Huge investments for Lakshadweep: To be made major tourist destination, new port to come

NEW DELHI: There are major announcements for Lakshadweep in the last budget of the second Modi Government. An announcement was that Lakshadweep will be made an important tourist destination. After Modi's visit, Lakshadweep has seen a heavy flow of domestic and foreign tourists. The budget announcement will further boost the island's tourism scene. A second announcement is that a new port will be built on the island, also a source of hope for the islanders. This has been their long-standing demand.

Paving the way for new projects in the field of tourism in Lakshadweep will also be a big gain for Kochi. As gateway to Lakshadweep, Kochi will also benefit from the projects. The arrival of international tourists for air and boat trips to the island will boost the tourism and travel sectors of Kochi and its surrounding areas.

Lakshadweep got more attention due to Prime Minister's visit and criticism against Maldives. Later, leading companies in the tourism and hospitality sectors, including Tata, announced investment plans. Inquiries to visit Lakshadweep increased. With this, the tourism sector was hoping that the central government would announce more projects. The budget announcement will give them more energy.

Kochi is the gateway to travel to Lakshadweep including international tourists. The nearest airport is in Kochi. Kochi port is the hub for cruise ships. Airports are located at Agathy and Bangaram islands. The central government has decided to establish an airport at Minicoy Island which can also cater to military needs. Indian Airlines is currently operating the service from Kochi. You can reach Kavaratti from Kochi in an hour and a half. There are helicopter facilities connecting the islands.