoon]] area<br />(km<sup>2</sup>) !! No. of islets !! Population [[census]]<br />(2001) !! [[Geographic coordinate system|Location]] | ||
|- | |- | ||
| colspan=9 style="text-align:center; background:#efefef;"| '''[[Aminidivi|Aminidivi Islands]]''' | | colspan=9 style="text-align:center; background:#efefef;"| '''[[Aminidivi|Aminidivi Islands]]''' | ||
|- style="background: #CCF;" | |- style="background: #CCF;" | ||
|[[Cora Divh]]|| | |[[Cora Divh]] || Bank || align=right | {{mdash}} || align=right | 339.45 || align=right | {{mdash}} || align=right | {{mdash}} || {{coord|13|42|N|72|11|E|name=Cora Divh}} | ||
|- style="background: #CCF;" | |- style="background: #CCF;" | ||
|[[Sesostris Bank]]|| | |[[Sesostris Bank]] || Bank || align=right | {{mdash}} || align=right | 388.53 || align=right | {{mdash}} || align=right | {{mdash}} || {{coord|13|08|N|72|00|E|name=Sesostris Bank}} | ||
|- style="background: #CCF;" | |- style="background: #CCF;" | ||
|[[Bassas de Pedro]]<br />(''Munyal Par'', ''Padua Bank'')|| | |[[Bassas de Pedro]]<br />(''Munyal Par'', ''Padua Bank'') || Bank || align=right | {{mdash}} || align=right | 2474.33 || align=right | {{mdash}} || align=right | {{mdash}} || {{coord|13|07|N|72|25|E|name=Bassas de Pedro}} | ||
|- style="background: #FFC;" | |- style="background: #FFC;" | ||
| [[Cherbaniani Reef]] (''Beleapani Reef'')|| | | [[Cherbaniani Reef]] (''Beleapani Reef'') || Reef || align=right | 0.01 || align=right | 172.59 || align=right | 2 || align=right | {{mdash}} || {{coord|12|18|N|71|53|E|name=Cherbaniani Reef}} | ||
|- style="background: #FFC;" | |- style="background: #FFC;" | ||
| [[Byramgore Reef]] (''Chereapani'')|| | | [[Byramgore Reef]] (''Chereapani'') || Reef || align=right | 0.01 || align=right | 57.46 || align=right | 1 || align=right | {{mdash}} || {{coord|11|54|N|71|49|E|name=Byramgore Reef}} | ||
|- style="background: #CFC;" | |- style="background: #CFC;" | ||
|[[Chetlat Island]]|| | |[[Chetlat Island]] || Atoll || align=right | 1.14 || align=right | 1.60 || align=right | 1 || align=right | 2,289 || {{coord|11|42|N|72|42|E|name=Chetlat Island}} | ||
|- style="background: #CFC;" | |- style="background: #CFC;" | ||
|[[Bitra|Bitrā Island]]|| | |[[Bitra|Bitrā Island]] || Atoll || align=right | 0.10 || align=right | 45.61 || align=right | 2 || align=right | 264 || {{coord|11|33|N|72|09|E|name=Bitrā Island}} | ||
|- style="background: #CFC;" | |- style="background: #CFC;" | ||
|[[Kiltan|Kiltān Island]]|| | |[[Kiltan|Kiltān Island]] || Atoll || align=right | 2.20 || align=right | 1.76 || align=right | 1 || align=right | 3,664 || {{coord|11|29|N|73|00|E|name=Kiltān Island}} | ||
|- style="background: #CFC;" | |- style="background: #CFC;" | ||
|[[Kadmat Island]] (''Cardamom'')|| | |[[Kadmat Island]] (''Cardamom'') || Atoll || align=right | 3.20 || align=right | 37.50 || align=right | 1 || align=right | 5,319 || {{coord|11|14|N|72|47|E|name=Kadmat Island}} | ||
|- style="background: #CCF;" | |- style="background: #CCF;" | ||
|[[Elikalpeni Bank]]|| | |[[Elikalpeni Bank]] || Bank || align=right | {{mdash}} || align=right | 95.91 || align=right | {{mdash}} || align=right | {{mdash}} || {{coord|11|12|N|73|58|E|name=Elikalpeni Bank}} | ||
|- style="background: #FFC;" | |- style="background: #FFC;" | ||
| [[Perumal Par]]|| | | [[Perumal Par]] || Reef || align=right | 0.01 || align=right | 83.02 || align=right | 1 || align=right | {{mdash}} || {{coord|11|10|N|72|04|E|name=Perumal Par}} | ||
|- style="background: #CFC;" | |- style="background: #CFC;" | ||
|[[Amini, India|Amini Island]]<sup> 1)</sup>|| | |[[Amini, India|Amini Island]]<sup> 1)</sup> || Atoll || align=right | 2.59 || align=right | 155.09<sup>1)</sup> || align=right | 1 || align=right | 7,340 || {{coord|11|06|N|72|45|E|name=Amini Island}} | ||
|- | |- | ||
| colspan=9 style="text-align:center; background:#efefef;"| '''[[Laccadive Islands]]''' | | colspan=9 style="text-align:center; background:#efefef;"| '''[[Laccadive Islands]]''' | ||
|- style="background: #CFC;" | |- style="background: #CFC;" | ||
|[[Agatti|Agatti Island]] (''Agatti'') <sup>2)</sup>|| | |[[Agatti|Agatti Island]] (''Agatti'') <sup>2)</sup> || Atoll || align=right | 2.70 || align=right | 4.84 || align=right | 1 || align=right | 8,000 || {{coord|10|50|N|73|41|E|name=Agatti Island}} | ||
|- style="background: #CFC;" | |- style="background: #CFC;" | ||
|[[Bangaram|Bangaram Island]] (''Bangaram'') <sup>2)</sup>|| | |[[Bangaram|Bangaram Island]] (''Bangaram'') <sup>2)</sup> || Atoll || align=right | 2.30 || align=right | 4.84 || align=right | 4 || align=right | 61 || {{coord|10|50|N|73|41|E|name=Bangaram Island}} | ||
|- style="background: #CFC;" | |- style="background: #CFC;" | ||
|[[Pitti|Pitti Island]]<sup> 1)</sup>|| | |[[Pitti|Pitti Island]]<sup> 1)</sup> || Islet || align=right | 0.01 || align="right" |155.09 || align=right | 1 || align=right | {{mdash}} || {{coord|10|50|N|72|38|E|name=Pitti Island}} | ||
|- style="background: #CFC;" | |- style="background: #CFC;" | ||
|[[Andrott|Androth Island]] (''Andrott'')|| | |[[Andrott|Androth Island]] (''Andrott'') || Atoll || align=right | 4.90 || align=right | 4.84 || align=right | 1 || align=right | 10,720 || {{coord|10|50|N|73|41|E|name=Androth Island}} | ||
|- style="background: #CFC;" | |- style="background: #CFC;" | ||
|[[Kavaratti|Kavaratti Island]]|| | |[[Kavaratti|Kavaratti Island]] || Atoll || align=right | 4.22 || align=right | 4.96 || align=right | 1 || align=right | 10,113 || {{coord|10|33|N|72|38|E|name=Kavaratti Island}} | ||
|- style="background: #CFC;" | |- style="background: #CFC;" | ||
|[[Kalpeni|Kalpeni Island]]|| | |[[Kalpeni|Kalpeni Island]] || Atoll || align=right | 2.79 || align=right | 25.60 || align=right | 5 || align=right | 4,319 || {{coord|10|05|N|73|38|E|name=Kalpeni Island}} | ||
|- style="background: #CFC;" | |- style="background: #CFC;" | ||
