Lakshadweep, meaning 'one lakh islands,' is a cluster of 36 archipelago
serving as the maritime boundary between the Arabian Sea and the Laccadive Sea
Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi's Lakshadweep visit sparked a social
media feud with the Maldives. Praise for Lakshadweep led to calls for boycotting the latter
Movie stars, politicians, and industrialists rallied behind the PM's
appeal to boost tourism. Infrastructure development announcements flooded the island
Over 90% of the island's population relies on agriculture, a key GDP
contributor in Lakshadweep. However, recent developments hint at a shift from an
agriculture-based to a tourism economy
The abundance of coconut palms made coconut cultivation a major economic
activity. Each year, 10 crore coconuts are cultivated and consumed both locally and on the
mainland
4. Coir and coir products
3. Copra
2. Neera (coconut inflorescence sap)
1. Coconut oil & Desiccated Coconut
Over the years, coconut farmers also diversified, offering various
products like:
Besides coconuts, millet, sweet potatoes, and bananas are cultivated on
the island. Water logging in the hinterlands facilitated rice cultivation, enhancing
Lakshadweep's agri-economy
Managed by the Department of Fisheries, Lakshadweep's fisheries also
play a crucial role. Fishery boat building and marketing involve a large portion of the island's
population