Tag: LAKSHADWEEP

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-Top News Defence India News

Indian Navy Set to Commission New Base in Lakshadweep

Indian Navy set to commission INS Jatayu naval base in Lakshadweep, to enhance operational capability

The Indian Navy is all set to commission the naval detachment in Minicoy as INS Jatayu in the presence of Admiral R Hari Kumar, Chief of the Naval Staff, on March 6.

The event marks an important milestone in the Navy’s resolve to incrementally augment security infrastructure at the strategically important Lakshadweep Islands.

Naval Detachment Minicoy was set up in the early 1980s under the operational command of Naval Officer-in-Charge (Lakshadweep).

Minicoy is the southernmost island of Lakshadweep, which straddles the vital Sea Lines of Communication (SLOCs). The establishment of an independent naval unit with the requisite infrastructure and resources will enhance the overall operational capability of the Indian Navy in the islands.

The base will enhance operational reach and facilitate the Indian Navy’s operational effort towards anti-piracy and anti-narcotics operations in the Western Arabian Sea. It will also augment the Indian Navy’s capability as the first responder in the region and augment connectivity with the mainland.

The establishment of a naval base is in line with the Government of India’s focus on the comprehensive development of islands.

INS Jatayu is the second naval base in Lakshadweep after INS Dweeprakshak in Kavaratti.

With the commissioning of INS Jatayu, the Indian Navy will strengthen its foothold in the Lakshadweep islands and along with extending operational surveillance, reach and sustenance, it will usher in a new era of capacity building and comprehensive development of the island territories.

Notably, the Indian Navy is also going to hold its commanders’ conference on board the twin aircraft carriers, including INS Vikramaditya and INS Vikrant, where they will be undertaking high-tempo operations like taking off from one carrier and landing at the other, along with participation from other warships and submarines in the carrier battle groups, defence officials told ANI.

The Indian Navy is also going to formally commission the multirole helicopter MH-60 Romeo at Kochi in the next week, they said.

The Indian Navy is also going to demonstrate for the first time the twin carrier operations in the areas near Lakshadweep. This would be the first time, after the induction of INS Vikrant, that the Navy would be carrying out the operations of the two aircraft carriers together. (ANI)

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Lite Blogs Travel

Unlocking the Wonders of Lakshadweep

Beyond the breathtaking beaches, Lakshadweep boasts a vibrant culture woven with ancient traditions and warm hospitality…reports Asian Lite News

Picture a necklace of emerald isles scattered across the azure Arabian Sea – that’s Lakshadweep, a place that has captivated the imaginations of Indians for years. Long considered a distant dream due to its remote location, this idyllic paradise is now more accessible than ever, beckoning travellers to explore its wonders. Let’s delve into why Lakshadweep should be your next travel destination, and how recent developments, coupled with better connectivity, have made this hidden gem easier to access.

Unrivalled Beauty: Imagine yourself on pristine beaches, the gentle waves caressing the shore, vibrant coral reefs teeming with life, and coconut palms swaying in the salty breeze. Lakshadweep offers all this and more, untouched by the hustle of mass tourism. Dive into the crystal-clear waters to swim with dolphins, kayak through mangroves, or simply relax on the tranquil shores – nature’s symphony awaits your presence.

Cultural Marvel: Beyond the breathtaking beaches, Lakshadweep boasts a vibrant culture woven with ancient traditions and warm hospitality. Experience the graceful movements of the Maldivian folk dance, savour the delectable flavours of locally spiced fresh seafood, and discover unique fishing techniques passed down through generations.

Easier Access: Forget about the days of limited travel options. Today, direct flights from Kochi, Bengaluru, and Chennai effortlessly transport you to Agatti or Bangaram islands, the gateways to Lakshadweep. Ferry services provide a scenic journey connecting the islands, while private yachts and chartered boats cater to luxury travellers seeking a bespoke experience.

Network Connectivity: While basic 2G/3G services are available on some islands, high-speed internet access has always been limited. Recently, telecom giant Airtel became the first 5G network provider to the Union territory. Most of Lakshadweep islands have been receiving 4G work since 2019 but now the tourists visiting Agatti & Kavaratti can continue using high-speed 5G network on their devices with Airtel’s 5G Plus for seamless connectivity on the go.

Digital Detox, Natural Reconnection: Although network connectivity is gradually improving, Lakshadweep’s charm lies in its digital detox. Leave behind constant pings and notifications and reconnect with yourself amidst the breathtaking beauty. Embrace the silence, the starlit nights, and the rhythm of the ocean – a digital cleanse for the soul.

Planning Your Paradise Getaway: Lakshadweep requires permits for Indian tourists, easily obtainable online. Choose from government-run beach resorts, private eco-friendly havens, or homestays for an authentic experience. Mind the local dress code and cultural sensitivities to ensure a harmonious visit.

ALSO READ-India’s Emerging Travel Hotspots

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Health India News Kerala

Lakshadweep Seeks Veterinary Assistant Surgeons

Official logo of Lakshadweep (Wikipedia)

The recruitment aimed at bolstering veterinary healthcare services in the region…reports Asian Lite News

The Department of Animal Husbandry, part of the Lakshadweep Administration announced the recruitment of five Veterinary Assistant Surgeons (VAS) on a contractual basis for an 11-month duration.

