<p>After three Maldivian ministers made derogatory remarks against PM Modi, the Indian Ministry of External Affairs on Monday (Jan 8) summoned Maldives High Commissioner Ibrahim Shaheeb.</p>

<p>Shaheeb arrived at the ministry in Delhi's South Block early in the morning and could be seen leaving the building a few minutes later.</p>

<p>The high-ranking&nbsp;official was summoned a day after the Indian government raised concerns over the derogatory comments made by the Maldivian ministers against PM Modi.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>What&nbsp;is the controversy?</strong></h2>

<p>Ever since&nbsp;PM Modi&nbsp;visited Lakshadweep - an archipelago consisting of 36 islands located in the Arabian Sea, there has been an online discourse about whether the picturesque region&nbsp;could be the next Maldives.</p>

<p>However, the discourse did not go down well with certain Maldivian government officials as well as social media users who started foul-mouthing PM Modi as well as India.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Mariyam Shiuna, the deputy minister of youth empowerment, information and arts referred to PM Modi as a 'clown' and a 'puppet of Israel' and posted images from his visit to the archipelago.&nbsp;</p>

<p>“What a clown. The puppet of Israel Mr Narendra diver with a life jacket #VisitMaldives,” Shiuna posted on X.</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/india-raises-concerns-over-derogatory-comments-by-maldives-minister-against-pm-modi-677434"><strong>Also read | Exclusive: India raises concerns over derogatory comments by Maldives minister against PM Modi</strong></a></p>

<p>Zahid Rameez, a Council member of the ruling Progressive Party of Maldives (PPM) also targeted India by posting: “The move is great. However, the idea of competing with us is delusional. How can they provide the service we offer? How can they be so clean? The permanent smell in the rooms will be the biggest downfall.”</p>

<p>Some other Maldivian leaders&nbsp;followed the trend and posted similar racist tirades masquerading as digs at India.&nbsp;</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/gravitas-could-lakshadweep-replace-maldives-as-tourist-haven-677005" target="_blank"><strong>Watch | Gravitas | Could Lakshadweep replace Maldives as tourist haven?</strong></a></p>

<p><iframe allow="accelerometer; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" data-gtm-yt-inspected-7="true" frameborder="0" height="350" loading="lazy" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/gravitas-could-lakshadweep-replace-maldives-as-tourist-haven-677005/embed?autoplay=0" title="live tv" width="100%"></iframe></p>

<h2><strong>Ministers suspended</strong></h2>

<p>After the Indian side raised concerns, the Maldivian government on Sunday (Jan 7) suspended Shiuna, Malsha Shareef and Hassan Zihan over their derogatory comments.&nbsp;</p>

<p>In an official statement, the Maldives foreign ministry clarified that these opinions were personal and did not reflect the nation's stance.</p>

<p>"The Government of Maldives is aware of derogatory remarks on social media platforms against foreign leaders and high-ranking individuals. These opinions are personal and do not represent the views of the Government of Maldives," read the statement.</p>

<p>Maldives&nbsp;relies heavily on Indian tourists to keep its industry buoyant.&nbsp;According to a data, at the end of December 2023, as many as 209,198 Indian tourists arrived in Maldives for recreational purposes, making it the biggest demography to visit the island nation. Hence, irking New Delhi may have serious ramifications for Maldives.&nbsp;&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>

<p>&nbsp;</p>


After three Maldivian ministers made derogatory remarks against PM Modi, the Indian Ministry of External Affairs on Monday (Jan 8) summoned Maldives High Commissioner Ibrahim Shaheeb.

After three Maldivian ministers made derogatory remarks against PM Modi, the Indian Ministry of External Affairs on Monday (Jan 8) summoned Maldives High Commissioner Ibrahim Shaheeb. Shaheeb arrived at the ministry in Delhi's South Block early in the morning and could be seen leaving the building a few minutes later. The high-ranking official was summoned a day after the Indian government raised concerns over the derogatory comments made by the Maldivian ministers against PM Modi. What is the controversy? Ever since PM Modi visited Lakshadweep - an archipelago consisting of 36 islands located in the Arabian Sea, there has been an online discourse about whether the picturesque region could be the next Maldives. However, the discourse did not go down well with certain Maldivian government officials as well as social media users who started foul-mouthing PM Modi as well as India. Mariyam Shiuna, the deputy minister of youth empowerment, information and arts referred to PM Modi as a 'clown' and a 'puppet of Israel' and posted images from his visit to the archipelago. “What a clown. The puppet of Israel Mr Narendra diver with a life jacket #VisitMaldives,” Shiuna posted on X. Also read | Exclusive: India raises concerns over derogatory comments by Maldives minister against PM Modi Zahid Rameez, a Council member of the ruling Progressive Party of Maldives (PPM) also targeted India by posting: “The move is great. However, the idea of competing with us is delusional. How can they provide the service we offer? How can they be so clean? The permanent smell in the rooms will be the biggest downfall.” Some other Maldivian leaders followed the trend and posted similar racist tirades masquerading as digs at India. Watch | Gravitas | Could Lakshadweep replace Maldives as tourist haven? Ministers suspended After the Indian side raised concerns, the Maldivian government on Sunday (Jan 7) suspended Shiuna, Malsha Shareef and Hassan Zihan over their derogatory comments. In an official statement, the Maldives foreign ministry clarified that these opinions were personal and did not reflect the nation's stance. "The Government of Maldives is aware of derogatory remarks on social media platforms against foreign leaders and high-ranking individuals. These opinions are personal and do not represent the views of the Government of Maldives," read the statement. Maldives relies heavily on Indian tourists to keep its industry buoyant. According to a data, at the end of December 2023, as many as 209,198 Indian tourists arrived in Maldives for recreational purposes, making it the biggest demography to visit the island nation. Hence, irking New Delhi may have serious ramifications for Maldives. (With inputs from agencies)