|[[Suheli Par]] <sup>3)</sup>|| | |[[Suheli Par]] <sup>3)</sup> || Atoll || align=right | 0.57 || align=right | 78.76 || align=right | 2 || align=right | {{mdash}} || {{coord|10|05|N|72|17|E|name=Suheli Par}} | ||
|- | |- | ||
| colspan=9 style="text-align:center; background:#efefef;"| '''[[Minicoy Island|Minicoy Atoll]]''' | | colspan=9 style="text-align:center; background:#efefef;"| '''[[Minicoy Island|Minicoy Atoll]]''' | ||
|- style="background: #CCF;" | |- style="background: #CCF;" | ||
|[[Investigator Bank]]|| | |[[Investigator Bank]] || Bank || align=right | {{mdash}} || align=right | 141.78 || align=right | {{mdash}} || align=right | {{mdash}} || {{coord|08|32|N|73|17|E|name=Investigator Bank}} | ||
|- style="background: #CFC;" | |- style="background: #CFC;" | ||
|[[Minicoy Island]]<sup> 4)</sup>|| | |[[Minicoy Island]] <sup> 4)</sup> || Atoll || align=right | 4.80 || align=right | 30.60 || align=right | 2 || align=right | 9,495 || {{coord|08|17|N|73|02|E|name=Minicoy Island}} | ||
|- style="background: #CFC;" | |- style="background: #CFC;" | ||
|[[Viringili (Maliku Atoll)|Viringili Island]]<sup> 4)</sup>|| | |[[Viringili (Maliku Atoll)|Viringili Island]]<sup> 4)</sup> || Islet || align=right | 0.02 || align=right | 30.60 || align=right | 1 || align=right | {{mdash}} || {{coord|08|27|N|73|01|E|name=Viringili (Maliku Atoll)}} | ||
|- | |- | ||
|'''Lakshadweep'''|| || align=right|32.69|| align=right|4203.14||align=right|32|| align=right|60,595||08°16'-13°58'N,<br />71°44°-74°24'E | |'''Lakshadweep''' || || align=right | 32.69 || align=right | 4203.14 || align=right | 32 || align=right | 60,595 || 08°16'-13°58'N,<br />71°44°-74°24'E | ||
|- | |- | ||
| colspan=9 style="text-align:left; background:#fff;"|<sup>1) </sup> Amini Island and Pitti Island are both on [[Pitti Bank]], a largely sunken atoll with a lagoon area of 155.09 km<sup>2</sup> | | colspan=9 style="text-align:left; background:#fff;"|<sup>1)</sup> Amini Island and Pitti Island are both on [[Pitti Bank]], a largely sunken atoll with a lagoon area of 155.09 km<sup>2</sup> | ||
|- | |- | ||
| colspan=9 style="text-align:left; background:#fff;"|<sup>2) </sup>Bangaram and Agatti Islands are connected by a shallow submarine ridge | | colspan=9 style="text-align:left; background:#fff;"|<sup>2)</sup> Bangaram and Agatti Islands are connected by a shallow submarine ridge | ||
|- | |- | ||
| colspan=9 style="text-align:left; background:#fff;"|<sup>3) </sup> | | colspan=9 style="text-align:left; background:#fff;"|<sup>3)</sup> New international tourist resort, otherwise uninhabited, but with a population 61 at the 1990 census | ||
|- | |- | ||
| colspan=9 style="text-align:left; background:#fff;"|<sup>4) </sup> Minicoy Island and Viringili Island are both on [[Minicoy|Maliku Atoll]] | | colspan=9 style="text-align:left; background:#fff;"|<sup>4)</sup> Minicoy Island and Viringili Island are both on [[Minicoy|Maliku Atoll]] | ||
|} | |} | ||
| Line 225: | Line 227: | ||
{| class="infobox border" | {| class="infobox border" | ||
|+ Local symbols of Lakshadweep | |+ Local symbols of Lakshadweep | ||
|- | |- | ||
! Animal | ! Animal | ||
| Line 243: | Line 241: | ||
|- | |- | ||
! Flower | ! Flower | ||
| | | Not designated | ||
| | | | ||
|} | |} | ||
The region does not have a rich flora and almost all the plants can be found on the mainland of India. There is also an absence of forest in the region. Nearly 400 species of flowering plants have been documented, including three species of sea grasses ''[[Cymodocea isoetifolia]]'', ''[[Syringodium isoetifolium]]'' and ''[[Thalassia hemprichii]]'', other [[angiosperms]] as ''[[Pandanus]]'', ''[[Heliotropium foertherianum]]'', ''[[Tournefortia argentea]]'' and ''[[Pemphis acidula]]'' as well as [[fungi]], [[algae]], [[lichen]]s are also found. The common flora of the coral sands include coconut groves and coastal shrubs as ''[[Pemphis acidula]]'', ''[[Cordia subcordata]]'', ''[[Scaevola taccada]]'', ''[[Thespesia populnea]]'', ''[[Suriana maritima]]'', ''[[Dodonaea viscosa]]'', ''[[Guettarda speciosa]]'' and [[seaweeds]] such as [[sea lettuce]]s, ''[[Codium]]'' and ''[[Hypena]]''.<ref name=planningreport1/><ref>Rao, T.A. & J.L. Ellis, ''Flora of Lakshadweep Islands off the Malabar coast, peninsular India, with emphasis on phytogeographical distribution of plants''. Journal of Economic and Taxonomic Botany 19:235-250. 1995</ref> | The region does not have a rich flora and almost all the plants can be found on the mainland of India. There is also an absence of forest in the region. Nearly 400 species of flowering plants have been documented, including three species of sea grasses ''[[Cymodocea isoetifolia]]'', ''[[Syringodium isoetifolium]]'' and ''[[Thalassia hemprichii]]'', other [[angiosperms]] as ''[[Pandanus]]'', ''[[Heliotropium foertherianum]]'', ''[[Tournefortia argentea]]'' and ''[[Pemphis acidula]]'' as well as [[fungi]], [[algae]], [[lichen]]s are also found. The common flora of the coral sands include coconut groves and coastal shrubs as ''[[Pemphis acidula]]'', ''[[Cordia subcordata]]'', ''[[Scaevola taccada]]'', ''[[Thespesia populnea]]'', ''[[Suriana maritima]]'', ''[[Dodonaea viscosa]]'', ''[[Guettarda speciosa]]'' and [[seaweeds]] such as [[sea lettuce]]s, ''[[Codium]]'' and ''[[Hypena]]''.<ref name=planningreport1/><ref>Rao, T.A. & J.L. Ellis, ''Flora of Lakshadweep Islands off the Malabar coast, peninsular India, with emphasis on phytogeographical distribution of plants''. Journal of Economic and Taxonomic Botany 19:235-250. 1995</ref> | ||
==Government and administration== | ==Government and administration== | ||
[[File:INDIA, LAKSHADWEEP (LACCADIVE) ISLANDS c.2000 passenger plate - Flickr - woody1778a.jpg|thumb|left|Plate in Western Script is from the Laccadive Islands]] | [[File:INDIA, LAKSHADWEEP (LACCADIVE) ISLANDS c.2000 passenger plate - Flickr - woody1778a.jpg|thumb|left|Plate in Western Script is from the Laccadive Islands]] | ||
