Lakshadweeps

Lakshadweep, occasionally spelled Lakshadweeps, is a union territory of India comprised of a group of low-lying coral islands in the Arabian Sea, off the southwestern coast of the Indian mainland. The name Lakshadweep means “one hundred thousand islands” in Malayalam and Sanskrit. The territory consists of 36 islands, many uninhabited, arranged around shallow lagoons. The capital is Kavaratti.

Geographically, the islands lie about 200 to 400 kilometers from the coast of Kerala. They form a chain of coral atolls and reefs with a small total land area, around 32 square kilometers. Administratively, Lakshadweep is governed by an Administrator appointed by the President of India; there is no elected legislative assembly.

Demographically, the population is small and predominantly Muslim. Malayalam is the main language for communication and administration, with English used in official affairs. On Minicoy Island, Mahl, a Malayalam dialect, is spoken. The islands are known for high literacy relative to many other parts of the country.

The economy is mainly based on fishing and related marine activities, along with coconut and copra production. Tourism exists but is tightly regulated to protect fragile coral ecosystems; several islands offer limited ecotourism and basic visitor facilities. The reefs and lagoons support biodiversity and fisheries, and environmental protections help sustain these resources.

Historically, Lakshadweep has been a crossroads of Indian Ocean trade, with influences from Arab merchants and other travelers. It was part of the Madras Presidency under British rule and was reorganized as a Union Territory on 1 November 1956. Islam arrived early and shapes much of the islands’ culture today.