India summons Maldives high commissioner over derogatory remarks against PM Modi

<p>Amid the raging controversy over the derogatory remarks by Maldivian politicians against Prime Minister Narendra Modi over his visit to the Lakshadweep island, many Indian celebrities have spoken out, condemning the shameful comments by the minister as they urged millions of Indians to explore Indian Islands.<br />
<br />
While the controversy is raging all over, on Sunday, celebrities like Akshay Kumar, Salman Khan, Kangana Ranaut, John Abraham and cricketer Sachin Tendulkar shared support with #ExploreIndianIslands as they praised the mystic beauty of Lakshadweep.&nbsp;<br />
<br />
Bollywood superstar Akshay Kumar, who never shies away from putting forward his view, took to X to condemn the derogatory comments from prominent public figures of Maldives.<br />
<br />
"Came across comments from prominent public figures from Maldives passing hateful and racist comments on Indians. Surprised that they are doing this to a country that sends them the maximum number of tourists. We are good to our neighbors but why should we tolerate such unprovoked hate? I've visited the Maldives many times and always praised it, but dignity first. Let us decide to #ExploreIndianIslands and support our own tourism," Kumar posted on X.&nbsp;</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Came across comments from prominent public figures from Maldives passing hateful and racist comments on Indians. Surprised that they are doing this to a country that sends them the maximum number of tourists.<br />
We are good to our neighbors but<br />
why should we tolerate such… <a href="https://t.co/DXRqkQFguN">pic.twitter.com/DXRqkQFguN</a></p>
— Akshay Kumar (@akshaykumar) <a href="https://twitter.com/akshaykumar/status/1743910499274924419?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 7, 2024</a></blockquote>
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<p>Akshay rang the New Year with his entire family in the Maldives.&nbsp;<br />
<br />
Praising the beauty of Lakshadweep, actor Salman Khan wrote, "It is so cool to see our Hon PM Narendrabhai Modi at the beautiful clean n stunning beaches of Lakshadweep, and the best part is that yeh hamare India mein hain."&nbsp;</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Came across comments from prominent public figures from Maldives passing hateful and racist comments on Indians. Surprised that they are doing this to a country that sends them the maximum number of tourists.<br />
We are good to our neighbors but<br />
why should we tolerate such… <a href="https://t.co/DXRqkQFguN">pic.twitter.com/DXRqkQFguN</a></p>
— Akshay Kumar (@akshaykumar) <a href="https://twitter.com/akshaykumar/status/1743910499274924419?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 7, 2024</a></blockquote>
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<p>Actress Shraddha Kapoor praised the pristine beaches of the Lakshadweep.&nbsp; "All these images and memes making me super FOMO now. Lakshadweep has such pristine beaches and coastlines, thriving local culture, I'm on the verge of booking an impulse chhutti&nbsp;This year, why not #ExploreIndianIslands," she wrote on X.</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">All these images and memes making me super FOMO now 😍<br />
Lakshadweep has such pristine beaches and coastlines, thriving local culture, I’m on the verge of booking an impulse chhutti ❤️<br />
This year, why not <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/ExploreIndianIslands?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#ExploreIndianIslands</a> <a href="https://t.co/fTWmZTycpO">pic.twitter.com/fTWmZTycpO</a></p>
— Shraddha (@ShraddhaKapoor) <a href="https://twitter.com/ShraddhaKapoor/status/1743881298522083626?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 7, 2024</a></blockquote>
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<p>Check all the posts here:</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Smell?? Permanent smell?? What!!! Suffering from massive Muslim phobia, even though belonging to the same community. Lakshadweep consists of 98 percent of Muslim population, this prominent public figure from Maldives calling them smelly and lowly is rather racist and uninformed.… <a href="https://t.co/hLbQvD5RYD">pic.twitter.com/hLbQvD5RYD</a></p>
— Kangana Ranaut (@KanganaTeam) <a href="https://twitter.com/KanganaTeam/status/1743923026515964229?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 7, 2024</a></blockquote>
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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">With the amazing Indian hospitality, the idea of “Atithi Devo Bhava” and a vast marine life to explore. Lakshwadeep is the place to go.<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/exploreindianislands?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#exploreindianislands</a> <a href="https://t.co/CA1d9r0QZ5">pic.twitter.com/CA1d9r0QZ5</a></p>
— John Abraham (@TheJohnAbraham) <a href="https://twitter.com/TheJohnAbraham/status/1743894445177868758?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 7, 2024</a></blockquote>
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<p>The rift started after Maldivian Minister Mariyam Shiuna made disparaging remarks against Prime Minister Narendra Modi's visit to&nbsp;Lakshwadeep.<br />
<br />
Shiuna, who is the Deputy Minister of Youth Empowerment in the Maldives, called PM Modi 'clown' and 'puppet of Israel' on X. However, her post was quickly taken down from the site.&nbsp;<br />
<br />
Reacting to the derogatory remarks, the Maldives government distanced itself from the controversy, saying,&nbsp;''These opinions are personal and do not represent the views of the Government of Maldives.''<br />
<br />
In a statement, the Government of Maldives said that it is aware of the derogatory remarks made by the minister on social media platforms. "These opinions are personal and do not represent the views of the Government of Maldives. The Government believes that the freedom of expression should be exercised in a democratic and responsible manner, and in ways that do not spread hatred, negativity, and hinder close relationships between the Maldives and its international partners," the statement said.</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Maldives National Party condemns racist and derogatory comments made by a government official against a foreign head of State. This is unacceptable. We urge the government to take necessary action against those involved.</p>
— Maldives National Party (@MNP_Secretariat) <a href="https://twitter.com/MNP_Secretariat/status/1743866346872676411?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 7, 2024</a></blockquote>
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<p>On Sunday evening, all the three ministers,&nbsp;Shiuna, Malsha and Hassan Zihan&nbsp;were <a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/maldives-govt-suspends-ministers-who-made-racist-remarks-against-indians-to-target-pm-modis-lakshadweep-visit-677475">suspended</a> by the government over derogatory remarks made about Indian PM Modi.&nbsp;</p>

<p>In an official statement, Maldives government spokesperson Ibrahim Khaleel said, "All government officials responsible for the comments have been suspended from their posts, effective immediately."</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


Amid the raging controversy over the derogatory remarks by Maldivian politicians against Prime Minister Narendra Modi over his visit to the Lakshadweep island, many Indian celebrities have spoken out, condemning the shameful comments by the minister as they urged millions of Indians to explore Indian Islands.

Amid the raging controversy over the derogatory remarks by Maldivian politicians against Prime Minister Narendra Modi over his visit to the Lakshadweep island, many Indian celebrities have spoken out, condemning the shameful comments by the minister as they urged millions of Indians to explore Indian Islands. While the controversy is raging all over, on Sunday, celebrities like Akshay Kumar, Salman Khan, Kangana Ranaut, John Abraham and cricketer Sachin Tendulkar shared support with #ExploreIndianIslands as they praised the mystic beauty of Lakshadweep. Bollywood superstar Akshay Kumar, who never shies away from putting forward his view, took to X to condemn the derogatory comments from prominent public figures of Maldives. "Came across comments from prominent public figures from Maldives passing hateful and racist comments on Indians. Surprised that they are doing this to a country that sends them the maximum number of tourists. We are good to our neighbors but why should we tolerate such unprovoked hate? I've visited the Maldives many times and always praised it, but dignity first. Let us decide to #ExploreIndianIslands and support our own tourism," Kumar posted on X. Came across comments from prominent public figures from Maldives passing hateful and racist comments on Indians. Surprised that they are doing this to a country that sends them the maximum number of tourists. We are good to our neighbors but why should we tolerate such… pic.twitter.com/DXRqkQFguN — Akshay Kumar (@akshaykumar) January 7, 2024 × Akshay rang the New Year with his entire family in the Maldives. Praising the beauty of Lakshadweep, actor Salman Khan wrote, "It is so cool to see our Hon PM Narendrabhai Modi at the beautiful clean n stunning beaches of Lakshadweep, and the best part is that yeh hamare India mein hain." Came across comments from prominent public figures from Maldives passing hateful and racist comments on Indians. Surprised that they are doing this to a country that sends them the maximum number of tourists. We are good to our neighbors but why should we tolerate such… pic.twitter.com/DXRqkQFguN — Akshay Kumar (@akshaykumar) January 7, 2024 × Actress Shraddha Kapoor praised the pristine beaches of the Lakshadweep. "All these images and memes making me super FOMO now. Lakshadweep has such pristine beaches and coastlines, thriving local culture, I'm on the verge of booking an impulse chhutti This year, why not #ExploreIndianIslands," she wrote on X. All these images and memes making me super FOMO now 😍 Lakshadweep has such pristine beaches and coastlines, thriving local culture, I’m on the verge of booking an impulse chhutti ❤️ This year, why not #ExploreIndianIslands pic.twitter.com/fTWmZTycpO — Shraddha (@ShraddhaKapoor) January 7, 2024 × Check all the posts here: Smell?? Permanent smell?? What!!! Suffering from massive Muslim phobia, even though belonging to the same community. Lakshadweep consists of 98 percent of Muslim population, this prominent public figure from Maldives calling them smelly and lowly is rather racist and uninformed.… pic.twitter.com/hLbQvD5RYD — Kangana Ranaut (@KanganaTeam) January 7, 2024 × With the amazing Indian hospitality, the idea of “Atithi Devo Bhava” and a vast marine life to explore. Lakshwadeep is the place to go.#exploreindianislands pic.twitter.com/CA1d9r0QZ5 — John Abraham (@TheJohnAbraham) January 7, 2024 × The rift started after Maldivian Minister Mariyam Shiuna made disparaging remarks against Prime Minister Narendra Modi's visit to Lakshwadeep. Shiuna, who is the Deputy Minister of Youth Empowerment in the Maldives, called PM Modi 'clown' and 'puppet of Israel' on X. However, her post was quickly taken down from the site. Reacting to the derogatory remarks, the Maldives government distanced itself from the controversy, saying, ''These opinions are personal and do not represent the views of the Government of Maldives.'' In a statement, the Government of Maldives said that it is aware of the derogatory remarks made by the minister on social media platforms. "These opinions are personal and do not represent the views of the Government of Maldives. The Government believes that the freedom of expression should be exercised in a democratic and responsible manner, and in ways that do not spread hatred, negativity, and hinder close relationships between the Maldives and its international partners," the statement said. Maldives National Party condemns racist and derogatory comments made by a government official against a foreign head of State. This is unacceptable. We urge the government to take necessary action against those involved. — Maldives National Party (@MNP_Secretariat) January 7, 2024 × On Sunday evening, all the three ministers, Shiuna, Malsha and Hassan Zihan were suspended by the government over derogatory remarks made about Indian PM Modi. In an official statement, Maldives government spokesperson Ibrahim Khaleel said, "All government officials responsible for the comments have been suspended from their posts, effective immediately." (With inputs from agencies)

Akshay Kumar, Salman Khan and other celebs laud PM Modi’s visit to Lakshadweep amid Maldives row

<p>Nobody could have predicted that Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s one visit to Lakshadweep islands would hit a raw nerve in Maldivian leaders, with many of them taking to X to post derogatory remarks against India and top Indian leaders.</p>

<p>However, one such leader of the ruling Progressive Party of Maldives ended up embarrassing himself big time after he mistakenly posted pictures of French Polynesia’s Bora Bora islands in his distasteful attempt to put the Indian archipelago down.</p>