Lakshadweep | Lakshadweep is one of India's eight [[Union Territories|union territories]]. The islands constitute a single [[Districts of India|Indian district]], and are governed by an administrator appointed by the [[President of India]] under article 239 of the [[constitution of India|constitution]]. The current administrator is [[Praful Khoda Patel]].<ref>{{cite web|title=Administrator's Profile | ||
|url=https://lakshadweep.gov.in/about-lakshadweep/profile-administrator/ |publisher=lakshadweep.nic.in|access-date=1 August 2012|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120505135226/http://lakshadweep.nic.in/depts/panchayath/lpr94.htm|archive-date=5 May 2012|url-status=dead|df=dmy-all}}</ref> There are ten sub-divisions of the territory. In Minicoy and Agatti the Sub Division is under a Deputy Collector while in the remaining eight islands developmental activities are coordinated by Sub Divisional Officers. The Collector cum Development Commissioner who is also the District Magistrate oversees matters coming under district administration, such as revenue, land settlement, law and order. The District Magistrate is assisted by one Additional District Magistrate and Ten Executive Magistrates with respect to enforcement of law and order. Administrator in his capacity as Inspector General of Lakshadweep Police has command and control of the Lakshadweep Police. Administration Secretariat is in Kavaratti.<ref>{{cite web|title=Administrative Setup|url=http://lakshadweep.nic.in/administration.html|publisher=lakshadweep.nic.in|access-date=1 August 2012|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120415082341/http://www.lakshadweep.nic.in/administration.html|archive-date=15 April 2012|url-status=dead|df=dmy-all}}</ref> For judiciary, the union territory corresponds to the [[Kerala High Court]] at [[Kochi]] along with a system of lower courts.<ref>{{cite web|title=Judicial Setup|url=http://lakshadweep.nic.in/judicialsetup.html|publisher=lakshadweep.nic.in|access-date=1 August 2012|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120307225309/http://lakshadweep.nic.in/judicialsetup.html|archive-date=7 March 2012|url-status=dead|df=dmy-all}}</ref> The territory elects one member to the [[lower house]] of the [[Parliament of India|Indian parliament]], the [[Lok Sabha]].<ref>{{cite web|title=Our Parliament|url=http://www.parliamentofindia.nic.in/ls/intro/p1.htm|publisher=parliamentofindia.nic.in|access-date=1 August 2012|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120709235221/http://parliamentofindia.nic.in/ls/intro/p1.htm|archive-date=9 July 2012|url-status=live|df=dmy-all}}</ref> | |||
==Demographics== | ==Demographics== | ||
| Line 257: | Line 255: | ||
According to the [[2011 census of India|2011 census]] Lakshadweep has a [[Demographics of India|population]] of 64,473,<ref name=districtcensus>{{cite web | url = http://www.census2011.co.in/district.php | title = District Census 2011 | access-date = 30 September 2011 | year = 2011 | publisher = Census2011.co.in | archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20110611224943/http://www.census2011.co.in/district.php | archive-date = 11 June 2011 | url-status = live | df = dmy-all }}</ref> roughly equal in number to that of the [[Marshall Islands]].<ref name="cia"> | According to the [[2011 census of India|2011 census]] Lakshadweep has a [[Demographics of India|population]] of 64,473,<ref name=districtcensus>{{cite web | url = http://www.census2011.co.in/district.php | title = District Census 2011 | access-date = 30 September 2011 | year = 2011 | publisher = Census2011.co.in | archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20110611224943/http://www.census2011.co.in/district.php | archive-date = 11 June 2011 | url-status = live | df = dmy-all }}</ref> roughly equal in number to that of the [[Marshall Islands]].<ref name="cia"> | ||
{{cite web | author = US Directorate of Intelligence | title = Country Comparison: Population | url = https://www.cia.gov/library/publications/the-world-factbook/rankorder/2119rank.html | access-date = 1 October 2011 | quote = Marshall Islands 67,182 July 2011 est. | archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20110927165947/https://www.cia.gov/library/publications/the-world-factbook/rankorder/2119rank.html | archive-date = 27 September 2011 | url-status = live | df = dmy-all }} | {{cite web | author = US Directorate of Intelligence | title = Country Comparison: Population | url = https://www.cia.gov/library/publications/the-world-factbook/rankorder/2119rank.html | access-date = 1 October 2011 | quote = Marshall Islands 67,182 July 2011 est. | archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20110927165947/https://www.cia.gov/library/publications/the-world-factbook/rankorder/2119rank.html | archive-date = 27 September 2011 | url-status = live | df = dmy-all }} | ||
</ref> This gives it a ranking of 627th among the 640 districts in India.<ref name=districtcensus/> The district has a population density of {{convert|2013|PD/sqkm|PD/sqmi}}.<ref name=districtcensus/> Its [[Family planning in India|population growth rate]] over the decade 2001-2011 was 6.23%.<ref name=districtcensus/> Lakshadweep has a [[sex ratio]] of 946 [[Women in India|females]] for every 1000 males,<ref name=districtcensus/> and a [[Literacy in India|literacy rate]] of 92.28%.<ref name=districtcensus/> | </ref> This gives it a ranking of 627th among the 640 districts in India.<ref name=districtcensus/> Lakshadweep has an urban population of 50,332 (78%) and rural population of 14,141 (22%).<ref name= "census2011"/> The district has a population density of {{convert|2013|PD/sqkm|PD/sqmi}}.<ref name=districtcensus/> Its [[Family planning in India|population growth rate]] over the decade 2001-2011 was 6.23%.<ref name=districtcensus/> Lakshadweep has a [[sex ratio]] of 946 [[Women in India|females]] for every 1000 males,<ref name=districtcensus/> and a [[Literacy in India|literacy rate]] of 92.28%.<ref name=districtcensus/> [[Fertility rate]] in Lakshadweep is 1.4, which is way below the national average.<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.ndtv.com/india-news/kerala-in-furore-over-changes-made-in-lakshadweep-by-new-administrator-2448638|title = Lakshadweep Changes, Blamed on New Administrator, Trigger Outcry}}</ref> | ||
