According to sources, India has formulated a plan exceeding ₹3,600 crore for infrastructure upgrades aimed at transforming the Lakshadweep islands into a tourist destination. The plan encompasses the development of additional ports, peripheral roads, and beachfront facilities, alongside other initiatives.

It involves establishing port facilities at Androth, Kalpeni, and Kadamat islands, as well as constructing beachfront and peripheral roads at Kadamat Island, Agatti Island, and Kavaratti Island.

As per the reports, the funding for these projects will be derived from the Sagarmala scheme, which focuses on port development. A total of 13 projects have been identified for the 36 Lakshadweep islands, spanning an area of 32 square kilometers. These islands are situated 220-440 km off the Kerala coast in the Arabian Sea.

Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman announced a focus on developing port connectivity, tourism infrastructure, and amenities on the islands, including Lakshadweep, with the aim of promoting domestic tourism and generating employment.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi's visit to Lakshadweep earlier this year highlighted the islands' potential. Subsequently, after a post on X by PM Modi, three deputy ministers from Maldives made disparaging remarks about Modi, triggering outrage on social media. Many individuals advocated for boycotting Maldives and proposed Lakshadweep as a viable alternative.

Despite its picturesque beaches, coral islands, and crystal-clear waters, Lakshadweep currently lacks sufficient infrastructure and facilities to cater to a significant influx of tourists.

The Sagarmala plan, initiated in July 2015, is a central sector scheme administered by the Ministry of Ports, Shipping, and Waterways. It seeks to facilitate port-led development in India by leveraging the nation's coastline, navigable waterways, and strategic position along international maritime trade routes.

Under the Sagarmala scheme, financial assistance is extended to projects with significant social impact, regardless of their low internal rate of return. To date, support has been granted to a total of 171 projects amounting to Rs 4,525 crore, with 55 projects already concluded.

Additionally, there are over 800 projects valued at Rs 5.8 lakh crore earmarked for implementation under the Sagarmala scheme, out of which 241 projects totaling Rs 1.22 lakh crore have been finalized.

Image source: Economic Times