<p>Maaiz Mahmood, who claims to be a ‘teacher by profession’ and a member of the ruling party in his X bio, wrote on the social media platform, “Sun set in Maldives. &nbsp;You won't see this in Lakshadweep.” He also tagged Indian PM Modi’s X account in his post. Along with his post, he attached a photo from the Bora Bora islands, claiming it to be from the Maldives.</p>

<p>However, his post was soon flagged as false by community notes.</p>

<p><img alt="Image" src="https://pbs.twimg.com/media/GDOAN6kbUAAR2G8?format=jpg&amp;name=medium" /></p>

<p>“This is not Maldives. This is Bora Bora in French Polynesia,” the community note read, appearing just below Mahmood’s post.</p>

<p>It was not long before Mahmood found himself getting roasted right, left and centre by Indians on X.</p>

<p>“Because sun doesn’t set anywhere else on earth,” quipped one user. “It’s Bora Bora Island in French Polynesia, not Maldives. &nbsp;Stop lying,” wrote another. “Maybe the sun has set on tourism in the Maldives,” a third user warned the tiny nation.</p>

<p>Meanwhile, some unverified reports on Indian social media claimed that more than 8,000 hotel bookings and 2,500 flight tickets were cancelled after a top Maldivian minister allegedly abused the Indian PM.</p>

<p><strong>Watch:&nbsp;Gravitas | Could Lakshadweep replace Maldives as tourist haven?&nbsp;</strong></p>

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<p>The Deputy Minister of Youth Empowerment, Information and Arts, allegedly referred to the Indian prime minister as a ‘clown’ and a ‘puppet of Israel’.</p>

<p>However, the Maldivian government later distanced itself from the statement and stated that “these opinions are personal and do not represent the views of the Government of Maldives.”</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/india-raises-concerns-over-derogatory-comments-by-maldives-minister-against-pm-modi-677434"><strong>Also read:&nbsp;Exclusive: India raises concerns over derogatory comments by Maldives minister against PM Modi</strong></a></p>

<p>“The Government believes that the freedom of expression should be exercised in a democratic and responsible manner, and in ways that do not spread hatred, negativity, and hinder close relationships between the Maldives and its international partners," the statement said.</p>


Nobody could have predicted that Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s one visit to Lakshadweep islands would hit a raw nerve in Maldivian leaders, with many of them taking to X to post derogatory remarks against India and top Indian leaders.

Nobody could have predicted that Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s one visit to Lakshadweep islands would hit a raw nerve in Maldivian leaders, with many of them taking to X to post derogatory remarks against India and top Indian leaders. However, one such leader of the ruling Progressive Party of Maldives ended up embarrassing himself big time after he mistakenly posted pictures of French Polynesia’s Bora Bora islands in his distasteful attempt to put the Indian archipelago down. Maaiz Mahmood, who claims to be a ‘teacher by profession’ and a member of the ruling party in his X bio, wrote on the social media platform, “Sun set in Maldives. You won't see this in Lakshadweep.” He also tagged Indian PM Modi’s X account in his post. Along with his post, he attached a photo from the Bora Bora islands, claiming it to be from the Maldives. However, his post was soon flagged as false by community notes. “This is not Maldives. This is Bora Bora in French Polynesia,” the community note read, appearing just below Mahmood’s post. It was not long before Mahmood found himself getting roasted right, left and centre by Indians on X. “Because sun doesn’t set anywhere else on earth,” quipped one user. “It’s Bora Bora Island in French Polynesia, not Maldives. Stop lying,” wrote another. “Maybe the sun has set on tourism in the Maldives,” a third user warned the tiny nation. Meanwhile, some unverified reports on Indian social media claimed that more than 8,000 hotel bookings and 2,500 flight tickets were cancelled after a top Maldivian minister allegedly abused the Indian PM. Watch: Gravitas | Could Lakshadweep replace Maldives as tourist haven? × The Deputy Minister of Youth Empowerment, Information and Arts, allegedly referred to the Indian prime minister as a ‘clown’ and a ‘puppet of Israel’. However, the Maldivian government later distanced itself from the statement and stated that “these opinions are personal and do not represent the views of the Government of Maldives.” Also read: Exclusive: India raises concerns over derogatory comments by Maldives minister against PM Modi “The Government believes that the freedom of expression should be exercised in a democratic and responsible manner, and in ways that do not spread hatred, negativity, and hinder close relationships between the Maldives and its international partners," the statement said.

Maldivian leader roasted after he mistakenly shares Bora Bora photo to counter Lakshadweep

<p><meta name="uuid" content="uuidfLSBrlvYcA9u" /><meta charset="utf-8" />The official websites of the Maldivian president's office, the foreign ministry and the tourism ministry were restored in the early hours of Sunday (Jan 7) after being down since last night in a suspected cyberattack.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The president's office had taken to its social media handles to report the unexpected disruption to the official websites. It informed that the National Centre for Information Technology and other relevant entities were actively working to resolve the issue.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"Please note that the President’s Office website is currently facing an unexpected technical disruption. The National Centre for Information Technology (NCIT) and other relevant entities are actively working on resolving this promptly. We apologise for any inconvenience caused. Thank you for your understanding and patience."</p>

<p><img src="https://akm-img-a-in.tosshub.com/indiatoday/styles/medium_crop_simple/public/2024-01/s2.jpg?VersionId=bKu1buHN4M3J83tozCwpR9C0Eh74Ufvw&amp;size=750:*" /></p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/gravitas-could-lakshadweep-replace-maldives-as-tourist-haven-677005" target="_blank"><strong>Watch | Gravitas | Could Lakshadweep replace Maldives as tourist haven?</strong></a></p>

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<h2><strong>Lakshadweep vs Maldives debate</strong></h2>

<p>Notably, the crashing of the government websites came hours after some Maldivian officials targeted India and Prime Minister Narendra Modi.</p>

<p>Ever since the Indian PM visited Lakshadweep - an archipelago consisting of 36 islands located in the Arabian Sea, there has been an online discourse about whether the picturesque region&nbsp;could be the next Maldives.&nbsp;The term was ‘googled’ by over 50,000 users on the second day of PM Modi’s Jan 2-3 visit to the territory.</p>

<p>However, the discourse did not go down well with certain Maldivian government officials as well as social media users who started foul-mouthing PM Modi as well as India.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Mariyam Shiuna, the deputy minister of youth empowerment, information and arts referred to PM Modi as a 'clown' and a 'puppet of Israel' after he posted images from his visit to the archipelago.&nbsp;</p>

<p>“What a clown. The puppet of Israel Mr Narendra diver with a life jacket #VisitMaldives,” Shiuna posted on X.&nbsp;</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/maldives-jittery-as-lakshadweep-remains-top-trend-in-india-for-second-consecutive-day-677193" target="_blank"><strong>Also read | Maldives jittery as ‘Lakshadweep’ remains top trend in India for second consecutive day</strong></a></p>

<p>Zahid Rameez, a Council member of the ruling Progressive Party of Maldives (PPM) also targeted India by posting: “The move is great. However, the idea of competing with us is delusional. How can they provide the service we offer? How can they be so clean? The permanent smell in the rooms will be the biggest downfall.”</p>

<p>Maldives&nbsp;relies heavily on Indian tourists to keep its industry buoyant.&nbsp;According to a data, at the end of December 2023, as many as 209,198 Indian tourists arrived in Maldives for recreational purposes, making it the biggest demography to visit the island nation.&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>

<p>&nbsp;</p>


The official websites of the Maldivian president's office, the foreign ministry and the tourism ministry were restored in the early hours of Sunday (Jan 7) after being down since last night in a suspected cyberattack.

