Lakshadweep

The name Lakshadweep is derived from Lakṣadvīpa meaning "one hundred thousand islands," presumably from Sanskrit or Malayalam.{{cite web|url=https://lakshadweep.gov.in/about-lakshadweep/|title=About Lakshadweep|work=Government of India|access-date=1 December 2023|archive-date=20 June 2024|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240620081728/https://lakshadweep.gov.in/about-lakshadweep/|url-status=live}} Laccadive seems to be the result of the anglicization of the given name during the British Raj.{{cite book|title=Mapping Place Names of India|first=Anu|last=Kapur|year=2019|isbn=978-0-429-61421-7|publisher=Taylor & Francis|url=https://books.google.com/books?id=ApCKDwAAQBAJ&q=Mapping+Place+Names+of+India+Anglicized+laccadive}} Amindivi derives its name from the Amindivi people, who were the earliest inhabitants of the Amini Island.{{cite journal|url=https://www.anthropologicalbulletin.in/journals/vol3-14/A.P%203%20(2)%202014.pdf|issn=2348-4667|journal=Anthropological Bulletin|year=2014|volume=3|title=Anthropology of Small Islands: The Case of Lakshadweep Islands of India|first=A|last=Singh|access-date=1 February 2024|archive-date=14 February 2024|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240214143221/https://www.anthropologicalbulletin.in/journals/vol3-14/A.P%203%20(2)%202014.pdf|url-status=live}} The native name of the Minicoy Island is Maliku, and the given name is the anglicized version derived from the Nicobarese word Minikaa-raajje (meaning "land of the cannibals") as the island was known then in the Andaman and Nicobar.{{cite web|url=https://minicoy.utl.gov.in/abt_minicoy/history/|title=History of Mincoy|work=Government of India|access-date=1 December 2023|archive-date=1 February 2024|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240201065613/https://minicoy.utl.gov.in/abt_minicoy/history|url-status=live}}

The early human migration from Africa to the Andaman Islands through India was thought by scientists to include Lakshadweep because of its location between Africa and the southwestern region of India. However, later genetic studies indicated that the majority of human ancestry in the islands derived from South Asia.{{cite news|url=https://www.deccanherald.com/india/genetic-study-on-lakshadweep-human-settlements-done-732743.html|title=Genetic study on Lakshadweep human settlements done|date=8 May 2019|access-date=1 December 2023|newspaper=Deccan Herald|archive-date=20 June 2024|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240620081727/https://www.deccanherald.com/india/genetic-study-on-lakshadweep-human-settlements-done-732743.html|url-status=live}} Archaeological evidence from Kalpeni indicate the existence of human settlements in the region from at least 1500 BCE.{{cite book|title=Lakshadweep India, the land and the people|first=Omesh|last=Saigal|publisher=National Book Trust|year=2000|isbn=978-8-123-73108-7|page=51}} The islands are mentioned in the Buddhist Jataka tales, dated to 3rd century CE.{{cite web|url=https://sites.pitt.edu/~dash/jataka.html|title=Jataka tales|work=University of Pittsburgh|access-date=1 December 2023|archive-date=15 November 2023|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231115191123/https://sites.pitt.edu/~dash/jataka.html|url-status=live}} Archeological evidence indicates the spread of Buddhism to the islands during the time of Sanghmitra, the daughter of emperor Ashoka, presumed to have visited the island.{{cite book|title=Archaeology of Maldives and Lakshadweep|first=A. K.|last=Sharma|date=2019|pages=4–15|publisher=B. R. Publishers|isbn=978-9-388-78905-9}} Tamil Sangam literature Patiṟṟuppattu mentions that the region was ruled by the Cheras, one of the three kingdoms of ancient Tamilakam, in the Sangam period (3rd century BCE to 3rd century CE).{{cite book|title=Social and Cultural History of Tamil Nadu: From AD 1336 To AD 1984|first=N.|last=Subrahmanian|year=1994|page=37|publisher=University of Michigan}}

The islands have been known to sailors since at least 1st century CE, as indicated in the Periplus of the Erythraean Sea. It contains an anonymous reference to the islands off the coast of Damirica as a source of a turtle shell.{{cite encyclopedia|title=Lakshadweep|url=https://www.britannica.com/EBchecked/topic/328296/Lakshadweep/46340/History|encyclopedia=Britannica|access-date=2 August 2012|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20130228225201/https://www.britannica.com/EBchecked/topic/328296/Lakshadweep/46340/History|archive-date=28 February 2013|url-status=live|df=dmy-all}}{{cite journal|url=https://www.researchgate.net/publication/27668572|title=Marine investigations in the Lakshadweep islands|first=Sila|last=Tripathi|doi=10.1017/S0003598X0006556X|year=1999|pages=827–835|journal=Antiquity|volume=73|issue=282|s2cid=162466780|access-date=1 February 2024|archive-date=20 June 2024|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240620081853/https://www.researchgate.net/publication/27668572_Marine_investigations_in_the_Lakshadweep_Islands_India|url-status=live}} In 2nd century CE, Greek historian Ptolemy mentions 1378 islands located opposite to Taprobane (Sri Lanka) with the names of some of the islands given as Kanathara (Kavaratti), Argidion (Agatti), Ammine (Amini), and Monache (Minicoy). The islands later became part of a trade route with the Roman empire, with archeological evidence from as early as 2nd century CE obtained from Kadamath and Androth islands. Other travelers and historians such as Ammianus Marcellinus (4th century CE), Faxian (5th century CE), and Cosmas (6th century CE) mention the islands in their writings.

Local traditions attribute the first settlement on the islands to Cheraman Perumal, the last Chera king of Kerala, though no historical evidence exists apart from the presence of ancient Hindu social stratification. According to local tradition, Islam was brought to the islands by Ubaidullah in 661 CE, whose purported grave is located in the Andrott island.{{cite web|title=History of Lakshadweep|url=https://lakshadweep.gov.in/about-lakshadweep/history/|work=Government of India|access-date=25 May 2021|archive-date=15 November 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20211115024639/https://lakshadweep.gov.in/about-lakshadweep/history/|url-status=live}} Inscriptions from Vayalur (in Tamil Nadu) indicates a naval battle fought during the reign of Narasimhavarman II (680-720 CE), which resulted in the capture of the territory by the Pallavas of Kanchi in the late 7th century CE. Epigraphs indicate the capture of the region of Kavadi Dvepa (presumably Kavaratti) by the Kadambas in the 10th century CE. In the 11th century CE, the islands came under the rule of the Cholas.{{cite book|first=A Sreedhara|last=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=978-8-12641-578-6|page=138}} Chola inscriptions from Thanjavur, indicate that the region was captured by Rajendra Chola I in 1018-19 CE.{{cite book|last=Hultzsch|first=E.|chapter-url=https://archive.org/details/in.gov.ignca.79603/page/n115/mode/2up?view=theater|title=South Indian Inscriptions: Tamil Inscriptions of Rajaraja, Rajendra Chola and Others in the Rajarajesvara Temple at Tanjavur|publisher=Superintendent, Government Press|year=1991|volume=2|location=Chennai|pages=109|language=Tamil|chapter=Inscriptions on the walls of the central shrine|author-link=E. Hultzsch|access-date=21 September 2022|issue=1}}{{cite book|last=Sastri|first=Nilakanta|chapter-url=https://archive.org/details/in.gov.ignca.4293/page/n229/mode/2up?view=theater|title=The Cholas|publisher=G. S. Press|year=1955|edition=2nd|location=Chennai|pages=211–213|chapter=Rajendra (A.D. 1012-1044)|author-link=K. A. Nilakanta Sastri}} In the late 11th century CE, it became part of a small Hindu kingdom before being passed on to the Kingdom of Kannur in early 12th century CE. The islands are mentioned in the writings of travelers Marco Polo and Ibn Battuta in the 13th-14th century CE.{{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.}}