Most people of Lakshadweep are descendants of migrants from the [[Malabar Coast]] of southwest India and the islanders are ethnically similar to coastal Kerala's [[Malayali people]]. More than 93% of the indigenous population are Muslims, and the majority of them belong to the [[Shafi'i|Shafi School]] of the Sunni Sect. The southernmost and second largest island of [[Minicoy Island|Minicoy]] has an ethnically [[Mahls]] population that are native to the [[Maldives]].<ref name=lap/><ref>{{cite web|title=Lakshadweep|url=http://www.borderdarshan.com/lakshadweep.html|publisher=borderdarshan.com|access-date=1 August 2012|url-status=dead|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20130113061357/http://www.borderdarshan.com/lakshadweep.html|archive-date=13 January 2013|df=dmy-all}}</ref> | Most people of Lakshadweep are descendants of migrants from the [[Malabar Coast]] of southwest India and the islanders are ethnically similar to coastal Kerala's [[Malayali people]]. More than 93% of the indigenous population are Muslims, and the majority of them belong to the [[Shafi'i|Shafi School]] of the Sunni Sect. The southernmost and second largest island of [[Minicoy Island|Minicoy]] has an ethnically [[Mahls]] population that are native to the [[Maldives]].<ref name=lap/><ref>{{cite web|title=Lakshadweep|url=http://www.borderdarshan.com/lakshadweep.html|publisher=borderdarshan.com|access-date=1 August 2012|url-status=dead|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20130113061357/http://www.borderdarshan.com/lakshadweep.html|archive-date=13 January 2013|df=dmy-all}}</ref> | ||
| Line 265: | Line 263: | ||
{{Pie chart | {{Pie chart | ||
| thumb = right | | thumb = right | ||
| caption = Religion in | | caption = Religion in Union Territory (2011)<ref name= "census2011">{{cite web|title=Population by religion community - 2011|url=http://www.censusindia.gov.in/2011census/C-01/DDW00C-01%20MDDS.XLS|website=Census of India, 2011|publisher=The Registrar General & Census Commissioner, India|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150825155850/http://www.censusindia.gov.in/2011census/C-01/DDW00C-01%20MDDS.XLS|archive-date=25 August 2015}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.indiacensus.net/district/lakshadweep|title=Lakshadweep Population 2021}}</ref> | ||
| label1 = [[Islam]]|color1 = green | | label1 = [[Islam]]|color1 = green | ||
| value1 = 96.58 | | value1 = 96.58 | ||
| Line 272: | Line 270: | ||
| label3 = [[Christianity]]|color3 = dodgerblue | | label3 = [[Christianity]]|color3 = dodgerblue | ||
| value3 = 0.49 | | value3 = 0.49 | ||
| label4 = | | label4 = |color5 = brown | ||
| value4 = 0. | | value4 = 0.0 | ||
| label5 = | | label5 = |color6 = darkkhaki | ||
| value5 = 0. | | value5 = 0.0 | ||
| label6 = | | label6 = |color4 = #FFFF00 | ||
| value6 = 0. | | value6 = 0.0 | ||
| label7 = Other or irreligious|color7 = black | | label7 = Other or irreligious|color7 = black | ||
| value7 = 0. | | value7 = 0.16 | ||
}} | }} | ||
The inhabitants of Lakshadweep were known to practice different religious customs. Then Islam was propounded by the [[Sheikh Ubaidullah]].<ref>{{cite web |url=http://lakshadweep.nic.in/ISLAND_web/KILTAN/history.html |title=Kiltan Island |publisher=Lakshadweep.nic.in |access-date=25 February 2015 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20140503203222/http://lakshadweep.nic.in/ISLAND_web/KILTAN/history.html |archive-date=3 May 2014 |url-status=dead |df=dmy-all }}</ref> | The inhabitants of Lakshadweep were known to practice different religious customs. Then Islam was propounded by the [[Sheikh Ubaidullah]].<ref>{{cite web |url=http://lakshadweep.nic.in/ISLAND_web/KILTAN/history.html |title=Kiltan Island |publisher=Lakshadweep.nic.in |access-date=25 February 2015 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20140503203222/http://lakshadweep.nic.in/ISLAND_web/KILTAN/history.html |archive-date=3 May 2014 |url-status=dead |df=dmy-all }}</ref> | ||
The spread of Islam has contributed to the religious identity of Lakshadweep thus leaving Muslims as the majority of the population. [[Eid al-Fitr|Eid-ul-Fitr]], [[Muharram]], [[Eid al-Adha|Eid-ul-Adha]] and [[Mawlid|Milad-un-Nabi]] are the prominent occasions when the people of the island gather in various mosques. | The spread of Islam has contributed to the religious identity of Lakshadweep thus leaving Muslims as the majority of the population. [[Eid al-Fitr|Eid-ul-Fitr]], [[Muharram]], [[Eid al-Adha|Eid-ul-Adha]] and [[Mawlid|Milad-un-Nabi]] are the prominent occasions when the people of the island gather in various mosques. The culture is almost similar to that of [[Mappila]]s in the nearest mainland state of [[Kerala]].<ref name="cult">{{Cite web|url=https://lakshadweep.gov.in/about-lakshadweep/culture-heritage/|title=Lakshadweep-Culture and Heritage|website=lakshadweep.gov.in|publisher=Government of India}}</ref> | ||
Religious observance in Lakshadweep is characterized by certain festivals that are found in its core ethnic groups. Moulood is one such religious event when the islanders offer prayers to the divine power and eat in groups. The festival of Ratheeb is another uncommon occasion which originated in the Kavaratti region of Lakshadweep. The grave of Sheikh Kasim, one of the respected saints is praised during Ratheeb by the people of the island to gather his holy blessings. | Religious observance in Lakshadweep is characterized by certain festivals that are found in its core ethnic groups. Moulood is one such religious event when the islanders offer prayers to the divine power and eat in groups. The festival of Ratheeb is another uncommon occasion which originated in the Kavaratti region of Lakshadweep. The grave of Sheikh Kasim, one of the respected saints is praised during Ratheeb by the people of the island to gather his holy blessings. | ||
