LAKSHADWEEP ISLANDS Meaning and
Definition
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Lakshadweep islands, also known as the Laccadive Islands, are a group of islands situated in the Arabian Sea, off the southwestern coast of India. This archipelago is a union territory of India and comprises 36 islands, including 11 inhabited ones, and numerous islets. The total land area of Lakshadweep islands is approximately 32 square kilometers.
The name "Lakshadweep" translates to "a hundred thousand islands" in the local language, Malayalam, however, the actual number of islands is significantly fewer. These islands are known for their pristine natural beauty, with crystal-clear turquoise waters, vibrant coral reefs, and lush greenery. Some of the most well-known islands within the group include Agatti, Minicoy, Kavaratti, and Bangaram.
The population of the Lakshadweep islands primarily consists of the indigenous Malayali people, who are of South Indian origin and predominantly practice Sunni Islam. The locals rely on fishing, coconut cultivation, and tourism as major sources of livelihood.
The Lakshadweep islands are not only popular among domestic and international tourists for their picturesque landscapes and biodiversity but also for their rich cultural heritage. Traditional music, dance forms, and festivals such as Eid-ul-Fitr, Bakrid, and the Lakshadweep Festival are significant aspects of the local culture.
The islands are relatively remote and can be reached by both air and sea transportation, with flights and passenger ships connecting them to mainland India. The government of India has implemented various conservation measures to protect the unique ecosystem of the Lakshadweep islands, ensuring their ecological sustainability for years to come.
Etymology of LAKSHADWEEP ISLANDS
The etymology of the word "Lakshadweep" comes from Sanskrit, an ancient Indo-Aryan language. The term consists of two parts: "Laksha" and "Dweep".
"Laksha" means "a hundred thousand" in Sanskrit, and "Dweep" means "island". So, "Lakshadweep" translates to "a hundred thousand islands" in English.
These islands, located off the southwestern coast of India in the Arabian Sea, are named as such due to their large number of small coral islands and atolls.