The official websites of the Maldivian president's office, the foreign ministry and the tourism ministry were restored in the early hours of Sunday (Jan 7) after being down since last night in a suspected cyberattack. The president's office had taken to its social media handles to report the unexpected disruption to the official websites. It informed that the National Centre for Information Technology and other relevant entities were actively working to resolve the issue. "Please note that the President’s Office website is currently facing an unexpected technical disruption. The National Centre for Information Technology (NCIT) and other relevant entities are actively working on resolving this promptly. We apologise for any inconvenience caused. Thank you for your understanding and patience." Watch | Gravitas | Could Lakshadweep replace Maldives as tourist haven? × Lakshadweep vs Maldives debate Notably, the crashing of the government websites came hours after some Maldivian officials targeted India and Prime Minister Narendra Modi. Ever since the Indian PM visited Lakshadweep - an archipelago consisting of 36 islands located in the Arabian Sea, there has been an online discourse about whether the picturesque region could be the next Maldives. The term was ‘googled’ by over 50,000 users on the second day of PM Modi’s Jan 2-3 visit to the territory. However, the discourse did not go down well with certain Maldivian government officials as well as social media users who started foul-mouthing PM Modi as well as India. Mariyam Shiuna, the deputy minister of youth empowerment, information and arts referred to PM Modi as a 'clown' and a 'puppet of Israel' after he posted images from his visit to the archipelago. “What a clown. The puppet of Israel Mr Narendra diver with a life jacket #VisitMaldives,” Shiuna posted on X. Also read | Maldives jittery as ‘Lakshadweep’ remains top trend in India for second consecutive day Zahid Rameez, a Council member of the ruling Progressive Party of Maldives (PPM) also targeted India by posting: “The move is great. However, the idea of competing with us is delusional. How can they provide the service we offer? How can they be so clean? The permanent smell in the rooms will be the biggest downfall.” Maldives relies heavily on Indian tourists to keep its industry buoyant. According to a data, at the end of December 2023, as many as 209,198 Indian tourists arrived in Maldives for recreational purposes, making it the biggest demography to visit the island nation. (With inputs from agencies)

Maldivian government websites restored after outage due to suspected cyberattack

<p>‘Lakshadweep’ remained the most searched keyword on the internet in India for the second consecutive day on Friday (January 5) since Prime Minister Narendra Modi visited the Union Territory earlier this week and shared some photos from the picturesque archipelago. The term was ‘googled’ by over 50,000 users on the second day of PM Modi’s Jan 2-3 visit to the territory.</p>

<p>While posting his pictures across social media platforms, PM Modi expressed his continued admiration for the "stunning" beauty of the islands and the "incredible warmth" of its people.</p>

<p><strong>Watch:&nbsp;Gravitas | Could Lakshadweep replace Maldives as tourist haven?</strong></p>

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<p>The PM visited the UT to inaugurate the Kochi-Lakshadweep Islands Submarine Optical Fibre Connection and also lay the foundation stone for the renovation of the primary healthcare facility and five model Anganwadi centres in the region.</p>

<h2><strong>A trip to showcase the hidden beauty of Lakshadweep to the world</strong></h2>

<p>PM Modi’s trip to Lakshadweep had nothing in common with his other official engagements across the country. Not only did he lay the foundation for projects worth INR 1,150 crore but also showcase the serene beauty of the area aimed at unlocking its great tourism potential.</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">The most Googled term following PM Modi's images going viral is <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Lakshadweep?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Lakshadweep</a>. An Ambassador is unnecessary when we have our esteemed PM <a href="https://twitter.com/narendramodi?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@narendramodi</a> Ji.<br />
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Our own <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Maldives?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Maldives</a> in India 🇮🇳 <a href="https://t.co/Sk6XwrwbqD">pic.twitter.com/Sk6XwrwbqD</a></p>
— Sajid Yousuf Shah (@TheSkandar) <a href="https://twitter.com/TheSkandar/status/1743528588899447090?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 6, 2024</a></blockquote>
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<p>The breathtaking beauty of the archipelago resonated well with people across India, who wasted no time in looking for more information about the islands.</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">PM Modi tries his hand at snorkelling 🤿 in Lakshadweep <a href="https://t.co/8Imbn4AA5E">pic.twitter.com/8Imbn4AA5E</a></p>
— Shehzad Jai Hind (@Shehzad_Ind) <a href="https://twitter.com/Shehzad_Ind/status/1742838767264629028?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 4, 2024</a></blockquote>
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<p>Google Trends showed ‘Lakshadweep tour’ and ‘Lakshadweep packages’ were among the top trending keywords in India even on Saturday (Jan 6).</p>
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<h2><strong>Govt’s special focus on Lakshadweep</strong></h2>

<p>PM Modi in his post on X said that his government was committed “to building futuristic infrastructure in the Union Territory of Lakshadweep.” He added that efforts were being made to improve Lakshadweep’s healthcare facilities, internet availability and connectivity; all while ensuring the vibrant local culture is preserved.</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/extreme-cold-freezes-srinagars-dal-lake-turning-it-into-a-winter-spectacle-for-tourists-676402"><strong>Also read:&nbsp;Extreme cold freezes Srinagar's Dal lake, turning it into a winter spectacle for tourists</strong></a></p>

<p>"Our focus in Lakshadweep is to uplift lives through enhanced development. In addition to creating futuristic infrastructure, it is also about creating opportunities for better healthcare, faster internet and drinking water, while protecting as well celebrating the vibrant local culture. The projects that were inaugurated reflect this spirit," PM Modi added.</p>

<h2><strong>Politicians in Maldives ‘jittery’</strong></h2>

<p>PM Modi’s trip to Lakshadweep also fuelled this narrative on the internet that India was trying to boost tourism in the archipelago at the cost of Maldives, making some Maldivian politicians anxious.</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Nobody was talking about Lakshadweep, one visit by PM Modi and they started comparing it with Maldives. That's a checkmate moment.😂🔥 <a href="https://t.co/7U7U2KY7sW">pic.twitter.com/7U7U2KY7sW</a></p>
— Krishna (@Atheist_Krishna) <a href="https://twitter.com/Atheist_Krishna/status/1743528911768854862?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 6, 2024</a></blockquote>
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<p>Zahid Rameez, a member of the Progressive Party of Maldives, posted on X, “The move is great. However, the idea of competing with us is delusional. How can they provide the service we offer? How can they be so clean? The permanent smell in the rooms will be the biggest downfall.”</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">The move is great. However, the idea of competing with us is delusional. How can they provide the service we offer? How can they be so clean? The permanent smell in the rooms will be the biggest downfall. 🤷🏻‍♂️ <a href="https://t.co/AzWMkcxdcf">https://t.co/AzWMkcxdcf</a></p>
— Zahid Rameez (@xahidcreator) <a href="https://twitter.com/xahidcreator/status/1743093211437179133?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 5, 2024</a></blockquote>
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<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


‘Lakshadweep’ remained the most searched keyword on the internet in India for the second consecutive day on Friday (January 5) since Prime Minister Narendra Modi visited the Union Territory earlier this week and shared some photos from the picturesque archipelago.

‘Lakshadweep’ remained the most searched keyword on the internet in India for the second consecutive day on Friday (January 5) since Prime Minister Narendra Modi visited the Union Territory earlier this week and shared some photos from the picturesque archipelago. The term was ‘googled’ by over 50,000 users on the second day of PM Modi’s Jan 2-3 visit to the territory. While posting his pictures across social media platforms, PM Modi expressed his continued admiration for the "stunning" beauty of the islands and the "incredible warmth" of its people. Watch: Gravitas | Could Lakshadweep replace Maldives as tourist haven? × The PM visited the UT to inaugurate the Kochi-Lakshadweep Islands Submarine Optical Fibre Connection and also lay the foundation stone for the renovation of the primary healthcare facility and five model Anganwadi centres in the region. A trip to showcase the hidden beauty of Lakshadweep to the world PM Modi’s trip to Lakshadweep had nothing in common with his other official engagements across the country. Not only did he lay the foundation for projects worth INR 1,150 crore but also showcase the serene beauty of the area aimed at unlocking its great tourism potential. The most Googled term following PM Modi's images going viral is #Lakshadweep. An Ambassador is unnecessary when we have our esteemed PM @narendramodi Ji. Our own #Maldives in India 🇮🇳 pic.twitter.com/Sk6XwrwbqD — Sajid Yousuf Shah (@TheSkandar) January 6, 2024 × The breathtaking beauty of the archipelago resonated well with people across India, who wasted no time in looking for more information about the islands. PM Modi tries his hand at snorkelling 🤿 in Lakshadweep pic.twitter.com/8Imbn4AA5E — Shehzad Jai Hind (@Shehzad_Ind) January 4, 2024 × Google Trends showed ‘Lakshadweep tour’ and ‘Lakshadweep packages’ were among the top trending keywords in India even on Saturday (Jan 6). Govt’s special focus on Lakshadweep PM Modi in his post on X said that his government was committed “to building futuristic infrastructure in the Union Territory of Lakshadweep.” He added that efforts were being made to improve Lakshadweep’s healthcare facilities, internet availability and connectivity; all while ensuring the vibrant local culture is preserved. Also read: Extreme cold freezes Srinagar's Dal lake, turning it into a winter spectacle for tourists "Our focus in Lakshadweep is to uplift lives through enhanced development. In addition to creating futuristic infrastructure, it is also about creating opportunities for better healthcare, faster internet and drinking water, while protecting as well celebrating the vibrant local culture. The projects that were inaugurated reflect this spirit," PM Modi added. Politicians in Maldives ‘jittery’ PM Modi’s trip to Lakshadweep also fuelled this narrative on the internet that India was trying to boost tourism in the archipelago at the cost of Maldives, making some Maldivian politicians anxious. Nobody was talking about Lakshadweep, one visit by PM Modi and they started comparing it with Maldives. That's a checkmate moment.😂🔥 pic.twitter.com/7U7U2KY7sW — Krishna (@Atheist_Krishna) January 6, 2024 × Zahid Rameez, a member of the Progressive Party of Maldives, posted on X, “The move is great. However, the idea of competing with us is delusional. How can they provide the service we offer? How can they be so clean? The permanent smell in the rooms will be the biggest downfall.” The move is great. However, the idea of competing with us is delusional. How can they provide the service we offer? How can they be so clean? The permanent smell in the rooms will be the biggest downfall. 🤷🏻‍♂️ https://t.co/AzWMkcxdcf — Zahid Rameez (@xahidcreator) January 5, 2024 × (With inputs from agencies)