File:Admiralty Chart No 827 Vengurla to Cape Comorin, Published 1877, New Edition 1914.jpg

In the late 15th century CE, the islands came under the control of the Portuguese as a source of coir for their industries. The native islanders revolted against the Portuguese and expelled them in 1545 CE.{{cite book|first=Charles|last=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=978-1-568-36249-6}} In the mid 16th century CE, all inhabited islands were conferred as jagir (land grant) to the ruling family of Kannur by the Chirakkal family of Kolathiri to grant protection from the Portuguese.{{cite book|url=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|title=The imperial gazetteer of India (Volume 8)|access-date=8 June 2021|archive-date=13 June 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210613084645/https://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|url-status=live}}{{cite book|last1=Menon|first1=A. Sreedhara|title=Kerala Charitram|year=2007|publisher=DC Books|location=Kottayam|isbn=978-8-126-41588-5|edition=2007}} The Aminidivi islands came under the rule of Tipu Sultan of Mysore Kingdom in 1787 CE and were later annexed to the British Raj in 1799 CE after the Fourth Anglo-Mysore War. The rest of the islands remained under the suzerainty of the Arakkal family in return for a payment of annual tribute to the British.{{cite book|title=Malabar Manual (Volume-I)|last=Logan|first=William|publisher=Asian Educational Services|year=2010|isbn=978-8-120-60447-6|location=New Delhi}} The British took over the administration of these islands in 1908 CE, citing the nonpayment of taxes, and attached it to the Madras Presidency.{{cite book|last=Logan|first=William|title=Malabar Manual|year=1887|publisher=Asian Education Services|location=New Delhi|isbn=978-8-120-60446-9|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}}

{{see|Scramble for Laccadives}}

After Indian Independence from colonial British rule in 1947, the islands became part of the Dominion of India, and later came under the administration of the Madras State after the Constitution of India was enacted in 1950.{{cite act|title=Constitution of India|chapter=Parliament of India|year=1950|url=https://cdnbbsr.s3waas.gov.in/s380537a945c7aaa788ccfcdf1b99b5d8f/uploads/2023/05/2023050195.pdf|work=Government of India|access-date=31 December 2023}} Following the States Reorganisation Act (1956), the islands, which were earlier divided between the South Canara and Malabar districts of the Madras state, were organized into a separate union territory administered by the Government of India.{{cite book|year=1953|title=1951 Census Handbook- South Canara District|publisher=Madras Government Press|url=https://censusindia.gov.in/nada/index.php/catalog/30068/download/33249/7746_1951.pdf|access-date=8 June 2021|archive-date=14 June 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210614073046/http://lsi.gov.in:8081/jspui/bitstream/123456789/6023/1/7746_1951.pdf|url-status=live}}{{cite report|url=https://thc.nic.in/Central%20Governmental%20Acts/States%20Re-Organisation%20Act,%201956.pdf|title=States Reorganisation Act, 1956|work=Government of India|access-date=16 September 2023|archive-date=29 September 2023|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230929014519/https://thc.nic.in/Central%20Governmental%20Acts/States%20Re-Organisation%20Act,%201956.pdf|url-status=live}} The Laccadive, Minicoy, and Amindivi Islands were collectively renamed as the Lakshadweep islands on 1 November 1973. The headquarters of the union territory remained at Kozhikode until 1964, when the seat of the Administrator was shifted to Kavaratti.{{cite book|title=District Census Handbook -Laccadive, Minicoy, and Amindivi Islands (1971) - Village Directory|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=https://censusindia.gov.in/nada/index.php/catalog/32639/download/35820/26141_1971_LAC.pdf|access-date=25 May 2021|archive-date=25 May 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210525043749/https://censusindia.gov.in/nada/index.php/catalog/32639/download/35820/26141_1971_LAC.pdf|url-status=live}} The territory has developed into a key Indian naval establishment due to its strategic location near vital shipping lanes from India to the Middle East.{{cite news|url=https://www.thehindu.com/news/national/kerala/navy-commissions-fullscale-station-in-lakshadweep/article3370886.ece|title=Navy commissions full-scale station in Lakshadweep|newspaper=The Hindu|date=1 May 2012|access-date=1 May 2023|archive-date=4 April 2023|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230404023706/https://www.thehindu.com/news/national/kerala/navy-commissions-fullscale-station-in-lakshadweep/article3370886.ece|url-status=live}}

{{Multiple image|total_width = 400

| image1 = Lakshadweep.jpg

| caption1 = Satellite image showing the atolls of Lakshadweep, except Minicoy

| image2 = ISS002-E-7260.PNG

| caption2 = Image of Maliku Atoll with Minicoy island visible

}}

File:LakshadweepIsland.jpg, an uninhabited island, is covered with coconut palms]]

File:Green_turtle_Lakshadweep.jpg in the Laccadive Sea]]

Lakshadweep is an archipelago of 36 islands and islets that includes 12 atolls, three reefs, and five submerged banks.{{cite book|title=Islands Of India|author=Sarit Kumar Mukerji|isbn=978-8-123-02285-7|publisher=Ministry of Information & Broadcasting, Government of India|url=https://books.google.com/books?id=EZaZDQAAQBAJ|access-date=1 June 2024|archive-date=20 June 2024|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240620081727/https://www.google.co.in/books/edition/Islands_Of_India/EZaZDQAAQBAJ|url-status=live}} The islands occupy a total land area of approximately {{cvt|32.62|km2}} and only ten of the islands are inhabited. The islands are located between the Arabian Sea to the west and the Laccadive Sea to the east, about {{cvt|220-440|km}} off the Malabar Coast of mainland India. The territory is divided into three island subgroups: the Amindivi islands in the north, the Laccadive islands in the East (separated from Amindivi by the 11th parallel north), and the atoll of Minicoy to the south of the Nine Degree Channel.{{cite book|title=Prostar Sailing Directions for India & Bay of Bengal En-route|publisher=National Geo spatial-intelligence Agency|year=2005|page=101|isbn=978-1-577-85662-7}} The islands have a {{cvt|132|km}} long coastline with a lagoon area of {{cvt|4200|km2}}, territorial waters of {{cvt|20000|km2}}, and an exclusive economic zone of {{cvt|400000|km2}}.{{cite web|url=https://lakshadweep.gov.in/islands/|title=Islands of Lakshadweep|work=Government of India|access-date=1 December 2023|archive-date=21 November 2023|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231121014032/https://lakshadweep.gov.in/islands/|url-status=live}}

Lakshadweep is the northernmost island group of the exposed undersea mountain range, the Chagos-Lakshadweep Ridge.{{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}} While there are no conclusive theories about the formation of the atolls, Charles Darwin proposed in 1842 CE that the subsidence of a volcanic island resulted in the formation of a fringing reef, which grew upwards with continual subsidence. The individual islands are small, with none of them measuring more than {{cvt|1|mi}} across. Most inhabited islands are situated on the eastern side of Lakshadweep and away from the low-lying lagoons to the West. The soil is generally sandy, derived from coral. According to a 2017 report, the Parali I island of Bangaram atoll has eroded and is completely inundated. Four other islands in the atoll also show various degrees of erosion: Parali II (80%), Thinnakara (14.4%), Parali III (11.4%), and Bangaram (9.9%).

