The recent visit of Prime Minister Narendra Modi to Lakshadweep has sparked a significant surge in tourist interest, both domestically and internationally, leading to concerted efforts to bolster tourism infrastructure and foster local entrepreneurship in the region, according to tourism officer Imthias Mohammed.
Imthias Mohammed stated to news agency ANI that Lakshadweep has experienced a notable increase in tourist influx following Prime Minister Narendra Modi's visit to the islands in December 2023. He emphasized the substantial impact the Prime Minister's visit has had, attributing the heightened curiosity among travelers to learn more about Lakshadweep's tourism offerings to Modi's influential presence.
The tourism officer highlighted that since the Prime Minister's visit, Lakshadweep has been inundated with inquiries from both national and international tourism sectors, indicating a growing interest in exploring the scenic beauty and unique experiences the region has to offer.
Efforts to boost tourism activities on the islands have been underway, with a focus on promoting popular attractions such as scuba diving and water sports, which are significant revenue generators for Lakshadweep tourism. Additionally, there has been a concerted push to empower local entrepreneurs by encouraging them to establish tourist accommodations and fostering opportunities for educated youth to pursue careers in the tourism sector.
Plans are also in motion to attract more cruise ship companies and promote yachting tourism, to diversify the tourism offerings in Lakshadweep.
Looking ahead, the tourism department aims to further enhance connectivity with mainland India, addressing the current limitations in air travel to the islands. This improved connectivity is expected to facilitate easier access for tourists and contribute to the growth of tourism in the region.
Furthermore, efforts by the Indian government, including initiatives identified by NITI Aayog, are underway to develop eco-tourism projects on three islands in Lakshadweep. These projects, featuring beach villas and lagoon villas, aim to enhance the appeal of Lakshadweep as a tourist destination.
Prime Minister Modi's visit to Lakshadweep earlier this year underscored his advocacy for showcasing Indian destinations for weddings and tourism. His interaction with locals, appreciation of the islands' natural beauty, and engagement in recreational activities like snorkeling further spotlighted Lakshadweep's potential as a premier tourist destination.
The concerted efforts to promote Lakshadweep's tourism align with Prime Minister Modi's vision of promoting domestic tourism and encouraging events like weddings to take place within the country, as part of the 'Wed in India' initiative.