Maldives jittery as ‘Lakshadweep’ remains top trend in India for second consecutive day

In Pics | PM Modi goes snorkelling in Lakshadweep

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<p>The Dornier-228 Maritime patrol aircraft of the Indian Navy made history by performing a night landing at the country's only airstrip in the Lakshadweep archipelago, on the western seaboard. Located nearly 460 kilometres west of Kerala's Kochi city, the Agatti atoll houses the lone airstrip available in the union territory of Lakshadweep.&nbsp;</p>

<p>While the airstrip there, operated by the Airports Authority of India (AAI) was inaugurated in April 1988 for the operation of Dornier-228, the operations were extended to the ATR-72 aircraft in September 2010. However, owing to the short runway length and limited airfield services available, both civil and military aircraft operated only during daylight hours.&nbsp;</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">The successful night trials paves way for future operations of DO-228 aircraft from this airfield by night &amp; will boost <a href="https://twitter.com/indiannavy?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@indiannavy</a>'s efforts towards round the clock <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/maritime?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#maritime</a> surveillance &amp; support to the islands.(2/2)<a href="https://twitter.com/DefenceMinIndia?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@DefenceMinIndia</a><a href="https://twitter.com/indiannavy?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@indiannavy</a><a href="https://twitter.com/SpokespersonMoD?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@SpokespersonMoD</a><a href="https://twitter.com/prafulkpatel?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@prafulkpatel</a> <a href="https://t.co/inTobHjuWw">pic.twitter.com/inTobHjuWw</a></p>
— PRO Defence Kochi (@DefencePROkochi) <a href="https://twitter.com/DefencePROkochi/status/1580877513546690561?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 14, 2022</a></blockquote>
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<p>Under the aegis of the Indian Navy, the Southern Naval Command (the lone training command of the Indian Navy) took the initiative to overcome this limitation and worked with AAI and the Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA).</p>

<p>The maiden night landing was successfully carried out on October 13. As part of the trials, multiple approaches and landings were carried out from both sides of the runway to validate the suitability of operations.&nbsp;</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/indias-heaviest-rocket-to-have-maiden-commercial-flight-on-oct-23rd-36-satellites-to-be-launched-525422"><strong>Read more:&nbsp;ISRO to launch 36 'OneWeb' satellites in maiden commercial flight of GSLV Mk III on Oct. 23</strong></a></p>

<p>The successful night trials would enable future night operations of the Navy's Dornier-228 aircraft and boost the Navy's efforts towards round-the-clock maritime surveillance and support to the islands.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>WATCH WION LIVE HERE:&nbsp;</strong></p>

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<p>&nbsp;</p>


The Dornier-228 Maritime patrol aircraft of the Indian Navy made history by performing a night landing at the country's only airstrip in the Lakshadweep archipelago, on the western seaboard.

The Dornier-228 Maritime patrol aircraft of the Indian Navy made history by performing a night landing at the country's only airstrip in the Lakshadweep archipelago, on the western seaboard. Located nearly 460 kilometres west of Kerala's Kochi city, the Agatti atoll houses the lone airstrip available in the union territory of Lakshadweep. While the airstrip there, operated by the Airports Authority of India (AAI) was inaugurated in April 1988 for the operation of Dornier-228, the operations were extended to the ATR-72 aircraft in September 2010. However, owing to the short runway length and limited airfield services available, both civil and military aircraft operated only during daylight hours. The successful night trials paves way for future operations of DO-228 aircraft from this airfield by night & will boost @indiannavy's efforts towards round the clock #maritime surveillance & support to the islands.(2/2)@DefenceMinIndia@indiannavy@SpokespersonMoD@prafulkpatel pic.twitter.com/inTobHjuWw — PRO Defence Kochi (@DefencePROkochi) October 14, 2022 × Under the aegis of the Indian Navy, the Southern Naval Command (the lone training command of the Indian Navy) took the initiative to overcome this limitation and worked with AAI and the Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA). The maiden night landing was successfully carried out on October 13. As part of the trials, multiple approaches and landings were carried out from both sides of the runway to validate the suitability of operations. Read more: ISRO to launch 36 'OneWeb' satellites in maiden commercial flight of GSLV Mk III on Oct. 23 The successful night trials would enable future night operations of the Navy's Dornier-228 aircraft and boost the Navy's efforts towards round-the-clock maritime surveillance and support to the islands. WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

India: Navy's Dornier patrol aircraft makes maiden night landing at Lakshadweep archipelago

With 3 conflicts looming in 3 different parts of the world, America's global leadership is being put to the test. To overcome these conflicts, Joe Biden will need allies. But Washington's recent adventurism near Lakshadweep sends mixed signals. WION's Palki Sharma has more.

Gravitas: US needs to reboot alliance politics

<p>The unauthorised passage of a US naval ship through India’s Exclusive Economic Zone (EEZ) has created a highly avoidable controversy, which prima-facie may appear to be a case of the conflict arising out of the interpretation and application of international and national laws but in fact, there is more than what meets the eyes and remains to be revealed.</p>

<p>The US 7th Fleet Commander announced (from an unspecified location in Arabian Sea) that “on 7th April 2021, the USS John Paul Jones (DDG53) (a guided-missile destroyer) asserted navigational rights and freedoms approximately 130 nautical miles west of the Lakshadweep Islands, inside India’s exclusive economic zone, without requesting India’s prior consent”. It said its act was “consistent with international law”.&nbsp;</p>

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<p>The statement did not stop here but went on to add that India’s requirement of “prior consent for military exercises or manoeuvres in its exclusive economic zone or continental shelf”, was &nbsp;“inconsistent with international law”.&nbsp;</p>

<p>As if to add insult to injury, the US Navy asserted that the Freedom of Navigation Operation (FONOP) “upheld the rights, freedoms, and lawful uses of the sea recognized in international law by challenging India’s excessive maritime claims”. Placing restrictions on the passage of ships through its territorial sea waters and EEZ etc. by any state is described by the USA as “excessive maritime claims”&nbsp;</p>

<p>It is apparent from the official statement that the US Navy’s decision not to send a prior notice or seek India’s prior consent was by design and not by default or any oversight. Besides, asserting the freedom of navigation in international waters, the US objective was also to challenge India’s national laws and stated position on the requirement of obtaining prior consent and also to act in defiance of India’s national laws. A serious enough matter.</p>

<p>Yet, India’s public response was reasonably guarded, dignified and restrained. According to an official statement by the Foreign Office (April 9), India has conveyed its “concerns regarding this passage through our EEZ to the Government of USA through diplomatic channels.”&nbsp;</p>

<p>No further details were made public.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Read |</strong> <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-protests-us-navys-transit-through-its-exclusive-economic-zone-376721"><strong>India protests US Navy's transit through its exclusive economic zone</strong></a><br />
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However, India has countered the US position by stating that the “Government of India’s stated position on the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS) is that the convention does not authorise other states to carry out in the Exclusive Economic Zone and on the continental shelf, military exercises or manoeuvres, in particular, those involving the use of weapons or explosives, without the consent of the coastal state”.</p>

<p>The Statement also puts on record that the ship’s movements were being monitored throughout, implying that the Indian Navy was alert and not caught by surprise.</p>

<p>The US Navy has repeatedly justified its act as being consistent with “international law”. The UNCLOS 1982 is the only well-established international law on the subject under reference. Interestingly– or rather ironically- the US has not yet ratified UNCLOS, though it claims to adhere to several of its principles. &nbsp;</p>

<p>India is a signatory to UNCLOS and has also ratified it. In addition, there is national legislation governing the coastal regions within the sovereignty of India known as the Territorial Waters, Continental Shelf, Exclusive Economic Zone and others under Maritime Zones Act, 1976.</p>

<p>Section 4(2) of this act allows foreign warships including submarines and other underwater vehicles to enter or pass through the territorial waters after giving prior notice to the Central Government. They are also required to navigate on the surface and show their flags.&nbsp;</p>

