Sensitive Ecosystem and Lack of Facilities for Tourists, Admits NCP MP
After the India-Maldives dispute, a campaign called “Let’s Go to Lakshadweep” is gaining momentum on social media, encouraging tourism to the Lakshadweep islands. However, a Member of Parliament from Lakshadweep expressed concerns, stating that the islands can’t accommodate a large number of tourists, with only 150 hotel rooms and limited flights available.
NCP MP Fazal Mohammad Voices Concerns About Increased Tourism in Lakshadweep
NCP MP Mohammad Fazal expressed concerns about the potential increase in hotel rooms and flights in Lakshadweep, stating that the delicate ecosystem of the islands cannot sustain a large influx of tourists. He emphasized the need to focus on sustainable development based on the ‘Integrated Island Management Plan,’ as suggested by the Justice Ravi Commission’s report.
Fazal Mohammad Emphasizes Sustainable Development in Lakshadweep
Mohammad Fazal further emphasized that they are committed to developing Lakshadweep based on the recommendations of the Justice Ravi Commission. He stressed that they do not want a sudden increase in tourists and are concentrating on promoting responsible tourism. People who wish to visit should be aware of the environmental impact and contribute to the islands’ well-being.
Population Concentrated on 10 Islands, Only 61 People in Bangaram
Out of the 36 islands in Lakshadweep, only 10 have a significant population, including Kavaratti, Agatti, Amini, Kadmat, Kiltan, Chetlat, Bitra, Andrott, Kalpani, and Minicoy. Bitra has only 271 residents, while Bangaram has just 61. The remaining 26 islands are either uninhabited or sparsely populated. Despite the growth in tourism, fishing and coconut cultivation remain the main livelihoods in Lakshadweep.
Lakshadweep’s Political Scenario and Administration
Lakshadweep has only one Lok Sabha seat. The Congress held the seat from 1967 to 1999, followed by a change in 2004, with the Janata Dal winning for the first time. In 2009, the Congress regained the seat, and in 2014, the NCP won, maintaining its position in 2019. The central government appoints the administrator for Lakshadweep, and since 2020, Praful Khoda Patel has been serving in this role.
Administrator Patel’s Controversial Decisions Stir Headlines in Lakshadweep
Administrator Praful Khoda Patel, a former Gujarat BJP leader and minister, has attracted attention in Lakshadweep due to his decisions. He imposed a beef ban and declared a public holiday from Friday to Sunday. MP Mohammad Fazal opposed these decisions, highlighting the need for administrators to work collaboratively with elected representatives in decision-making processes.