The islands have a tropical monsoon climate, bordering on a tropical savanna climate. The weather is warm throughout the year with temperatures ranging from 20 to 32 degree Celsius. While tropical cyclones arising in the Arabian Sea rarely strike the islands due to its smaller size, winds and waves associated with them could alter the features of the islands considerably.

{{Weather box

|location=Lakshadweep 1981–2010, extremes 1996–2012

|metric first=Y

|single line=Y

|width=auto

|Jan record high C=35.3

|Feb record high C=35.3

|Mar record high C=38.0

|Apr record high C=37.8

|May record high C=37.0

|Jun record high C=37.8

|Jul record high C=32.7

|Aug record high C=34.8

|Sep record high C=33.3

|Oct record high C=35.0

|Nov record high C=35.0

|Dec record high C=36.3

|year record high C=38.0

|Jan high C=31.2

|Feb high C=31.5

|Mar high C=32.4

|Apr high C=33.2

|May high C=32.8

|Jun high C=31.1

|Jul high C=30.4

|Aug high C=30.5

|Sep high C=30.5

|Oct high C=30.9

|Nov high C=31.4

|Dec high C=31.3

|year high C=31.4

|Jan low C=25.8

|Feb low C=26.0

|Mar low C=27.0

|Apr low C=28.1

|May low C=27.6

|Jun low C=25.9

|Jul low C=25.7

|Aug low C=25.8

|Sep low C=25.8

|Oct low C=26.1

|Nov low C=26.1

|Dec low C=25.9

|year low C=26.3

|Jan record low C=22.5

|Feb record low C=23.5

|Mar record low C=24.2

|Apr record low C=23.2

|May record low C=22.1

|Jun record low C=22.3

|Jul record low C=22.7

|Aug record low C=22.5

|Sep record low C=22.7

|Oct record low C=22.2

|Nov record low C=22.1

|Dec record low C=22.8

|year record low C=22.1

|rain colour=green

|Jan rain mm=8.3

|Feb rain mm=2.0

|Mar rain mm=0.5

|Apr rain mm=5.6

|May rain mm=85.1

|Jun rain mm=260.5

|Jul rain mm=400.1

|Aug rain mm=395.5

|Sep rain mm=309.6

|Oct rain mm= 99.1

|Nov rain mm= 27.5

|Dec rain mm= 9.1

|year rain mm= 1602.9

|Jan rain days=2.1

|Feb rain days=0.9

|Mar rain days=0.1

|Apr rain days=0.4

|May rain days=6.5

|Jun rain days=16.0

|Jul rain days=16.1

|Aug rain days=12.5

|Sep rain days=10.0

|Oct rain days=9.3

|Nov rain days=5.5

|Dec rain days=2.4

|year rain days=79.5

|time day=17:30 IST

|Jan humidity=69

|Feb humidity=68

|Mar humidity=67

|Apr humidity=67

|May humidity=72

|Jun humidity=79

|Jul humidity=80

|Aug humidity=78

|Sep humidity=78

|Oct humidity=77

|Nov humidity=75

|Dec humidity=70

|year humidity=73

|source 1=India Meteorological Department{{cite report|archiveurl=https://web.archive.org/web/20200205040301/http://imdpune.gov.in/library/public/1981-2010%20CLIM%20NORMALS%20%28STATWISE%29.pdf|archivedate=5 February 2020|url=http://imdpune.gov.in/library/public/1981-2010%20CLIM%20NORMALS%20%28STATWISE%29.pdf|title=Station: Agatti (A) Climatology Table 1981–2010|work=India Meteorological Department|date=January 2015|pages=7–8|access-date=29 February 2020}}{{cite report|archiveurl=https://web.archive.org/web/20200205042509/http://imdpune.gov.in/library/public/EXTREMES%20OF%20TEMPERATURE%20and%20RAINFALL%20upto%202012.pdf|archive-date=5 February 2020|url=http://imdpune.gov.in/library/public/EXTREMES%20OF%20TEMPERATURE%20and%20RAINFALL%20upto%202012.pdf|title=Extremes of Temperature & Rainfall for Indian Stations (Up to 2012)|work=India Meteorological Department|date=December 2016|page=M112|access-date=29 February 2020}}

}}

File:Ducks_on_a_beach_at_Kavaratti,_Lakshadweep.jpgs in Kavaratti]]

File:Blue tang surgeonfish.jpg in the Laccadive Sea]]

Lakshadweep is part of the Maldives-Lakshadweep-Chagos Archipelago tropical moist forests ecoregion.{{WWF ecoregion|id=im0125|name=Maldives-Lakshadweep-Chagos Archipelago tropical moist forests}} There are no forests on the islands.{{cite report|url=https://dcmsme.gov.in/old/dips/Lakshadweep%20Profile.pdf|title=Lakshadweep profile|publisher=Government of India|access-date=1 December 2023|archive-date=8 January 2024|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240108162838/https://dcmsme.gov.in/old/dips/Lakshadweep%20Profile.pdf|url-status=live}} Nearly 400 species of flowering plants have been documented, including three species of sea grasses Cymodocea isoetifolia, Syringodium isoetifolium and Thalassia hemprichii, other angiosperms such as Pandanus, Heliotropium foertherianum, Tournefortia argentea and Pemphis acidula, fungi, algae, and lichens. The common flora of the atolls include coconut groves and coastal shrubs such as Pemphis acidula, Cordia subcordata, Scaevola taccada, Thespesia populnea, Suriana maritima, Dodonaea viscosa, Guettarda speciosa, and seaweeds such as sea lettuces, Codium, and Hypena.{{cite journal|last1=Rao|first1=T.A.|first2=J.L.|last2=Ellis|title=Flora of Lakshadweep Islands off the Malabar coast, peninsular India, with emphasis on phytogeographical distribution of plants|journal=Journal of Economic and Taxonomic Botany|volume=19|pages=235–250|year=1995}}

There are over 600 recorded species of marine fishes, 78 species of corals, 82 species of seaweed, 52 species of crabs, 2 species of lobsters, 48 species of gastropods, and 12 species of bivalves.{{cite web|title=Biodiversity and Environment Protection|url=http://lakshadweep.nic.in/documents/planning/14.pdf|publisher=Planning Commission of India|access-date=3 August 2012|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120505100605/http://lakshadweep.nic.in/documents/planning/14.pdf|archive-date=5 May 2012|url-status=dead|df=dmy-all}}{{cite journal|last=Khan|first=Asif N|date=2017|title=First Record of Oriental Pratincole Glareola Maldivarum From Lakshadweep Archipelago|url=http://www.bnhsjournal.org/index.php/bnhs/article/view/114164|journal=Journal of the Bombay Natural History Society|volume=114|access-date=6 February 2018|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180831215307/http://bnhsjournal.org/index.php/bnhs/article/view/114164|archive-date=31 August 2018|url-status=usurped|df=dmy-all}} It is one of the four coral reef regions in India.{{cite report|title=Lakshadweep Development Report|url=http://lakshadweep.nic.in/documents/Presentation/Depts/11.pdf|work=Department of Environment and Forests (Union Territory of Lakshadweep)|access-date=3 August 2012|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20130425132255/http://lakshadweep.nic.in/documents/Presentation/Depts/11.pdf|archive-date=25 April 2013|url-status=dead|df=dmy-all}}