[[Sunni Islam]] (following the [[Shafiʽi school|Shafi'i]] school) is the predominant faith.<ref>{{Cite book|last=Miller|first=Roland E.|url=https://books.google.com/books?id=TC6zCAAAQBAJ|title=Mappila Muslim Culture: How a Historic Muslim Community in India Has Blended Tradition and Modernity|publisher=SUNY Press|year=2015|isbn=978-1-4384-5601-0|pages=368}}</ref> | |||
===Languages=== | ===Languages=== | ||
| Line 294: | Line 292: | ||
| thumb = right | | thumb = right | ||
| caption = Languages of Lakshadweep (2011)<ref>[http://www.censusindia.gov.in/2011census/C-16.html 2011 Census of India, Population By Mother Tongue]</ref> | | caption = Languages of Lakshadweep (2011)<ref>[http://www.censusindia.gov.in/2011census/C-16.html 2011 Census of India, Population By Mother Tongue]</ref> | ||
| label1 = Malayalam | | label1 = [[Malayalam]] | ||
| value1 = 84.17 | | value1 = 84.17 | ||
| color1 = | | color1 = lightsalmon | ||
| label2 = Dhivehi (Mahl dialect) | | label2 = [[Maldivian language|Dhivehi]] ([[Mahl dialect]]) | ||
| value2 = 14.44 | | value2 = 14.44 | ||
| color2 = | | color2 = lightgreen | ||
| label3 = Others | | label3 = Others | ||
| value3 = 1.39 | | value3 = 1.39 | ||
| Line 305: | Line 303: | ||
}} | }} | ||
The principal languages of Lakshadweep are [[Malayalam]], [[ | The principal languages of Lakshadweep are [[Malayalam]], [[Jeseri]] (Dweep Bhasha) and [[Maldivian language|Mahl]].<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.india.gov.in/|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20110205082119/http://india.gov.in/knowindia/ut_lakshadweep.php|url-status=dead|title=National Portal of India|archive-date=5 February 2011|website=www.india.gov.in}}</ref> The people of all the northern islands speak a [[dialect]] of Malayalam with the influence of [[Arabic]] similar to [[Arabi Malayalam]]. The people of [[Minicoy]], the southernmost atoll, speak Mahl, a variant of [[Divehi language]] spoken in the [[Maldives]]. '''Jeseri''' (also known as '''Jesri''' or '''Dweep Bhasha''') is a [[dialect]] of [[Malayalam]],<ref name=":1" /> spoken in Lakshadweep.<ref name=":0" /><ref>{{cite book|title=India, a reference annual|url=https://books.google.com/books?id=GHpDAAAAYAAJ&q=jeseri,+lakshadweep|year=2004|publisher=[[Government of India]]|isbn=978-81-230-1156-1|page=851}}</ref> It is spoken on the islands of [[Chetlat]], [[Bitra]], [[Kiltan]], [[Kadmat Island|Kadmat]], [[Amini Island|Amini]], [[Kavaratti]], [[Androth]], [[Agatti]], and [[Kalpeni]], in the archipelago of Lakshadweep. Each of these islands has its own dialect. | ||
Malayalam with [[Malayalam script]] was introduced as the official language of Lakshadweep during the [[British raj]]. Previously a type of [[Arabic script]] | Malayalam with [[Malayalam script]] was introduced as the official language of Lakshadweep during the [[British raj]]. Previously a type of [[Arabic script]], which is also known as [[Ponnani]] script or [[Arabi Malayalam script]], was used for writing the language.<ref name="Subramoniam">Subramoniam, V. I. (1997). ''Dravidian Encyclopaedia''. Vol. 3, Language and literature. Thiruvananthapuram (Kerala): International School of Dravidian Linguistics. pp. 508-09. [http://worldcat.org/isbn/818569222X]</ref> The policy was continued by the Indian government. Malayalam serves as a link language on the islands including on the Mahl dominated Minicoy Island.<ref>{{cite book|url=https://books.google.com/books?id=b_a4G_Tw2ycC&q=Lakshadweep+malayalam&pg=PA13 |title=The Muslim Tribes of Lakshadweep Islands: An Anthropological Appraisal of ... - Makhan Jha - Google Books |access-date=2015-02-25|isbn=9788175330320 |last1=Jha |first1=Makhan |year=1997 }}</ref> The dances here include: Lava Dance, Kolkali Dance and Parichakli Dance. | ||
==Economy== | ==Economy== | ||
Lakshadweep's gross territorial domestic product for 2004 is estimated at | Lakshadweep's gross territorial domestic product for 2004 is estimated at {{INRConvert|3.24|b|year=2004|lk=r}} at current prices. There is little [[economic inequality]] in Lakshadweep and the [[poverty]] index is low. [[Coconut fibre]] extraction and production of fibre products is Lakshadweep's main industry. There are five coir fibre factories, five production demonstration centres and seven fibre curling units run by the government of India. These units produce coir fibre, coir yarn, curled fibre and corridor mattings.<ref>{{cite web |url=http://rbidocs.rbi.org.in/rdocs/PublicationReport/Pdfs/84466.pdf |title=Report of the Working Group on Improvement of Banking Services in the Union Territory of Lakshadweep |publisher=Rbidocs.rbi.org.in |access-date=25 February 2015 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20130525191638/http://rbidocs.rbi.org.in/rdocs/PublicationReport/Pdfs/84466.pdf |archive-date=25 May 2013 |url-status=live |df=dmy-all }}</ref> | ||
===Fisheries=== | ===Fisheries=== | ||