<p>India is not the only country that imposes restrictions on the innocent passage of foreign military ships.</p>

<p>Even though one of the fundamental principles of UNCLOS is that all ships of all states, including both civilian and military vessels, enjoy the right of innocent passage through the territorial sea of other states, the fact of the matter is that not all countries agree with this interpretation, particularly where the innocent passage of military vessels is concerned. &nbsp;</p>

<p>According to a briefing paper of June 2017 by the Harvard Kennedy School, titled “Freedom of Navigation in South China Sea: A Practical Guide", over 40 states impose restrictions on the innocent passage of military ships, including requiring permission or notice prior to transit under innocent passage.</p>

<p>The significance of this episode is not only in the legal aspects of the case. The cause of serious concern is the arrogant manner in which the US Navy has acted deliberately to challenge India’s position and has also gone public without caring for the implications.</p>

<p>The USA is known to challenge the “excessive maritime claims” by other states either through diplomatic communications, or bilateral/multilateral discussions or operational assertions. It is not clear as to whether the USA has exhausted the first two options with India before opting for “operational assertion” on April 7. &nbsp;</p>

<p>Most probably not.</p>

<p>As two sovereign countries, India and the USA have the legitimate right to differ with each other on any given matter.</p>

<p>However, the irresponsible and amateurish manner in which the US Navy decided to highlight this difference of opinion and enforce its own position and make it public is in complete contrast with the rapid growth in India-US ties culminating into “comprehensive global strategic partnership”; this is true in particular in defence and security areas.&nbsp;</p>

<p>For instance, in 2016, the United States designated India as a Major Defence Partner; in 2018, India was elevated to Strategic Trade Authorization Tier 1 status, which allows India to receive license-free access to a wide range of military and dual-use technologies regulated by the US Department of Commerce.&nbsp;</p>

<p>India and US have concluded the four defence and security related foundational agreements namely Logistics Exchange Memorandum of Agreement (LEMOA), Communications, Compatibility and Security Agreement (COMCASA), the Industrial Security Agreement (ISA) and Basic Exchange and Communication Agreement (BECA).</p>

<p>The US’s total defence trade with India has increased from near zero in 2008 to over $20 billion in 2020. &nbsp;The two countries have been participating in regular joint multilateral military exercises such as Malabar and tri-services exercises e.g. Triumph.&nbsp;</p>

<p>It is noteworthy that the incident took place in close heels of the Quad Summit (March 13) when both India and USA (along with Australia and Japan) reiterated their commitment to freedom of navigation in the Indo-Pacific region which they would like to see as open, free and inclusive, where the rule of law prevails.<br />
&nbsp;<br />
Further, in the first outreach by the Biden Administration, the US Defence Secretary Lloyd Austin paid a three-day visit to India from March 19, 2021, during which he termed India as a “great partner” and reaffirmed the importance which the USA attaches to India in promoting peace and stability in Indo-Pacific region.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The US fully realises the important role which only India can play in support of the US plans to contain China.&nbsp;</p>

<p>In the above backdrop, the manner in which the US Navy has conducted itself publically is beyond comprehension but for sure objectionable.&nbsp;</p>

<p>It is difficult to digest- as being speculated by some international affairs analysts- that India was targeted with the objective of sending a message to China whose assertive, aggressive and expansionist behaviour in the Indo-Pacific is of concern to USA as well as many other countries in the region, including India.&nbsp;</p>

<p>It would be even more absurd to suggest that it was an operation jointly scripted by the USA and India to target a common adversary namely China.</p>

<p>The canvas of the Indo-US relations at the moment is extremely broad; this incident is, therefore, unlikely to cause any serious dent. It is important at the same time that the required measures are taken immediately to prevent the recurrence of such or similar incidents. A publicised damage control measure by the US Navy would be a bonus.</p>

<p><strong>(Disclaimer: The views of the writer do not represent the views of WION or ZMCL. Nor does WION or ZMCL endorse the views of the writer.)</strong></p>


The unauthorised passage of a US naval ship through India’s Exclusive Economic Zone (EEZ) has created a highly avoidable controversy, which prima-facie may appear to be a case of the conflict arising out of the interpretation and application of international and national laws but in fact, there is more than what meets the eyes and remains to be revealed.

The unauthorised passage of a US naval ship through India’s Exclusive Economic Zone (EEZ) has created a highly avoidable controversy, which prima-facie may appear to be a case of the conflict arising out of the interpretation and application of international and national laws but in fact, there is more than what meets the eyes and remains to be revealed. The US 7th Fleet Commander announced (from an unspecified location in Arabian Sea) that “on 7th April 2021, the USS John Paul Jones (DDG53) (a guided-missile destroyer) asserted navigational rights and freedoms approximately 130 nautical miles west of the Lakshadweep Islands, inside India’s exclusive economic zone, without requesting India’s prior consent”. It said its act was “consistent with international law”. × The statement did not stop here but went on to add that India’s requirement of “prior consent for military exercises or manoeuvres in its exclusive economic zone or continental shelf”, was “inconsistent with international law”. As if to add insult to injury, the US Navy asserted that the Freedom of Navigation Operation (FONOP) “upheld the rights, freedoms, and lawful uses of the sea recognized in international law by challenging India’s excessive maritime claims”. Placing restrictions on the passage of ships through its territorial sea waters and EEZ etc. by any state is described by the USA as “excessive maritime claims” It is apparent from the official statement that the US Navy’s decision not to send a prior notice or seek India’s prior consent was by design and not by default or any oversight. Besides, asserting the freedom of navigation in international waters, the US objective was also to challenge India’s national laws and stated position on the requirement of obtaining prior consent and also to act in defiance of India’s national laws. A serious enough matter. Yet, India’s public response was reasonably guarded, dignified and restrained. According to an official statement by the Foreign Office (April 9), India has conveyed its “concerns regarding this passage through our EEZ to the Government of USA through diplomatic channels.” No further details were made public. Read | India protests US Navy's transit through its exclusive economic zone However, India has countered the US position by stating that the “Government of India’s stated position on the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS) is that the convention does not authorise other states to carry out in the Exclusive Economic Zone and on the continental shelf, military exercises or manoeuvres, in particular, those involving the use of weapons or explosives, without the consent of the coastal state”. The Statement also puts on record that the ship’s movements were being monitored throughout, implying that the Indian Navy was alert and not caught by surprise. The US Navy has repeatedly justified its act as being consistent with “international law”. The UNCLOS 1982 is the only well-established international law on the subject under reference. Interestingly– or rather ironically- the US has not yet ratified UNCLOS, though it claims to adhere to several of its principles. India is a signatory to UNCLOS and has also ratified it. In addition, there is national legislation governing the coastal regions within the sovereignty of India known as the Territorial Waters, Continental Shelf, Exclusive Economic Zone and others under Maritime Zones Act, 1976. Section 4(2) of this act allows foreign warships including submarines and other underwater vehicles to enter or pass through the territorial waters after giving prior notice to the Central Government. They are also required to navigate on the surface and show their flags. India is not the only country that imposes restrictions on the innocent passage of foreign military ships. Even though one of the fundamental principles of UNCLOS is that all ships of all states, including both civilian and military vessels, enjoy the right of innocent passage through the territorial sea of other states, the fact of the matter is that not all countries agree with this interpretation, particularly where the innocent passage of military vessels is concerned. According to a briefing paper of June 2017 by the Harvard Kennedy School, titled “Freedom of Navigation in South China Sea: A Practical Guide", over 40 states impose restrictions on the innocent passage of military ships, including requiring permission or notice prior to transit under innocent passage. The significance of this episode is not only in the legal aspects of the case. The cause of serious concern is the arrogant manner in which the US Navy has acted deliberately to challenge India’s position and has also gone public without caring for the implications. The USA is known to challenge the “excessive maritime claims” by other states either through diplomatic communications, or bilateral/multilateral discussions or operational assertions. It is not clear as to whether the USA has exhausted the first two options with India before opting for “operational assertion” on April 7. Most probably not. As two sovereign countries, India and the USA have the legitimate right to differ with each other on any given matter. However, the irresponsible and amateurish manner in which the US Navy decided to highlight this difference of opinion and enforce its own position and make it public is in complete contrast with the rapid growth in India-US ties culminating into “comprehensive global strategic partnership”; this is true in particular in defence and security areas. For instance, in 2016, the United States designated India as a Major Defence Partner; in 2018, India was elevated to Strategic Trade Authorization Tier 1 status, which allows India to receive license-free access to a wide range of military and dual-use technologies regulated by the US Department of Commerce. India and US have concluded the four defence and security related foundational agreements namely Logistics Exchange Memorandum of Agreement (LEMOA), Communications, Compatibility and Security Agreement (COMCASA), the Industrial Security Agreement (ISA) and Basic Exchange and Communication Agreement (BECA). The US’s total defence trade with India has increased from near zero in 2008 to over $20 billion in 2020. The two countries have been participating in regular joint multilateral military exercises such as Malabar and tri-services exercises e.g. Triumph. It is noteworthy that the incident took place in close heels of the Quad Summit (March 13) when both India and USA (along with Australia and Japan) reiterated their commitment to freedom of navigation in the Indo-Pacific region which they would like to see as open, free and inclusive, where the rule of law prevails. Further, in the first outreach by the Biden Administration, the US Defence Secretary Lloyd Austin paid a three-day visit to India from March 19, 2021, during which he termed India as a “great partner” and reaffirmed the importance which the USA attaches to India in promoting peace and stability in Indo-Pacific region. The US fully realises the important role which only India can play in support of the US plans to contain China. In the above backdrop, the manner in which the US Navy has conducted itself publically is beyond comprehension but for sure objectionable. It is difficult to digest- as being speculated by some international affairs analysts- that India was targeted with the objective of sending a message to China whose assertive, aggressive and expansionist behaviour in the Indo-Pacific is of concern to USA as well as many other countries in the region, including India. It would be even more absurd to suggest that it was an operation jointly scripted by the USA and India to target a common adversary namely China. The canvas of the Indo-US relations at the moment is extremely broad; this incident is, therefore, unlikely to cause any serious dent. It is important at the same time that the required measures are taken immediately to prevent the recurrence of such or similar incidents. A publicised damage control measure by the US Navy would be a bonus. (Disclaimer: The views of the writer do not represent the views of WION or ZMCL. Nor does WION or ZMCL endorse the views of the writer.)

