Lakshadweep Faces Tourism Surge Amid India-Maldives Diplomatic Tensions

The island's ecological fragility and limited infrastructure pose challenges as it becomes a preferred destination for Indian tourists.

Amid escalating diplomatic tensions between India and the Maldives, a social media campaign 'Chalo Lakshadweep' is encouraging Indians to explore their own islands, particularly Lakshadweep, instead of the Maldives.
Lakshadweep's capacity to accommodate tourists is currently limited due to logistical challenges, including the lack of direct flights and only 150 hotel rooms across the islands.
Lakshadweep's Member of Parliament, Mohammad Faizal, emphasized the islands' ecological fragility and the need for high-end, controlled tourism, where visitor numbers are regulated, and tourists must commit to environmental conservation measures.
The diplomatic rift between India and the Maldives, sparked by derogatory remarks about Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi's visit to Lakshadweep by three Maldivian ministers, has led to their dismissal and a strengthening of the Maldives' relations with China.
The Maldivian president has issued an ultimatum for Indian troops to leave the island nation by March 15, which could potentially impact the Maldives' tourism industry, heavily dependent on Indian tourists.