Lakshadweep is witnessing an enormous number of interests after PM Narendra Modi visited the island this year, tourism officer Imthias Mohammed TB told an Indian media agency. He said that both tourists (domestic as well as international) have been inquiring about the islands ever since PM Narendra Modi promoted the island on social media.
“Impact is huge, we are receiving lots of inquiries Lakshadweep tourism officer said. He said they will be deploying more cruise ships to boost connectivity to the island.
Aman Singh, a tourist from Mumbai said, we wanted to come for a very long time to Lakshadweep but there were so many myths about the island but PM Modi’s visit had an impact that it is possible to go.
Sumit Anand said he made the archipelago his next destination only after seeing PM Modi’s photos and videos. PM Modi in January 2024, visited the Union Territory and tried to do snorkelling. At that time, the PM wrote “For those who wish to embrace their adventurer in them, Lakshadweep has to be on your list.” He shared several pictures from his visit on social media. In a series of posts on X, PM Modi shared pictures of the white beaches, pristine blue skies, and clear oceanic view.
After the PM’s visit, to the Lakshadweep, the relations between India and Maldives soured. Subsequently, the Indian tourists who used to flock to the Maldives shunned the nation and expressed their interest in going to Lakshadweep instead. A full-blown backlash was directed at the Maldives following derogatory remarks against India and PM Modi by three Maldivian officials after PM Modi posted photos and video of the picturesque island.
Earlier in January 2024, the External Affairs Minister of India, Subramaniam Jaishankar had said PM Modi’s trip to Lakshadweep has garnered worldwide interests in the archipelago and highlighted its significant tourism prospects.
“By visiting Lakshadweep, PM Narendra Modi has focused attention on its immense potential for tourism. This is a great inspiration for all of us. More visitors will contribute to Lakshadweep’s prosperity. They will also experience its unique culture and traditions,” Jaishankar tweeted on his official X handle.
With the increase in the interest in Lakshadweep, last month budget carrier IndiGo announced a direct flight between Bengaluru and Agatti. Currently, only Alliance Air has the services to Agatti while the regional carrier FLY91 plans to start services to the destination this month.