Cetacean diversity off the Lakshadweep Islands and in adjacent areas include various whales (e.g., pygmy blue, Bryde's, sperm, orca, pilot whale), and dolphins.{{cite web|work=The Marine Mammal Conservation Network of India|url=http://www.marinemammals.in/index.php/database/sightings-strandings/details/1/4235|title=Sightings and Strandings - Bryde's whale|access-date=19 April 2017|archive-date=19 April 2017|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170419193352/http://www.marinemammals.in/index.php/database/sightings-strandings/details/1/4235|url-status=live}}{{cite web|work=The Marine Mammal Conservation Network of India|url=http://www.marinemammals.in/index.php/database/sightings-strandings/details/1/4668|title=Sightings and Strandings - Killer whale|access-date=19 April 2017|archive-date=19 April 2017|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170419200257/http://www.marinemammals.in/index.php/database/sightings-strandings/details/1/4668|url-status=live}}{{cite web|last=Panicker|first=D.|url=http://www.rufford.org/projects/divya_panicker|title=Cetacean Diversity and Distribution in the Lakshadweep Islands, India|work=Rufford Foundation|access-date=19 April 2017|archive-date=19 April 2017|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170419195138/http://www.rufford.org/projects/divya_panicker|url-status=live}} The commonly seen are introduced cattle and poultry. Other notable marine fauna include sharks, bonitos, tunas, snappers, flying fish, Manta rays, octopuses, crabs, and turtles. There are 101 species of birds, common amongst them include the brown noddy and sooty tern and water birds such as herons, teals, and gulls. Pitti island is a declared bird sanctuary and an important breeding place for sea turtles and a number of pelagic birds including the brown noddy, lesser crested tern, and greater crested tern.{{cite web|title=The Wild Life (Protection) Act, 1972|url=http://lakshadweep.nic.in/depts/forest/wildlife_(protection)act.htm|work=Department of Environment and Forests (Union Territory of Lakshadweep)|access-date=5 August 2012|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20130425154656/http://lakshadweep.nic.in/depts/forest/wildlife_(protection)act.htm|archive-date=25 April 2013|url-status=live|df=dmy-all}}

File:Map of Lakshadweep-en.svg

{{Multiple image|total_width = 600| perrow = 2

| image1 = ISS021-E-5116 - View of Lakshadweep.jpg

| caption1 = Bitra Island

| image2 = Kiltan 20150107081937 mobile camera seen from chopper kiltan.jpg

| caption2 = Kadmat Island

| image3 = Kavaratii.jpg

| caption3 = Kavaratti Island

| image4 = Viringili.jpg

| caption4 = Viringili Island

}}

Lakshadweep is a Union Territory and is governed by an administrator on behalf of the Government of India.{{cite book|title=Dynamics of New Panchayati Raj System in India|author=G. Palanithurai|year=2002|isbn=978-8-180-69129-4|publisher=Concept Publishing Company|page=37}}{{cite web|url=https://www.india.gov.in/my-government/whos-who/lt-governors-administrators|title=Lt Governors and Administrators|work=Government of India|access-date=1 December 2023|archive-date=30 May 2023|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230530075832/https://www.india.gov.in/my-government/whos-who/lt-governors-administrators|url-status=live}} It was established in 1956 and constitutes a single Indian district.{{cite book|title=Annual Analysis Of Competitiveness, Simulation Studies And Development Perspective For 35 States And Federal Territories Of India: 2000-2010|author1=Khee Giap Tan|author2=Linda Low|author3=Kong Yam Tan|author4=Vittal Kartik Rao|year=2013|publisher=World Scientific Publishing Company|page=546}} The headquarters of the union territory were at Kozhikode until 1964, when the seat of the administrator of the islands was shifted to Kavaratti. Since then, the administration secretariat is based in Kavaratti.{{cite web|url=https://lakshadweep.gov.in/about-lakshadweep/administrative-setup/subdivision-blocks/|title=Subdivision and blocks|work=Government of India|access-date=1 August 2023|archive-date=5 July 2023|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230705150044/https://lakshadweep.gov.in/about-lakshadweep/administrative-setup/subdivision-blocks/|url-status=live}}{{cite book|title=Kalpeni Island: History, People and Culture|author=C.G.Pookoya|year=2018|isbn=978-1-642-49960-5|publisher=Notion Press}}

The territory is divided into ten administrative sub-divisions headed by sub-divisional officers, except the Minicoy and Agatti islands which are headed by deputy collectors.{{cite web|url=https://lakshadweep.gov.in/about-lakshadweep/administrative-setup/|title=Administrative setup|work=Government of India|access-date=1 August 2023|archive-date=5 July 2023|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230705174235/https://lakshadweep.gov.in/about-lakshadweep/administrative-setup/|url-status=live}}{{cite book|title=Geomorphology and Physical Oceanography of the Lakshadweep Coral Islands in the Indian Ocean|author1=T.N. Prakash|author2=L. Sheela Nair|author3=T.S. Shahul Hameed|year=2014|isbn=978-3-319-12367-7|publisher=Springer International|page=9}} The ten inhabited islands have village panchayats consisting of a total of 88 members across islands. These panchayats are combined to form a district panchayat, which has 26 elected members including the chairpersons of the ten village panchayats and the Member of Parliament for Lakshadweep Lok Sabha Constituency.{{cite web|url=https://lakshadweep.gov.in/district-panchayath/|title=District Panchayath|work=Government of India|access-date=1 August 2023|archive-date=16 May 2022|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220516195003/https://lakshadweep.gov.in/district-panchayath/|url-status=live}} The territory is also divided into five community development blocks: Kavaratti, Amini, Andrott, Minicoy and Kiltan, each administered by Collector-cum-Development Commissioner, who is in charge of revenue and land settlement in their respective block. The commissioner also serves as a District magistrate and is assisted by an additional district magistrate and ten executive magistrates for enforcement of law and order. The administrator acts as the Inspector General of Police and has command and control of the Lakshadweep Police, which has a sanctioned strength of 349 personnel across nine police stations.

The territory elects one member to the lower house of the Indian parliament, the Lok Sabha.{{cite web|title=Our Parliament|url=https://www.mea.gov.in/Uploads/PublicationDocs/19167_State_wise_seats_in_Lok_Sabha_18-03-2009.pdf|work=Government of India|access-date=1 August 2024}}{{cite news|url=https://www.indiatoday.in/elections/lok-sabha/story/lakshadweep-lok-sabha-election-results-2024-full-list-of-winners-2547112-2024-06-04|title=Lakshadweep Lok Sabha Election results 2024: Full list of winners|date=4 June 2024|access-date=11 June 2024|work=India Today|archive-date=5 June 2024|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240605175048/https://www.indiatoday.in/elections/lok-sabha/story/lakshadweep-lok-sabha-election-results-2024-full-list-of-winners-2547112-2024-06-04|url-status=live}} Lakshadweep is a reserved constituency for Scheduled Tribes.{{cite web|title=Constituency {{!}} Lakshadweep {{!}} India|url=https://lakshadweep.gov.in/about-lakshadweep/administrative-setup/constituencies/|work=Government of India|access-date=1 August 2023|archive-date=5 July 2023|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230705091420/https://lakshadweep.gov.in/about-lakshadweep/administrative-setup/constituencies/|url-status=live}} The union territory falls under the judicial jurisdiction of the Kerala High Court at Kochi, and has a system of lower courts under its authority. There is a district and sessions court in Kavaratti (established in 1997) and two munsiff courts in Andrott and Amini islands.{{cite web|title=Judicial Setup|url=https://lakshadweep.gov.in/about-lakshadweep/administrative-setup/judicial-setup/|work=Government of India|access-date=1 August 2023|archive-date=5 July 2023|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230705133118/https://lakshadweep.gov.in/about-lakshadweep/administrative-setup/judicial-setup/|url-status=live}}{{cite book|title=Criminal Justice India Series: Lakshadweep|author=D. Banerjea|year=2002|isbn=978-8-177-64872-0|publisher=Allied Publishers|page=82}}

