India is planning to build an airstrip on Minicoy Island in the Lakshadweep archipelago, a move that has been in the works for years but has recently gained momentum due to its potential for defense purposes. This airstrip will enhance India's surveillance capabilities in the Arabian Sea and Indian Ocean, providing...
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a strategic base for monitoring maritime activities. The Indian Coast Guard initially proposed the idea, and the Indian Air Force is expected to operate from Minicoy. While the airstrip is intended to bolster security and surveillance, it also aims to attract tourists to the area. The Lakshadweep islands currently only have one airstrip, located in Agatti, which is limited in capacity. The decision to build a new airstrip follows Prime Minister Narendra Modi's recent visit to the islands and has sparked controversy, with Maldivian politicians criticizing India's plans to develop Lakshadweep as a tourist destination. Amidst this debate, Israel has expressed its support for promoting tourism in Lakshadweep, highlighting the islands' natural beauty and potential.