Opinion: US Navy intrusion in Indian EEZ is beyond comprehension but objectionable

<p>India protested to the United States for a navy vessel conducting a transit through its exclusive economic zone (EEZ) without consent, the foreign ministry said on Friday, in a rare row between the friendly navies of the two countries.</p>

<p>The USS John Paul Jones "asserted navigational rights and freedoms," inside India's EEZ in line with international law by sailing about 130 nautical miles (241 km) west of India's Lakshadweep islands, the U.S. Seventh Fleet said in a statement on Wednesday.</p>

<p>But an Indian foreign ministry spokesman said in a statement that UN rules did not allow such passage without consent.</p>

<p>"The Government of India's stated position on the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea is that the Convention does not authorise other States to carry out in the Exclusive Economic Zone and on the continental shelf, military exercises or manoeuvres, in particular those involving the use of weapons or explosives, without the consent of the coastal state," the spokesman said.</p>

<p>India's military monitored the movement of the John Paul Jones as it transited from the Persian Gulf towards the Malacca Straits, the foreign ministry said.</p>

<p>The U.S. Navy has previously conducted so-called freedom of navigation sails through Indian waters without consent, with the last one in the fiscal year for 2019, according to an annual U.S. Defense Department report.</p>

<p>However, the former Chief of India's Naval Staff Arun Prakash questioned why the U.S. announced the operation in the waters of an apparent ally.</p>

<p>"For the 7th Fleet to carry out FoN missions in Indian EEZ in violation of our domestic law is bad enough. But publicising it?" he wrote on Twitter on Friday.</p>

<p>The navies of India and the United States carry out large scale exercises each year that now involve Japan and Australia. The four countries have formed an informal security grouping called the Quad to push back against China's expanding power.</p>


India protested to the United States for a navy vessel conducting a transit through its exclusive economic zone (EEZ) without consent, the foreign ministry said on Friday, in a rare row between the friendly navies of the two countries.

India protested to the United States for a navy vessel conducting a transit through its exclusive economic zone (EEZ) without consent, the foreign ministry said on Friday, in a rare row between the friendly navies of the two countries. The USS John Paul Jones "asserted navigational rights and freedoms," inside India's EEZ in line with international law by sailing about 130 nautical miles (241 km) west of India's Lakshadweep islands, the U.S. Seventh Fleet said in a statement on Wednesday. But an Indian foreign ministry spokesman said in a statement that UN rules did not allow such passage without consent. "The Government of India's stated position on the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea is that the Convention does not authorise other States to carry out in the Exclusive Economic Zone and on the continental shelf, military exercises or manoeuvres, in particular those involving the use of weapons or explosives, without the consent of the coastal state," the spokesman said. India's military monitored the movement of the John Paul Jones as it transited from the Persian Gulf towards the Malacca Straits, the foreign ministry said. The U.S. Navy has previously conducted so-called freedom of navigation sails through Indian waters without consent, with the last one in the fiscal year for 2019, according to an annual U.S. Defense Department report. However, the former Chief of India's Naval Staff Arun Prakash questioned why the U.S. announced the operation in the waters of an apparent ally. "For the 7th Fleet to carry out FoN missions in Indian EEZ in violation of our domestic law is bad enough. But publicising it?" he wrote on Twitter on Friday. The navies of India and the United States carry out large scale exercises each year that now involve Japan and Australia. The four countries have formed an informal security grouping called the Quad to push back against China's expanding power.

India protests US Navy's transit through its exclusive economic zone

<p>United States of America's naval operation near Lakshadweep has thrown up many questions and in the backdrop of Indo-US co-operation in the Quad alliance the recent development assumes interesting significance.</p>

<p>US naval manoeuvre near the Lakshadweep came out of the blue. There was no indication, no diplomatic outreach. What does this mean for the democratic axis? More importantly, is it a setback in the battle against China?<br />
&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Watch: Why did the US Navy conduct an operation near Lakshadweep</strong></p>

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/gravitas-why-did-the-us-navy-conduct-an-operation-near-lakshadweep-376542/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

<p>India and the US are strategic allies. It is a partnership built on shared ideals like democracy, freedom of speech and rule of law.</p>

<p>But today, there is a new common ground of security in the Indo-Pacific. Washington is betting on India to counter Beijing.</p>

<p>This is reflected in America's policy realignment. It started with Trump. And has gained momentum under Joe Biden. It is vital that both sides see the bigger picture.</p>

<p>This has been the case throughout history. Alliances survive as long as there is clarity on who the adversary is. For example, NATO has struggled to define itself.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The Quad must be wary of this. This so-called freedom of passage exercise was in simple terms, unnecessary. It wasn't a message to India, but to China. Washington wants to stamp its version of free navigation around the world. Allies, adversaries, it doesn't matter.</p>

<p>This move reiterates America's resolve. But at what cost? The South China Sea is a disputed region. There are dozens of claims and counter-claims. There is an active aggressor in the form of China.</p>

<p>On the other hand, India's Exclusive Economic Zone (EEZ) is not a disputed region. There are no ambiguous claims of sovereignty, and there is no aggressor here. So America's adventurism here seems unwarranted.</p>

<p>As allies, dialogue must be given priority. Differences have to be settled by diplomats, not warships.</p>

<p>Small incidents can escalate fast. A break between India and the US would hand China the advantage. Washington needs to be wary of this.</p>

<p>When Donald Trump was US President, he was accused of abandoning allies. He wanted to pull out troops from Germany. He asked South Korea to pay up for US deployments. Biden had some sharp words back then.</p>

<p>Now that he's president Biden is promising change. He has told his partners that America is back. But actions like this make you doubt his sincerity. The president was lauded for his push to convene a Quad summit.</p>

<p>It was the first time, leaders from the 4 countries met. However, as far as alliances go Quad is still a newbie. It must be cultivated into an iron bond. And India has been more than willing to engage.</p>

<p>New Delhi has repeatedly committed itself to a free and open Indo-Pacific. And more importantly to freedom of navigation. The joint statement issued last month after the Quad virtual summit was signed by all four partners including India.</p>

<p>"We support the rule of law, freedom of navigation and overflight, peaceful resolution of disputes, democratic values, and territorial integrity," said the statement.</p>

<p>This is the spirit of Quad as agreed by all leaders. It also featured in the phone call between PM Narendra Modi and US President Joe Biden.</p>

<p>Allies inform, they consult and they act together. Without a joint spirit, alliances will exist only in name. America has taken a risk by wading into India's EEZ.</p>

<p>Diplomats will most likely iron out the differences, but what about public opinion? On social media, Indians are not impressed by America's action. Domestic support is key to foreign alliances. They help leaders make long term commitments without stirring emotions back home.</p>

<p>A 2014 pew survey found that 56% Indians held a favourable view of America. Washington cannot let that number drop any further. With this move, the US has also put other allies on notice. Japan, Australia, South Korea will all be watching closely.</p>

<p>What is stopping US Ships from repeating this elsewhere? The American intention was to send a deadpan message. Ally or not, our worldview will prevail. But that's simply not how partnerships work.</p>


United States of America's naval operation near Lakshadweep has thrown up many questions and in the backdrop of Indo-US co-operation in the Quad alliance the recent development assumes interesting significance.