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According to the 2011 census, Lakshadweep has a population of 64,473, consisting of 33,123 (51.3%) males and 31,350 (48.7%) females, and had a sex ratio of 946 females per 1,000 males in 2011.{{cite report|title=Census of India, provisional results|url=https://censusindia.gov.in/nada/index.php/catalog/42611/download/46274/Census%20of%20India%202011-Provisional%20Population%20Totals.pdf|work=Government of India|access-date=13 April 2024}} It also recorded the highest sex ratio at birth amongst Indian territories as per the National Family Health Survey (NFHS) in 2021.{{cite press release|date=17 December 2021|publisher=Ministry of Health and Family Welfare, Government of India|title=Update on Child Sex Ratio|url=https://pib.gov.in/PressReleasePage.aspx?PRID=1782601|access-date=16 January 2023|archive-date=22 September 2023|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230922222826/https://pib.gov.in/PressReleasePage.aspx?PRID=1782601|url-status=live}} As per the 2011 census, there were a total of 11,574 households and about 50,332 (78%) of the population lived in urban areas. As per the NSO survey in 2017, the literacy rate was 92.28%, the second highest amongst all Indian territories.{{cite report|title=Household Social Consumption on Education in India|url=https://mospi.gov.in/sites/default/files/publication_reports/Report_585_75th_round_Education_final_1507_0.pdf|work=Government of India|year=2018|access-date=30 November 2020|archive-date=7 January 2012|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120107060612/http://censusindia.gov.in/2011-prov-results/prov_data_products_wb.html|url-status=live}} As per the NFHS, the fertility rate was 1.4, significantly below the national average of 2.0.{{cite report|title=National Family Health Survey (NFHS-5)|url=https://dhsprogram.com/pubs/pdf/FR375/FR375.pdf|work=Government of India|access-date=25 November 2023}}

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|title=Religion in Lakshadweep (2011){{cite report|title=Population by religion community – 2011|url=https://censusindia.gov.in/nada/index.php/catalog/11361/download/14474/DDW00C-01%20MDDS.XLS|publisher=Government of India|access-date=1 December 2023|archive-date=24 December 2023|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231224183408/https://censusindia.gov.in/nada/index.php/catalog/11361/download/14474/DDW00C-01%20MDDS.XLS|url-status=live}}

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{{bar percent|Islam|green|96.58}}

{{bar percent|Hinduism|darkorange|2.77}}

{{bar percent|Christianity|blue|0.49}}

{{bar percent|Others|black|0.16}}

}}

Islam (96.6%) is the major religion of people of the islands with Sunni Islam being the predominant denomination, followed by Hinduism (2.8%) and Christianity (0.5%).{{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=978-1-438-45601-0|pages=368|access-date=3 August 2021|archive-date=6 January 2024|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240106123921/https://books.google.com/books?id=TC6zCAAAQBAJ|url-status=live}} Most settlers of the islands are descendants of migrants from the Malabar coast of Southwest India and are ethnically similar to the Mappilas of Kerala.{{cite news|url=https://indianexpress.com/article/research/lakshadweep-an-isolated-island-that-became-a-melting-pot-of-cultures-7341984/|title=Lakshadweep: An isolated island that became a melting pot of cultures|date=3 June 2021|access-date=1 June 2024|newspaper=The Indian Express|archive-date=25 January 2024|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240125164057/https://indianexpress.com/article/research/lakshadweep-an-isolated-island-that-became-a-melting-pot-of-cultures-7341984/|url-status=live}}{{cite web|url=https://lakshadweep.gov.in/about-lakshadweep/culture-heritage/|title=Lakshadweep-Culture and Heritage|work=Government of India|access-date=25 May 2021|archive-date=15 November 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20211115024708/https://lakshadweep.gov.in/about-lakshadweep/culture-heritage/|url-status=live}} According to local tradition, Islam was brought to the islands by Ubaidullah in 661 CE. Although Islam is the predominant religion currently, the earliest settlers were probably Hindus, evidenced by the current social stratification and matrilineal kinship system in Lakshadweep. The southernmost island of Minicoy is populated by the Mahls, an ethnic group also resident in the Maldives.{{cite news|url=https://www.thenewsminute.com/features/lakshadweeps-minicoy-island-kingdom-women-52786|title=Lakshadweep's Minicoy Island, a kingdom for women|date=12 November 2016|access-date=1 June 2024|work=News Minute|archive-date=20 June 2024|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240620081729/https://www.thenewsminute.com/features/lakshadweeps-minicoy-island-kingdom-women-52786|url-status=live}}

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|title=Languages of Lakshadweep (2011){{cite report|url=https://censusindia.gov.in/nada/index.php/catalog/10191/download/13303/DDW-C16-STMT-MDDS-0000.XLSX|title=2011 Census of India, Population By Mother Tongue|work=Government of India|access-date=16 January 2024}}

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{{bar percent|Malayalam (Jeseri)|midnightblue|84.17}}

{{bar percent|Dhivehi (Mahl)|red|14.44}}

{{bar percent|Others|grey|1.39}}

}}

English is the official language of the union territory. Jeseri (also known as Dweep Basha), a dialect of Malayalam, is widely spoken language in the Amindivi and Laccadive islands. Mahl, a dialect of Dhivehi, is spoken in Minicoy.{{cite book|title=The Many Faces of India: A Portrait of Its People, Places, and Heritage|author=Pardeep Patel|page=131|url=https://books.google.com/books?id=sXO4EAAAQBAJ|access-date=1 June 2024|archive-date=20 June 2024|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240620082345/https://www.google.co.in/books/edition/The_Many_Faces_of_India_A_Portrait_of_It/sXO4EAAAQBAJ|url-status=live}}{{cite book|title=Lakshadweep Pradesikabhasha Nighandu (Translation: Lakshadweep Regional Language Dictionary), Editor: Dr. Koyammakoya M.|isbn=978-8-192-28229-9|last1=Kōyammakkōya|first1=Eṃ|year=2012|publisher=Sāhityapr̲avarttaka Sahakaraṇasaṅghaṃ, Nāṣaṇal Bukkȧ St̲āḷ }} There are minor variations of the same dialect across islands.{{cite book|title=India, a reference annual|year=2004|publisher=Government of India|isbn=978-8-123-01156-1|page=851}}

Malayalam, written in the Malayalam script, was introduced as the primary language of Lakshadweep during the British Raj. This policy has been continued since independence, with Malayalam serving as a link language on all islands, including Minicoy.{{cite book |last1=Jha |first1=Makhan |title=The Muslim Tribes of Lakshadweep Islands: An Anthropological Appraisal |publisher=M.D. Publications |year=1997 |isbn=978-8-175-33032-0}} Previously, a type of Arabic script, known as the Ponnani or Arabi Malayalam script, was used as the writing system.{{cite book|last=Subramoniam|first=V. I.|year=1997|title=Dravidian Encyclopaedia. Vol. 3, Language and literature|location=Thiruvananthapuram|publisher=International School of Dravidian Linguistics|pages=508–509|isbn=818569222X}}