Lakshadweep comprises the only coral [[atolls]] of the country. With a vast [[lagoon]] of {{convert|4,200|km2|abbr=on}}, it has [[territorial waters]] of {{convert|20,000|km2|abbr=on}}, Exclusive Economic Zone (EEZ) of | Lakshadweep comprises the only coral [[atolls]] of the country. With a vast [[lagoon]] of {{convert|4,200|km2|abbr=on}}, it has [[territorial waters]] of {{convert|20,000|km2|abbr=on}}, Exclusive Economic Zone (EEZ) of {{convert|400,000|km2|abbr=on}} and [[coast|coastal line]] of about {{convert|132|km}}. There is an estimation of about {{convert|100|kt|abbr=off}} of [[tuna]] and tuna-like fishes and about an equal quantity of [[shark]] in the [[Laccadive Sea|sea around Lakshadweep]]. Fishing is the main livelihood of the islanders, or else it is coconut fibre.<ref name=fisheries1>{{cite web|title=FISHERIES|url=http://lakshadweep.nic.in/AnnualPlan_2011_2012_7.htm|publisher=lakshadweep.nic.in|access-date=1 August 2012|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120511234921/http://lakshadweep.nic.in/AnnualPlan_2011_2012_7.htm|archive-date=11 May 2012|url-status=dead|df=dmy-all}}</ref> Freshly caught tuna is processed by drying it in the sun after cooking and smoking. The resultant product, known as 'mas', are popular products exported from these islands to [[Southeast Asia|southeast Asian countries]].<ref name=fisheries2>{{cite web|title=Department of Fisheries-About Us|url=http://lakshadweep.nic.in/depts/fisheries/About%20Us.htm|publisher=lakshadweep.nic.in|access-date=1 August 2012|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20130425212729/http://lakshadweep.nic.in/depts/fisheries/About%20Us.htm|archive-date=25 April 2013|url-status=dead|df=dmy-all}}</ref> Eleven workshops in the islands and two boat building yards cater to the needs of fishermen. There are 375 boats in operation in Lakshadweep.<ref name=fisheries3>{{cite web|title=Fisheries|url=http://lakshadweep.nic.in/KL_Fisheries.html|publisher=lakshadweep.nic.in|access-date=1 August 2012|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120512104129/http://lakshadweep.nic.in/KL_Fisheries.html|archive-date=12 May 2012|url-status=dead|df=dmy-all}}</ref> | ||
===Tourism=== | ===Tourism=== | ||
Due to its isolation and scenic appeal, Lakshadweep was already known as a tourist attraction for Indians since 1974.<ref>{{cite web |url=http://lakshadweeptourism.nic.in/ |title=Tourism in Lakshadweep |publisher=Lakshadweeptourism.nic.in |date=1988-10-22 |access-date=2015-02-25 |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150219123906/http://lakshadweeptourism.nic.in/ |archive-date=19 February 2015 |df=dmy-all }}</ref> This brings in significant revenue, which is likely to increase. Since such a small region cannot support industries, the government is actively promoting tourism as a means of income in [[Bangaram Island|Bangaram]] and Kadmat islands. Bangaram is projected to become a major destination for international tourism.<ref>[http://www.mapsofindia.com/lakshadweep/tourism/bangaram-island.html] {{webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20110510124248/http://www.mapsofindia.com/lakshadweep/tourism/bangaram-island.html|date=10 May 2011}}</ref> Marine fauna are plentiful. Water sports activities such as [[scuba diving]], [[wind surfing]], [[snorkelling]], [[surfing]], [[kayaking]], [[canoeing]], [[water skiing]], [[sportfishing]], yachting and night sea voyages are popular activities among tourists. Tourists flock to these islands throughout the year, except during the [[southwest monsoon]] months when seas are extremely rough. The government has also proposed to set up two customs clearance check-in offices so that tourists can enter directly instead of getting permission from the nearest customs office in Kochi, which is {{convert|260|nmi|mi km}} from these islands. These will be the smallest customs offices in India. Tourism is expected to get a big boost after these offices open as the islands lie on one of the busiest cruise passages.{{citation needed|date=February 2020}} | Due to its isolation and scenic appeal, Lakshadweep was already known as a tourist attraction for Indians since 1974.<ref>{{cite web |url=http://lakshadweeptourism.nic.in/ |title=Tourism in Lakshadweep |publisher=Lakshadweeptourism.nic.in |date=1988-10-22 |access-date=2015-02-25 |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150219123906/http://lakshadweeptourism.nic.in/ |archive-date=19 February 2015 |df=dmy-all }}</ref> This brings in significant revenue, which is likely to increase. Since such a small region cannot support industries, the government is actively promoting tourism as a means of income in [[Bangaram Island|Bangaram]] and Kadmat islands. Bangaram is projected to become a major destination for international tourism.<ref>[http://www.mapsofindia.com/lakshadweep/tourism/bangaram-island.html] {{webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20110510124248/http://www.mapsofindia.com/lakshadweep/tourism/bangaram-island.html|date=10 May 2011}}</ref> Marine fauna are plentiful. Water sports activities such as [[scuba diving]], [[wind surfing]], [[snorkelling]], [[surfing]], [[kayaking]], [[canoeing]], [[water skiing]], [[sportfishing]], yachting and night sea voyages are popular activities among tourists. Tourists flock to these islands throughout the year, except during the [[southwest monsoon]] months when seas are extremely rough. The government has also proposed to set up two customs clearance check-in offices so that tourists can enter directly instead of getting permission from the nearest customs office in Kochi, which is {{convert|260|nmi|mi km}} from these islands. These will be the smallest customs offices in India. Tourism is expected to get a big boost after these offices open as the islands lie on one of the busiest cruise passages.{{citation needed|date=February 2020}} | ||
Lakshadweep will receive its first statue of [[Mahatma Gandhi]] in connection with the celebrations of Mahatma Gandhi's 152nd birthday.<ref>{{Cite web|date=2021-10-02|title=Lakshadweep to get its first statue – of Mahatma Gandhi|url=https://indianexpress.com/article/india/lakshadweep-to-get-its-first-statue-of-mahatma-gandhi-7547176/|access-date=2021-10-02|website=The Indian Express|language=en}}</ref> | |||
===Desalination=== | ===Desalination=== | ||
