On Tuesday, Prime Minister Narendra Modi arrived at the Lakshadweep islands as a part of his two-day visit. He was received by the administrator of Lakshadweep Praful Patel and other senior officials at the Agatti airport.
After his arrival, he immediately addressed a public meeting at the Agatti airport. While addressing, he highlighted the immense possibilities that Lakshadweep can offer and pointed out the neglect faced by the people of Lakshadweep.
Why did PM Modi visit Lakshadweep?
Referring to the development projects, several development projects were completed in Agatti in the last 10 years. Modi’s visit to the island is to announce several development projects in the territory island. He stated that the government has taken up the task of improving and developing the island. “The government of India is working with full commitment for the development of the entire Lakshadweep”.
The PM also mentioned providing modern facilities to the fishermen. Besides, an ice plant would be established that will create new possibilities for seafood processing and export, as the export of tuna fish from Lakshadweep will pave a path for generating capital. Moreover, the PM mentioned inaugurating and laying the foundation stone of several development projects worth more than Rs 1150 crore.
The Development Projects
To overcome the challenge of slow internet speed in Lakshadweep, the Prime Minister will initiate the Kochi-Lakshadweep Islands Submarine Optical Fibre Connection (KLI-SOFC) project. The project aims to increase the speed of the internet more than 100 times (from 1.7 Gbps to 200 Gbps). This optical fibre connection will ensure a turnover in the communication infrastructure in the islands, offering faster and reliable internet, digital banking, education, e-governance, etc.
Besides, a Low-Temperature Thermal Desalination (LTTD) will be dedicated to the union territory. This will produce 1.5 lakh litres of clean drinking water. Moreover, a Functional Household Tap Connection (FHTC) will be dedicated to all the households of the Minicoy and Agatti islands.
Other Projects
Apart from the above, several other projects are dedicated including the solar power plant at Kavaratti, to reduce the dependence on diesel-based power generation.
Moreover, the Prime Minister will lay the foundation stone for the renovation of the primary healthcare facility in Kalpeni and the construction of Anganwadi in five islands of Androth, Minicoy, Kadmat, Agatti and Chetlat. All these activities will play a significant role in Modi’s visit.
Significance of Visit
PM Modi’s visit to Lakshadweep has been a positive development for the island. The focus on connectivity, infrastructure and tourism is expected to create new opportunities for island residents. This visit has helped to raise awareness regarding the challenges faced by the island communities and the need for sustainable development in this region.
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