File:India Tree.jpgs on the islands are commercially important]]

The economy is dependent on agriculture, fishery, and tourism. {{As of|2013}}, there were 72 registered micro and small industries majorly involved in the public sector, and the manufacture of food products and furniture. With a minimal arable land of 2.58 hectares, the major agriculture produce is coconuts. The major exports from Lakshadweep are coconut products including coconut fibre (coir) and fishes.{{cite magazine|url=https://www.outlooktraveller.com/editors-picks/the-ecological-implications-of-lakshadweeps-new-found-popularity|title=The Ecological Implications Of Lakshadweep's New-Found Popularity|date=11 January 2024|access-date=1 June 2024|magazine=Outlook|archive-date=1 May 2024|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240501080320/https://www.outlooktraveller.com/editors-picks/the-ecological-implications-of-lakshadweeps-new-found-popularity|url-status=live}} The government runs five coir factories, five production demonstration centers, and seven curling units that produce coir fiber, yarn and mats.{{cite report|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|work=Reserve Bank of India|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}}

File:Bangaram_Island,_Lakshadweep_20160325-_DSC1780.jpg is being promoted as a tourist destination]]

With a vast lagoon area and an exclusive economic zone of {{cvt|400,000|km2}}, fishing is a major industry. The estimated annual production is 21,016 tonnes of which 60% is tuna and related fishes. About 60% of the total production is converted to dried products and 40% is allocated for local consumption.{{cite web|url=https://lakshadweep.gov.in/departments/fisheries-2/|title=Fisheries|work=Government of India|access-date=1 December 2023|archive-date=11 June 2023|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230611002428/https://lakshadweep.gov.in/departments/fisheries-2/|url-status=live}} Commercial fishing is concentrated around 11 islands with skipjack tuna and yellowfin tuna being the only commercial varieties. The government runs a tuna canning factory in the islands. Fishing is carried out using mechanized fishing boats, traditional country crafts, and country crafts fitted with outboard motors.{{cite news|url=https://www.timesnownews.com/travel/destinations/5-things-to-do-in-lakshadweep-in-2024-pm-modi-article-106546638|title=Seeking new horizons: Adoption of deep-tech a game-changer for fisheries in Lakshadweep|date=28 May 2024|access-date=1 June 2024|work=Times Now|archive-date=4 January 2024|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240104124819/https://www.timesnownews.com/travel/destinations/5-things-to-do-in-lakshadweep-in-2024-pm-modi-article-106546638|url-status=live}}

Tourism in Lakshadweep began in 1974, when the Bangaram atoll was opened for international tourism.{{cite news|url=https://dnn24.com/lakshadweeps-tourism-renaissance-opening-the-isles-to-the-world-in-1974/|title=Lakshadweep's Tourism Renaissance: Opening the Isles to the World in 1974|work=DNN|access-date=10 January 2024|date=9 January 2024|archive-date=1 February 2024|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240201151522/https://dnn24.com/lakshadweeps-tourism-renaissance-opening-the-isles-to-the-world-in-1974/|url-status=live}}{{cite report|url=https://tourism.gov.in/sites/default/files/2020-07/Executive%20Summary%20Final%20Report%20%20Lakshadweep_2017%2018_Final%20Report_13March2019.pdf|title=Report on tourism|work=Government of India|access-date=1 December 2023|archive-date=9 April 2024|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240409111316/https://tourism.gov.in/sites/default/files/2020-07/Executive%20Summary%20Final%20Report%20%20Lakshadweep_2017%2018_Final%20Report_13March2019.pdf|url-status=live}} According to government statistics, 10,435 domestic tourists and 1,313 foreign tourists visited the islands in 2018.{{cite news|url=https://indianexpress.com/article/explained/explained-global/maldives-and-lakshadweep-9118096/|title=Maldives and Lakshadweep: How do the two groups of islands compare as tourism destinations?|date=29 January 2024|newspaper=The Indian Express|access-date=31 January 2024|archive-date=31 January 2024|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240131191707/https://indianexpress.com/article/explained/explained-global/maldives-and-lakshadweep-9118096/|url-status=live}} The government is promoting tourism as a means to increase the income of the local population, with Bangaram and Kadmat islands being promoted as potential tourist destinations. To promote tourism, activities such as scuba diving, wind surfing, snorkelling, surfing, kayaking, canoeing, water skiing, sportfishing, yachting and night sea voyages have been established.{{cite news|url=https://www.timesnownews.com/travel/destinations/5-things-to-do-in-lakshadweep-in-2024-pm-modi-article-106546638|title=Things to do in Lakshadweep|date=5 January 2024|access-date=1 June 2024|work=Times Now|archive-date=4 January 2024|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240104124819/https://www.timesnownews.com/travel/destinations/5-things-to-do-in-lakshadweep-in-2024-pm-modi-article-106546638|url-status=live}} Tourists require permission to visit Lakshadweep and foreign nationals are not permitted to visit certain islands.{{cite web|title=Entry Permits|url=https://lakshadweep.gov.in/tourism/entry-permit/|work=Government of India|access-date=1 December 2023|archive-date=7 January 2024|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240107225435/https://lakshadweep.gov.in/tourism/entry-permit/|url-status=live}} According to the current alcohol laws of India, alcoholic beverage consumption is not permitted on the islands, except on Bangaram.{{cite news|title=Introduction to Lakshadweep Islands|work=The New York Times|url=http://travel.nytimes.com/frommers/travel/guides/asia/india/kerala/lakshadweep-islands/frm_lakshadwee_3484010001.html|url-status=live|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|df=dmy-all}} In 2024, the government proposed further programmes to improve infrastructure and promote tourism.{{cite news|date=8 January 2024|title=Lakshadweep being discussed across the world after PM's visit, says its administrator|url=https://economictimes.indiatimes.com/industry/services/travel/lakshadweep-being-discussed-across-the-world-after-pms-visit-says-its-administrator/articleshow/106643423.cms|newspaper=The Economic Times|access-date=1 December 2023|archive-date=8 January 2024|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240108145009/https://economictimes.indiatimes.com/industry/services/travel/lakshadweep-being-discussed-across-the-world-after-pms-visit-says-its-administrator/articleshow/106643423.cms|url-status=live}} The potential negative effects of tourism on the environment and ecosystem of the islands are a subject of debate.{{cite news|last1=Salahuddin|title=How controversial development chokes India's archipelagos|url=https://frontline.thehindu.com/environment/how-a-conservation-development-clash-chokes-india-andaman-and-nicobar-and-lakshadweep-archipelagos/article67105341.ece|access-date=29 September 2023|work=Frontline|date=21 July 2023|archive-date=22 September 2023|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230922113133/https://frontline.thehindu.com/environment/how-a-conservation-development-clash-chokes-india-andaman-and-nicobar-and-lakshadweep-archipelagos/article67105341.ece|url-status=live}}

File:BSNL_Office_at_Kalpeni_Island_IMG_20190930_114924.jpg in the islands. Pictured is the office of state-owned BSNL in Kalpeni]]