This initiative aims to bolster veterinary healthcare services in the region. Selected candidates, who should not be over 65 years of age as of October 21, 2023, will receive a fixed monthly remuneration of Rs. 50,000, without any additional allowances. Applicants must hold a Bachelor’s Degree in Veterinary Science & Animal Husbandry (B.V.Sc.) from a university or institute recognized by the Government of India.

Additionally, candidates should be registered with the Veterinary Council of India, State Veterinary Council, or Union Territory Veterinary Council. A valid Registration Certificate must be submitted with the application.

Prospective candidates who meet the criteria are invited to complete the Application Form and submit supporting documentation for their qualifications to adpoultrykvt@gmail.com by 6 PM on October 19, 2023. Original certificates will be required for verification upon joining.

The Employment Notice and application form can be found on the official Lakshadweep website (https://lakshadweep.gov.in). Candidates may choose to participate in a virtual interview at the Deputy Collector/Block Development Officer’s offices in their respective islands or attend an in-person interview at the NIC Hall, Secretariat, Kavaratti Island, Lakshadweep – 682555, on October 21, 2023, at 11 AM (IST). The Department will allocate time slots and notify shortlisted candidates about the interview and location details via their personal email.

For further information, please contact the Department of Animal Husbandry, Lakshadweep at 04896 263033.

ALSO READ: Global Spotlight on Kerala’s Vizhinjam Port

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-Top News Travel & Tourism

Lakshadweep to develop high-end eco-tourism projects

Official logo of Lakshadweep (Wikipedia)

The three water villa projects will come up at Minicoy at a cost of Rs 319 crore, Suheli islands at a cost of Rs 247 crore and Kadamat at Rs 240 crore…reports Asian Lite News.

The Lakshadweep administration is engaged in the development of high-end eco-tourism projects at Kadamat, Suheli, and Minicoy Islands, officials said on Sunday.

A statement from the Lakshadweep administration said that it has proposed high-end eco-tourism projects in order to establish a robust base for maritime economic growth with tourism development as its core.

The projects are to be implemented under the aegis of NITI Aayog and taking into account the protection of the fragile coral’s ecosystem. Three water villa projects which are of the first in the country will be opened in the Islands.

The three water villa projects will come up at Minicoy at a cost of Rs 319 crore, Suheli islands at a cost of Rs 247 crore and Kadamat at Rs 240 crore.

National Centre for Sustainable Social Management (NCSCM), MoEF&CC and NITI Aayog have conducted a joint survey during November 2018 for site assessment and confirmation.

Lakshadweep administrator, S. Asker Ali, (IAS), told IANS: “All the mandatory clearances are given for the projects are given upfront including the CRZ clearances.”

He also said that National Institute of Ocean Technology (NIOT) was engaged to prepare the Environment Impact Assessment (EIA) report which is required for CRZ clearance.

The administrator said that before finalizing the projects, the administration has conducted meaningful consultations with all the concerned stakeholders including public representatives and the concerned panchayats of Kadamat, Kavaratti and Minicoy. The local panchayats concerned have issued NOC for the proposed eco-tourism projects at Kadamat, Minicoy and Suheli islands in totality even for bar license in the project.

The administrator said that Global tenders for the three projects have been floated and can be downloaded with effect from August 1, 2021.

ALSO READ-Prithviraj’s post triggers #Save Lakshadweep campaign

READ MORE-Lakshadweep Administrator greeted with ‘go back’ slogans

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-Top News India News Politics

Lakshadweep Administrator greeted with ‘go back’ slogans

Black flags were also raised from some homes as the protests rent the air….reports Asian Lite News

Across Lakshadweep, Monday was observed as a day of protest by islanders, who dressed in black and shouted slogans of “go back” from their homes as Union Territory Administrator Praful Khoda Patel landed there around 2.30 p.m.

Black flags were also raised from some homes as the protests rent the air. Meanwhile, police officials taking the videos of the protest, and also of homes from where black flags were flying

This is his seventh visit by Patel after taking over as the new Administrator. He is slated to stay there for a week.

For a while now, Kerala’s Congress and the ruling Left here have been up in arms and have expressed solidarity with the islanders, who are on a protest mode after new measures and accusing Patel of trying to implement the “Sangh parivar agenda”.

Earlier in the day, Patel on Monday ducked his travel to the island through the Cochin airport, said Congress MPs from Kerala.

Hibi Eden and T.N. Prathapan had arrived in the VVIP lounge of the airport here after getting information that Patel is arriving here on a special flight to fly onward to Lakshwadeep.

“We had information that Patel would land here on a special flight and from here, would take a scheduled Air India ATR flight to the island. But after we reached here, we found out that he is not landing here and instead is flying from Daman and Diu,” said Eden.

“All know that we (Congress) are on a protest against the ‘reforms’ of the administrator, which are against the interests of the islanders. We came to meet him to request him to allow a delegation of Congress MPs to visit the island and also to see that no new rules should be enacted which do not have the concurrence of the islanders,” added Eden, who represents the Ernakulam Lok Sabha constituency, where Lakshadweep has a full-fledged office.

ALSO READ: Prithviraj’s post triggers #Save Lakshadweep campaign