Israel has announced its readiness to commence working on a desalination program in Lakshadweep, an Indian union territory. The Israel Embassy stated that a team from Israel visited Lakshadweep last year at the request of the Indian government to initiate the desalination program. The embassy shared pictures and a video showcasing the beauty of Lakshadweep Islands. The announcement comes amid increased interest in Lakshadweep as a tourist destination, with a significant surge in online searches following Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s recent visit to the archipelago. The Indian travel company Make My Trip reported a 3,400% increase in on-platform searches for Lakshadweep.
This interest by potential tourists in local Indian beaches has prompted the launch of a ‘Beaches of India’ campaign on the platform, with offers and discounts to encourage Indian travellers to explore the country’s stunning beaches.
The huge spark in interest for Lakshadweep is linked to the outcome of Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s recent overnight stay, followed by beach visits and his participation in some adventure activities.
A massive row was triggered after three Maldives deputy ministers made disparaging and unsavoury references to PM Modi’s Lakshadweep visit.
Indians, including cricketers and film celebrities, have since come out in open support in promoting local beach destinations and other tourist spots. They also voiced support for PM Modi’s call for promoting beach tourism in Lakshadweep.
Following a huge uproar and a diplomatic row, Maldives President Mohamed Muizzu suspended the three ministers who had made the derogatory remarks.
The Maldives government has also distanced itself from the remarks made by its ministers. Maldivian Minister of Foreign Affairs Moosa Zameer said that these remarks against foreign leaders are “unacceptable” and do not reflect the official position of the Maldives government.