There is no single power grid that connects Lakshadweep; independent power houses cater to the power requirements of the islands.{{cite web|url=https://lakshadweep.gov.in/departments/electricity/|title=Electricity in Lakshadweep|access-date=1 December 2023|work=Government of India|archive-date=11 December 2023|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231211164428/https://lakshadweep.gov.in/departments/electricity/|url-status=live}} Minicoy was the first island to be electrified in 1962, followed by Kavaratti in 1964 and others later, with Bitra being the last island to be electrified in 1982. Two diesel generators were established in 1962, which generate about 51.6 Kilo Watts of power. {{As of|2012}}, the islands have 41 diesel generators and 12 solar photovoltaic systems with a total installed capacity of 18.5 Mega Watts. In January 2024, a solar power plant was commissioned to augment the power generation capacity.{{cite news|url=https://energy.economictimes.indiatimes.com/news/renewable/pm-modi-inaugurates-lakshadweeps-on-grid-solar-project-with-advanced-battery-storage/106514089|title=PM Modi inaugurates Lakshadweep's on-grid solar project with advanced battery storage|date=3 January 2024|access-date=1 June 2024|newspaper=The Economic Times|archive-date=4 January 2024|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240104063245/https://energy.economictimes.indiatimes.com/news/renewable/pm-modi-inaugurates-lakshadweeps-on-grid-solar-project-with-advanced-battery-storage/106514089|url-status=live}}

The world's first ever experimental low-temperature thermal desalination plant opened in Kavaratti in 2005, with a projected daily production capacity of 100,000 litres of potable water from seawater. The plant utilises the temperature difference between warm surface seawater and much colder seawater at about {{cvt|500|m}} depth to generate potable water as well as energy.{{cite press release|title=World's first ever low temperature thermal desalination plant opened at Kavaratti|publisher=Ministry of Science and Technology (India), Government of India|date=23 May 2005|url=https://pib.gov.in/newsite/erelcontent.aspx?relid=9439|access-date=1 August 2012|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160307230658/http://pib.nic.in/newsite/erelcontent.aspx?relid=9439|archive-date=7 March 2016|url-status=live|df=dmy-all}}{{cite press release|title=One Million Litre Per Day (1 MLD) Barge Mounted Desalination Plant|publisher=Ministry of Science and Technology (India), Government of India|date=18 April 2007|url=http://pib.nic.in/newsite/erelcontent.aspx?relid=26958|access-date=1 August 2012|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160307091005/http://pib.nic.in/newsite/erelcontent.aspx?relid=26958|archive-date=7 March 2016|url-status=live|df=dmy-all}} The technology was developed at the National Institute of Ocean Technology and the government has announced plans to build three more such plants.{{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|newspaper=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}}

Mobile communication service is provided by state-owned BSNL across all inhabited islands and Airtel in Kavratti and Agatti islands.{{cite web|url=https://lakshadweep.gov.in/|title=About Lakshadweep|work=Government of India|access-date=1 August 2023|archive-date=22 June 2020|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200622045529/https://lakshadweep.gov.in/|url-status=live}}{{cite news|url=https://telecomtalk.info/lakshadweep-sees-the-addition-5g-bts-october2023/895280/|title=Lakshadweep Sees the Addition of 5G BTS in October 2023|date=13 November 2023|access-date=1 June 2024|work=Telecom Talk|archive-date=18 November 2023|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231118151810/https://telecomtalk.info/lakshadweep-sees-the-addition-5g-bts-october2023/895280/|url-status=live}} In 2020, the 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, which was inaugurated in January 2024.{{cite news|url=https://www.livemint.com/news/india/cabinet-approves-undersea-fibre-link-between-lakshadweep-islands-and-kochi-11607520516666.html|title=Cabinet approves undersea fibre link between Lakshadweep islands and Kochi|access-date=21 September 2021|work=Live Mint|date=9 December 2020|archive-date=21 September 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210921113801/https://www.livemint.com/news/india/cabinet-approves-undersea-fibre-link-between-lakshadweep-islands-and-kochi-11607520516666.html|url-status=live}}{{cite news|url=https://www.newindianexpress.com/nation/2024/Jan/03/lakshadweep-island-to-have-high-speed-internet-connectivity-as-pm-inaugurates-kochi-lakshadweep-isla-2647494.html|title=PM inaugurates project aiming to provide high-speed internet in Lakshadweep|date=3 January 2024|access-date=1 June 2024|newspaper=The New Indian Express|archive-date=10 January 2024|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240110173426/https://www.newindianexpress.com/nation/2024/jan/03/lakshadweep-island-to-have-high-speed-internet-connectivity-as-pm-inaugurates-kochi-lakshadweep-isla-2647494.html|url-status=live}} Post offices run by India Post provide mail service.

Lakshadweep is served by four hospitals with 200 beds, four primary health centers, and 14 sub-health centers operated by the government.

File:MV Amindivi 001.JPG

The only airport in the territory is Agatti Airport on Agatti Island.{{cite report|url=https://www.dgca.gov.in/digigov-portal/?page=jsp/dgca/InventoryList/aerodrome/public/PUBLIC%20USE%20LICENSED%20AERODROME%20(PUBLIC%20AND%20PRIVATE)%20AND%20HELIPORT%20-converted%20(1).pdf|title=List of Aerodromes Licensed in Public Use Category|work=Directorate General of Civil Aviation of India|access-date=11 October 2023|archive-date=26 January 2024|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240126130851/https://www.dgca.gov.in/digigov-portal/?page=jsp/dgca/InventoryList/aerodrome/public/PUBLIC%20USE%20LICENSED%20AERODROME%20(PUBLIC%20AND%20PRIVATE)%20AND%20HELIPORT%20-converted%20(1).pdf|url-status=live}}{{cite news|url=https://www.thehindu.com/news/national/kerala/flight-services-resume-at-agatti-after-technical-snag-delays-operations/article68186832.ece|title=Flight services resume at Agatti after technical snag delays operations|date=17 May 2024|access-date=1 June 2024|newspaper=The Hindu|archive-date=22 May 2024|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240522044914/https://www.thehindu.com/news/national/kerala/flight-services-resume-at-agatti-after-technical-snag-delays-operations/article68186832.ece|url-status=live}} The {{cvt|1.2|km}} runway is capable of serving small turboprop aircraft. The government announced a plan in early 2024 to extend the runway to enable it to handle larger narrow body aircraft and expand the infrastructure to convert the airport into dual-use for civilian and military purposes. The construction of a greenfield airport at Minicoy Island was also proposed.{{cite news|url=https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/india/lakshadweeps-lakshya-new-airport-more-hotels/articleshow/106677489.cms?from=mdr|title=Lakshadweep's lakshya: New airport|newspaper=The Times of India|date=10 January 2024|access-date=7 February 2024|archive-date=8 February 2024|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240208054133/https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/india/lakshadweeps-lakshya-new-airport-more-hotels/articleshow/106677489.cms?from=mdr|url-status=live}} Two helicopters are presently operated by Pawan Hans and are utilised for passenger transport and emergency medical evacuation from the islands.{{cite web|url=https://www.pawanhans.co.in/english/inner.aspx?status=4&menu_id=169|title=Pawan Hans services|publisher=Pawan Hans|access-date=1 December 2023|archive-date=28 November 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20211128183949/https://www.pawanhans.co.in/english/inner.aspx?status=4&menu_id=169|url-status=live}}{{cite news|url=https://indianexpress.com/article/india/baby-delivered-on-board-pawan-hans-chopper-on-medical-evacuation-flight-6794376/|title=Baby delivered on board Pawan Hans chopper on medical evacuation flight|newspaper=The Indian Express|date=20 October 2020|access-date=1 June 2023|archive-date=21 August 2022|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220821081155/https://indianexpress.com/article/india/baby-delivered-on-board-pawan-hans-chopper-on-medical-evacuation-flight-6794376/|url-status=live}}

{{As of|2019}}, there are {{cvt|228|km|abbr=on}} of paved roads and no railway in the territory.{{cite report|url=https://morth.nic.in/sites/default/files/Basic%20Road%20Statistics%20in%20India-2018-19.pdf|page=48|title=Road statistics|publisher=Government of India|access-date=1 August 2023|archive-date=20 June 2024|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240620082310/https://morth.nic.in/sites/default/files/Basic%20Road%20Statistics%20in%20India-2018-19.pdf|url-status=live}} Additional roads have been planned, including a peripheral road at Kavaratti and beach front roads at Kadamath and Agatti islands.