A [[low-temperature thermal desalination]] plant opened on Kavaratti in 2005, at a cost of {{INR}}50 million (€922,000). The experimental plant, which uses the temperature difference between warm surface seawater and much colder seawater at | A [[low-temperature thermal desalination]] plant opened on Kavaratti in 2005, at a cost of {{INR}}50 million (€922,000). The experimental plant, which uses the temperature difference between warm surface seawater and much colder seawater at {{convert|500|m|abbr=on|adj=on}} depth to generate potable water as well as energy, was put in place to produce 100,000 litres/day of potable water from seawater.<ref name=plantpress>{{cite press release|title=World's first ever low temperature thermal desalination plant opened at Kavaratti|publisher=[[Ministry of Science and Technology (India)]]|date=23 May 2005|url=http://pib.nic.in/newsite/erelease.aspx?relid=9439|access-date=1 August 2012|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120426172244/http://pib.nic.in/newsite/erelease.aspx?relid=9439|archive-date=26 April 2012|url-status=live|df=dmy-all}}</ref><ref>{{cite press release|title=One Million Litre Per Day (1 MLD) Barge Mounted Desalination Plant|publisher=[[Ministry of Science and Technology (India)]]|date=18 April 2007|url=http://pib.nic.in/newsite/erelease.aspx?relid=26958|access-date=1 August 2012|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20130425230651/http://pib.nic.in/newsite/erelease.aspx?relid=26958|archive-date=25 April 2013|url-status=live|df=dmy-all}}</ref> Production costs in 2005 were {{INR}}220-250/m<sup>3</sup> (€4.1-4.6/m<sup>3</sup>); the cost was supposed to drop to {{INR}}30-60/m<sup>3</sup> (€0.55-1.11/m<sup>3</sup>) with increased capacity.<ref>{{cite press release|title=Desalination: India opens world's first low temperature thermal desalination plant |publisher=Press Information Bureau, Government of India |date=23 May 2005 |url=http://www.source.irc.nl/page/24010 |access-date=3 August 2012 |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120722034730/http://www.source.irc.nl/page/24010 |archive-date=22 July 2012 }}</ref> | ||
The technology was developed by the [[National Institute of Ocean Technology]]. It can be used to produce drinking water and also for power generation and air conditioning. In addition, the deep seawater contains extra nutrients for fish, an important source of food and income for the local population. The government plans to set up desalination plants with a capacity of 10 million litres/per day on all islands and coastal areas.<ref name=plantpress/> In 2009, the NIOT announced plans to build plants on [[Maliku Atoll|Minicoy]], [[Agatti Island|Agatti]] and [[Andrott]].<ref>{{cite news|url=http://www.hindu.com/2009/11/19/stories/2009111961820300.htm|title=City institute plans to develop manned submersibles|date=19 November 2009|work=[[The Hindu]]|access-date=1 August 2012|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20091224082947/http://www.hindu.com/2009/11/19/stories/2009111961820300.htm|archive-date=24 December 2009|url-status= | The technology was developed by the [[National Institute of Ocean Technology]]. It can be used to produce drinking water and also for power generation and air conditioning. In addition, the deep seawater contains extra nutrients for fish, an important source of food and income for the local population. The government plans to set up desalination plants with a capacity of 10 million litres/per day on all islands and coastal areas.<ref name=plantpress/> In 2009, the NIOT announced plans to build plants on [[Maliku Atoll|Minicoy]], [[Agatti Island|Agatti]] and [[Andrott]].<ref>{{cite news|url=http://www.hindu.com/2009/11/19/stories/2009111961820300.htm|title=City institute plans to develop manned submersibles|date=19 November 2009|work=[[The Hindu]]|access-date=1 August 2012|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20091224082947/http://www.hindu.com/2009/11/19/stories/2009111961820300.htm|archive-date=24 December 2009|url-status=dead|df=dmy-all}}</ref> | ||
==Education== | ==Education== | ||
=== | ===General=== | ||
* [[Calicut University Centre, Kadmath]] | * [[Calicut University Centre, Kadmath]] | ||
* [[Government Jawaharlal Nehru College, Lakshadweep]] | * [[Government Jawaharlal Nehru College, Lakshadweep]] | ||
* [[Mahatma Gandhi College, Lakshadweep]] | * [[Mahatma Gandhi College, Lakshadweep]] | ||
* [[P. M. Sayeed Calicut University Centre, Andrott]] | * [[P. M. Sayeed Calicut University Centre, Andrott]] | ||
* College of Education, Calicut University Centre, Kavaratti | |||
===School=== | ===School=== | ||
| Line 335: | Line 336: | ||
==Transport and tourism== | ==Transport and tourism== | ||
[[Agatti Aerodrome]] on Agatti Island is the only airport in Lakshadweep. [[Alliance Air (India)|Alliance Air]], a subsidiary of the state-owned carrier [[Air India]], serves Agatti and flies to [[Kochi (India)|Kochi]] and [[Bengaluru]] on the mainland. [[Kingfisher Airlines]] had flights connecting [[Kochi]] and [[Bangalore]] to [[Agatti]] before the airline ceased operations. The other islands are linked by the [[Pawan Hans]] helicopter or boat service.<ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.mapsofindia.com/flight-schedule/kochi-agatti.html |title=Kochi to Agatti Flights and their Schedule |publisher=Mapsofindia.com |date=2014-09-08 |access-date=2015-02-25 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20111117043118/http://www.mapsofindia.com/flight-schedule/kochi-agatti.html |archive-date=17 November 2011 |url-status=live |df=dmy-all }}</ref> Six ships connect Kochi, | [[Agatti Aerodrome]] on Agatti Island is the only airport in Lakshadweep. [[Alliance Air (India)|Alliance Air]], a subsidiary of the state-owned carrier [[Air India]], serves Agatti and flies to [[Kochi (India)|Kochi]] and [[Bengaluru]] on the mainland. [[Kingfisher Airlines]] had flights connecting [[Kochi]] and [[Bangalore]] to [[Agatti]] before the airline ceased operations. The other islands are linked by the [[Pawan Hans]] helicopter or boat service.<ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.mapsofindia.com/flight-schedule/kochi-agatti.html |title=Kochi to Agatti Flights and their Schedule |publisher=Mapsofindia.com |date=2014-09-08 |access-date=2015-02-25 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20111117043118/http://www.mapsofindia.com/flight-schedule/kochi-agatti.html |archive-date=17 November 2011 |url-status=live |df=dmy-all }}</ref> Six ships connect Kochi, [[Kozhikode]] ([[Beypore]]) and Lakshadweep: {{ship|MV|Kavaratti||6}}, MV ''Amindivi'', MV ''Minicoy'', MV ''Arabian Sea'', MV ''Lakshadweep Sea'' and MV ''Bharath Seema''.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://lakshadweep.nic.in/howtoreach.html|title=Means of Transport|publisher=Union Territory of Lakshadweep|access-date=1 August 2012|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20141231102317/http://lakshadweep.nic.in/howtoreach.html|archive-date=31 December 2014|url-status=dead|df=dmy-all}}</ref> [[Mangala Lakshadweep Express]] is a superfast train that runs between [[Hazrat Nizamuddin railway station|Delhi]] and [[Ernakulam Junction|Kochi]]. | ||
Tourists essentially need a permission to visit the islands; foreign nationals are not permitted to visit certain islands.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://lakshadweep.nic.in/depts/revenue/entry_permits.htm |title=Entry Permits |publisher=Union Territory of Lakshadweep |access-date=25 February 2015 |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150224123645/http://lakshadweep.nic.in/depts/revenue/entry_permits.htm |archive-date=24 February 2015 }}</ref> According to the current [[alcohol laws of India]], [[alcoholic beverage]] consumption is not permitted in the Lakshadweep Archipelago except on [[Bangaram Island]].<ref>{{cite news|title=Introduction to Lakshadweep Islands|url=http://travel.nytimes.com/frommers/travel/guides/asia/india/kerala/lakshadweep-islands/frm_lakshadwee_3484010001.html|newspaper=The New York Times|access-date=1 August 2012|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20130211045612/http://travel.nytimes.com/frommers/travel/guides/asia/india/kerala/lakshadweep-islands/frm_lakshadwee_3484010001.html|archive-date=11 February 2013|url-status=live|df=dmy-all}}</ref> | |||
To boost the economy, high-end tourism, tele-medicine, tele-education, fisheries, and others, the union government announced a project to install under-sea fiber optic cable for high-speed mobile and internet connectivity between [[Kochi]] and 11 islands of Lakshadweep including Kavaratti, Kalpeni, Agati, Amini, Androth, Minicoy, Bangaram, Bitra, Chetlat, Kiltan and Kadmat. This {{INRConvert|10.72|b}} project will be completed by May 2023.<ref name=live,1>[https://www.livemint.com/news/india/cabinet-approves-undersea-fibre-link-between-lakshadweep-islands-and-kochi-11607520516666.html Cabinet approves undersea fibre link between Lakshadweep islands and Kochi], Live Mint, 9 Dec 2020.</ref> | |||
{{clear}} | {{clear}} | ||
<gallery mode="packed" heights="134"> | <gallery mode="packed" heights="134"> | ||
File:MV Amindivi 001.JPG|Passenger ship MV ''Amindivi'' of the | File:Kavaratti Island, Lakshadweep, India 20160324- DSC1618.jpg|Water sports at [[Kavaratti]] Island | ||
File:Agatti Airstrip.jpg|Agatti Airstrip | File:MV Amindivi 001.JPG|Passenger ship MV ''[[Amindivi]]'' of the Lakshdweep Islands administration docked at Old Mangalore port | ||
File:Agatti Airstrip.jpg|[[Agatti]] Airstrip | |||
File:Agatti island, Lakshadweep.jpg|Agatti island, | File:Agatti island, Lakshadweep.jpg|[[Agatti]] island, [[Lakshdweep]] | ||
File:RED BILLED TROPIC BIRD.jpg|A rare red-billed tropicbird (Phaethon aethereus subsp. indicus) found in small islands of | File:RED BILLED TROPIC BIRD.jpg|A rare [[red-billed tropicbird]] (Phaethon aethereus subsp. indicus) found in small islands of Lakshdweep | ||
File:Green turtle Lakshadweep.jpg|Green turtle | File:Green turtle Lakshadweep.jpg|[[Green turtle]] near [[Laccadive Sea]] | ||
File:Scuba diving @ Lakshadweep.jpg|Octopus | File:Scuba diving @ Lakshadweep.jpg|[[Octopus]] | ||
File:Chaetodon falcula.jpg| Closeup of a [[Butterfly Fish]] ([[Chaetodon falcula]]) in a reef, Lakshdweep. | |||
File:Coral Reef.jpg|[[Coral Reef]] near [[Bangaram Island]], Lakshdweep | |||
File:Picasso triggerfish2.jpg|A Lagoon [[Triggerfish]] swimming around the reef of Lakshdweep. | |||
</gallery> | </gallery> | ||
| Line 362: | Line 369: | ||
==Further reading== | ==Further reading== | ||
* [[R. C. Majumdar]] (1979) ''The History of Ancient Lakshadweep'', Calcutta. | * [[R. C. Majumdar]] (1979) ''The History of Ancient Lakshadweep'', Calcutta. | ||
* S. Anandan, [https://www.thehindu.com/news/national/lakshadweep-between-the-sea-and-a-hard-place/article34678112.ece Lakshadweep – Between the sea and a hard place], The Hindu, 30 May 2021. | |||
==External links== | ==External links== | ||
{{Commons category|Lakshadweep}} | {{Commons category|Lakshadweep}} | ||
* {{wikivoyage-inline|Lakshadweep}} | * {{wikivoyage-inline|Lakshadweep}} | ||
* [https://www.thenationalnews.com/world/asia/paradise-lost-india-s-lakshadweep-islanders-reject-plan-to-create-new-maldives-1.1241327#1 "Paradise lost? India's Lakshadweep islanders reject plan to create 'new Maldives'. Islanders accuse new administrator of trying to erase their traditions, identity and livelihood", "The National", June 15, 2021] | |||
{{Lakshadweep}} | {{Lakshadweep}} | ||
| Line 376: | Line 386: | ||
[[Category:Lakshadweep| ]] | [[Category:Lakshadweep| ]] | ||
[[Category:South India|.]] | [[Category:South India|.]] | ||
[[Category:Union | [[Category:Union territories of India]] | ||
[[Category:Islands of Lakshadweep|*]] | [[Category:Islands of Lakshadweep|*]] | ||
[[Category:Atolls of India]] | [[Category:Atolls of India]] | ||
| Line 386: | Line 396: | ||
[[Category:States and union territories of India]] | [[Category:States and union territories of India]] | ||
[[Category:Districts of Lakshadweep]] | [[Category:Districts of Lakshadweep]] | ||