Israel praises Lakshadweep's underwater charm, aims to kickstart desalination project

Chalo Lakshadweep: In a bid to enhance environmental collaboration, Israel has expressed admiration for the "pristine and majestic" underwater beauty of Lakshadweep and stands ready to initiate a desalination project in the archipelago.

This announcement comes after a team from Israel visited Lakshadweep last year at the behest of the Indian government, signalling positive prospects for the island's water management.

Israel Embassy's Visit and Commitment

Confirming their commitment, the Israel Embassy tweeted that their team's visit to Lakshadweep last year was in response to the Indian government's request to kickstart a desalination programme. The embassy is prepared to commence work on the project at the earliest convenience, as conveyed in their tweet.

We were in #Lakshadweep last year upon the federal government's request to initiate the desalination program.

Israel is ready to commence working on this project tomorrow.

For those who are yet to witness the pristine and majestic underwater beauty of #lakshadweepislands, here… pic.twitter.com/bmfDWdFMEq

— Israel in India (@IsraelinIndia) January 8, 2024

Showcasing Lakshadweep's Allure

Accompanying the announcement, the embassy shared captivating pictures of Lakshadweep, inviting global appreciation for its enchanting underwater allure. The tweet also included a video showcasing the majestic beaches of the island, further highlighting its natural beauty.

Tourist Interest Skyrockets

In a parallel development, Make My Trip, a leading Indian online travel company, reported a remarkable 3,400% surge in on-platform searches for Lakshadweep following Prime Minister Narendra Modi's recent visit. The interest has prompted the launch of a dedicated 'Beaches of India' campaign on the platform, offering discounts to encourage travellers to explore India's beautiful beaches.

Support for Local Tourism

PM Modi's visit stirred controversy after disparaging remarks were made by three Maldives deputy ministers. In response, Indians, including celebrities and cricketers, rallied in support of promoting local tourist destinations. A diplomatic row ensued, leading to the suspension of the ministers and a reaffirmation of Maldives' commitment to friendly relations.

Diplomatic Developments

While PM Modi's visit showcased Lakshadweep's natural beauty, it also triggered a diplomatic row with Maldives. The subsequent suspension of the ministers and distancing by the Maldives government from their remarks underscore the importance of diplomatic decorum.

Promoting Beach Tourism

PM Modi's call for promoting beach tourism in Lakshadweep found resonance among supporters. The 'Beaches of India' campaign aligns with this vision, encouraging travellers to explore the scenic beaches of Lakshadweep.