{{As of|2023}}, seven ships operate passenger services between Kochi and the islands, with seasonal boat/ferry services available between islands.{{cite web|url=https://lakshadweep.gov.in/how-to-reach/|title=Means of Transport|publisher=Government of India|access-date=1 August 2023|archive-date=22 June 2023|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230622051022/https://lakshadweep.gov.in/how-to-reach/|url-status=live}}{{cite news|url=https://www.thehindu.com/news/national/lakshadweep/adequate-travel-arrangements-in-place-for-islanders-says-lakshadweep-administration/article68039507.ece|title=Adequate travel arrangements in place for islanders, says Lakshadweep administration|date=8 April 2024|access-date=1 June 2024|newspaper=The Hindu|archive-date=17 April 2024|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240417182957/https://www.thehindu.com/news/national/lakshadweep/adequate-travel-arrangements-in-place-for-islanders-says-lakshadweep-administration/article68039507.ece|url-status=live}} In 2024, the government unveiled a plan to develop three ports at Androth, Kalpeni and Kadamath islands as a part of the Sagar Mala project.{{cite news|url=https://economictimes.indiatimes.com/news/india/laksha-for-dweep-3-6kcr-plan-to-turn-islands-in-tourist-hub/articleshow/107468457.cms|title=Laksha for Dweep: ₹3.6kcr plan to turn islands in tourist hub|newspaper=The Economic Times|date=7 February 2024|access-date=7 February 2024|archive-date=6 February 2024|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240206185313/https://economictimes.indiatimes.com/news/india/laksha-for-dweep-3-6kcr-plan-to-turn-islands-in-tourist-hub/articleshow/107468457.cms|url-status=live}} The ten inhabited island each have a minor port.{{cite report |url=https://dwiep.ncscm.res.in/images/port.pdf |title=Ports of India |publisher=Government of India |access-date=1 August 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230320115121/https://dwiep.ncscm.res.in/images/port.pdf |archive-date=20 March 2023 |url-status=live}} There are fifteen lighthouses on the islands, with the Minicoy Island Lighthouse (built in 1885) being the first modern lighthouse.{{cite web |title=Lighthouses |url=https://dgll.nic.in/DGLL-light-house-location/kochi |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230613100245/http://www.dgll.nic.in/DGLL-light-house-location/kochi |archive-date=13 June 2023 |access-date=1 August 2023 |publisher=Government of India}}{{cite web|url=https://minicoy.utl.gov.in/govt_offices/lighthouse|title=Minicoy Island Lighthouse|publisher=Government of India|access-date=1 August 2023|archive-date=2 February 2024|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240202060835/https://minicoy.utl.gov.in/govt_offices/lighthouse|url-status=live}}{{cite news|url=https://edition.mv/the_democrats/32149|title=Indian Navy to commission naval base in Minicoy island (Maliku) tomorrow|date=5 March 2024|access-date=1 June 2024|work=Edition|archive-date=20 June 2024|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240620082352/https://edition.mv/the_democrats/32149|url-status=live}}

The Indian Navy operates the INS Dweeprakshak naval base under the Southern Naval Command, commissioned in 2012.{{cite news|url=http://www.ndtv.com/article/india/indian-navy-gets-new-base-in-lakshadweep-islands-204332|title=Indian Navy gets new base in Lakshadweep islands|work=NDTV|date=30 April 2012|access-date=1 August 2023|archive-date=16 June 2013|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20130616134505/http://www.ndtv.com/article/india/indian-navy-gets-new-base-in-lakshadweep-islands-204332|url-status=live}}

The first public school was opened in Amini in 1904, followed by the establishment of elementary schools at Kiltan in 1911 and Kadmat in 1925.{{cite web|url=https://lakshadweep.gov.in/departments/education/|title=Education in Lakshadweep|work=Government of India|access-date=1 August 2023|archive-date=22 June 2023|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230622055413/https://lakshadweep.gov.in/departments/education/|url-status=live}} The first high schools were established in the 1960s in Amini and Kalpeni. {{As of|2023}}, there are 50 schools catering to 8,350 students.{{cite web|url=https://lakedn.utl.gov.in/|title=Schools in Lakshadweep|work=Government of India|access-date=1 August 2023|archive-date=4 October 2023|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231004102527/https://lakedn.utl.gov.in/|url-status=live}} There are four government colleges affiliated to Pondicherry University and two colleges and three university centers affiliated to Calicut University in the territory.{{cite news|url=https://thewire.in/education/lakshadweep-students-face-bureaucratic-battle-over-curriculum-claim-no-discussion-with-stakeholders|title=Lakshadweep Students Face Bureaucratic Battle Over Curriculum, Claim No Discussion With Stakeholders|date=28 December 2023|access-date=1 June 2024|newspaper=The Wire|archive-date=29 December 2023|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231229013653/https://thewire.in/education/lakshadweep-students-face-bureaucratic-battle-over-curriculum-claim-no-discussion-with-stakeholders|url-status=live}}{{cite news|url=https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/city/puducherry/pondicherry-university-allows-ug-diploma-courses-in-lakshadweep/articleshow/84698904.cms|title=Pondicherry University allows UG, diploma courses in Lakshadweep|date=24 January 2021|access-date=1 June 2023|newspaper=The Times of India|archive-date=29 March 2022|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220329220219/https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/city/puducherry/pondicherry-university-allows-ug-diploma-courses-in-lakshadweep/articleshow/84698904.cms|url-status=live}}{{cite web|url=https://www.pondiuni.edu.in/department/lakshadweep-campus/|title=Lakshadweep campus|work=Pondicherry University|access-date=1 August 2023|archive-date=2 August 2023|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230802124349/https://www.pondiuni.edu.in/department/lakshadweep-campus/|url-status=live}}{{cite web|url=https://www.uoc.ac.in/index.php/2016-06-21-09-51-49|title=Centers in Lakshadweep|work=Calicut University|access-date=1 August 2023|archive-date=1 February 2024|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240201140537/https://www.uoc.ac.in/index.php/2016-06-21-09-51-49|url-status=live}}

{{stack|{{Portal|Geography|Asia|India}}}}

• Coral reefs in India
• Andaman and Nicobar Islands

{{Reflist|group=note}}

{{notelist}}

{{reflist|colwidth=30em}}

• 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.

{{Commons category|Lakshadweep}}

• {{wikivoyage inline|Lakshadweep}}

{{Lakshadweep}}

{{States and territories of India}}

{{Corals}}

{{Authority control}}

Category:Lakshadweep

Category:South India

Category:Union territories of India

*

Category:Atolls of India

Category:Archipelagoes of the Indian Ocean

Category:Populated places established in the 5th century

Category:States and territories established in 1956

Category:1956 establishments in India

Category:States and union territories of India

Category:Districts of Lakshadweep