United States of America's naval operation near Lakshadweep has thrown up many questions and in the backdrop of Indo-US co-operation in the Quad alliance the recent development assumes interesting significance. US naval manoeuvre near the Lakshadweep came out of the blue. There was no indication, no diplomatic outreach. What does this mean for the democratic axis? More importantly, is it a setback in the battle against China? Watch: Why did the US Navy conduct an operation near Lakshadweep India and the US are strategic allies. It is a partnership built on shared ideals like democracy, freedom of speech and rule of law. But today, there is a new common ground of security in the Indo-Pacific. Washington is betting on India to counter Beijing. This is reflected in America's policy realignment. It started with Trump. And has gained momentum under Joe Biden. It is vital that both sides see the bigger picture. This has been the case throughout history. Alliances survive as long as there is clarity on who the adversary is. For example, NATO has struggled to define itself. The Quad must be wary of this. This so-called freedom of passage exercise was in simple terms, unnecessary. It wasn't a message to India, but to China. Washington wants to stamp its version of free navigation around the world. Allies, adversaries, it doesn't matter. This move reiterates America's resolve. But at what cost? The South China Sea is a disputed region. There are dozens of claims and counter-claims. There is an active aggressor in the form of China. On the other hand, India's Exclusive Economic Zone (EEZ) is not a disputed region. There are no ambiguous claims of sovereignty, and there is no aggressor here. So America's adventurism here seems unwarranted. As allies, dialogue must be given priority. Differences have to be settled by diplomats, not warships. Small incidents can escalate fast. A break between India and the US would hand China the advantage. Washington needs to be wary of this. When Donald Trump was US President, he was accused of abandoning allies. He wanted to pull out troops from Germany. He asked South Korea to pay up for US deployments. Biden had some sharp words back then. Now that he's president Biden is promising change. He has told his partners that America is back. But actions like this make you doubt his sincerity. The president was lauded for his push to convene a Quad summit. It was the first time, leaders from the 4 countries met. However, as far as alliances go Quad is still a newbie. It must be cultivated into an iron bond. And India has been more than willing to engage. New Delhi has repeatedly committed itself to a free and open Indo-Pacific. And more importantly to freedom of navigation. The joint statement issued last month after the Quad virtual summit was signed by all four partners including India. "We support the rule of law, freedom of navigation and overflight, peaceful resolution of disputes, democratic values, and territorial integrity," said the statement. This is the spirit of Quad as agreed by all leaders. It also featured in the phone call between PM Narendra Modi and US President Joe Biden. Allies inform, they consult and they act together. Without a joint spirit, alliances will exist only in name. America has taken a risk by wading into India's EEZ. Diplomats will most likely iron out the differences, but what about public opinion? On social media, Indians are not impressed by America's action. Domestic support is key to foreign alliances. They help leaders make long term commitments without stirring emotions back home. A 2014 pew survey found that 56% Indians held a favourable view of America. Washington cannot let that number drop any further. With this move, the US has also put other allies on notice. Japan, Australia, South Korea will all be watching closely. What is stopping US Ships from repeating this elsewhere? The American intention was to send a deadpan message. Ally or not, our worldview will prevail. But that's simply not how partnerships work.

US Navy manoeuvre near Lakshadweep was an unnecessary act

<p>In light of US Navy ship's foray into India and Maldives's Exclusive Economic Zone (EEZ), the focus is back on what do international laws say about such cases</p>

<p>The United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea came into operation on November 16, 1982, with the purpose of framing a global nautical law and protecting marine resources.</p>

<p>India ratified the law in 1995.</p>

<p>Here's what the UNCLOS says,</p>

<p><strong>1.</strong> A country has full sovereignty in its territorial waters.&nbsp;This is within 12 nautical miles from the country's coast</p>

<p><strong>2.</strong> UNCLOS says that a country has special rights in regard to the exploration of marine resources in its Exclusive Economic Zone (EEZ)<br />
<br />
<strong>Gravitas: Why is the U.S. antagonising India?</strong></p>

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/gravitas-why-is-the-us-antagonising-india-376538/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

<p>This zone stretches up to 200 nautical miles.</p>

<p>India follows this international convention. But it also has rules of its own. India says foreign vessels travelling through India's exclusive economic zone have to give prior notification. The same also applies to India's continental shelf. And prior permissions are required for military maneuvers or exercises.</p>

<p>However, there is no restriction on innocent passage. And this includes navies too.</p>

<p>The US naval fleet was at 130 nautical miles west of the Lakshadweep. This is well within India's EEZ.</p>

<p>The US says it was exercising freedom of navigation, upholding the 'rights, freedoms, and the lawful uses of the sea recognised in international law'.</p>

<p>The US Navy is quoting the UNCLOS.</p>

<p>But question arises as to can any country quote a convention without even having signed it. The US had not ratified the UNCLOS. There are 160 member parties. But the US is missing.</p>

<p>Washington does not agree with certain clauses of the UNCLOS dealing with the minerals found on the seabed of the EEZ</p>

<p>So it comes down to one question is the US even in a position to lecture India on International Law?</p>

<p>What Washington has done is a clear violation of India's rules.</p>


In light of US Navy ship's foray into India and Maldives's Exclusive Economic Zone (EEZ), the focus is back on what do international laws say about such cases The United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea came into operation on November 16, 1982, with the purpose of framing a global nautical law and protecting marine resources.

In light of US Navy ship's foray into India and Maldives's Exclusive Economic Zone (EEZ), the focus is back on what do international laws say about such cases The United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea came into operation on November 16, 1982, with the purpose of framing a global nautical law and protecting marine resources. India ratified the law in 1995. Here's what the UNCLOS says, 1. A country has full sovereignty in its territorial waters. This is within 12 nautical miles from the country's coast 2. UNCLOS says that a country has special rights in regard to the exploration of marine resources in its Exclusive Economic Zone (EEZ) Gravitas: Why is the U.S. antagonising India? This zone stretches up to 200 nautical miles. India follows this international convention. But it also has rules of its own. India says foreign vessels travelling through India's exclusive economic zone have to give prior notification. The same also applies to India's continental shelf. And prior permissions are required for military maneuvers or exercises. However, there is no restriction on innocent passage. And this includes navies too. The US naval fleet was at 130 nautical miles west of the Lakshadweep. This is well within India's EEZ. The US says it was exercising freedom of navigation, upholding the 'rights, freedoms, and the lawful uses of the sea recognised in international law'. The US Navy is quoting the UNCLOS. But question arises as to can any country quote a convention without even having signed it. The US had not ratified the UNCLOS. There are 160 member parties. But the US is missing. Washington does not agree with certain clauses of the UNCLOS dealing with the minerals found on the seabed of the EEZ So it comes down to one question is the US even in a position to lecture India on International Law? What Washington has done is a clear violation of India's rules.

Is US even in a position to lecture India on international law?

<p>Administrator of Lakshadweep Dineshwar Sharma passed away on Friday at the age of 66 at a Chennai hospital due to a lung-related ailment, Lakshadweep Resident Commissioner Asarpal Singh said.</p>

<p>The Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi condoled the demise of Sharma and recognised his contributions in strengthening the security of the country during his policing career.</p>

<p>"Administrator of Lakshadweep Shri Dineshwar Sharma Ji made long-lasting contributions to India`s policing and security apparatus. He handled many sensitive counter-terror and insurgency ops during his policing career. Anguished by his demise. Condolences to his family. Om Shanti," PM Modi tweeted.</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Administrator of Lakshadweep Shri Dineshwar Sharma Ji made long lasting contributions to India’s policing and security apparatus. He handled many sensitive counter terror and insurgency ops during his policing career. Anguished by his demise. Condolences to his family. Om Shanti.</p>
— Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) <a href="https://twitter.com/narendramodi/status/1334812703089573888?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 4, 2020</a></blockquote>
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<p>Union Home Minister Amit Shah also condoled Sharma`s demise. He tweeted: "Deeply anguished to learn about the passing away of Administrator of Lakshadweep Shri Dineshwar Sharma ji. He served the nation with utmost devotion as a dedicated officer of the Indian Police Service. My heartfelt condolences to his family in this hour of grief. Om Shanti."</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Deeply anguished to learn about the passing away of Administrator of Lakshadweep Shri Dineshwar Sharma ji. He served the nation with utmost devotion as a dedicated officer of the Indian Police Service. My heartfelt condolences to his family in this hour of grief. Om Shanti.</p>
— Amit Shah (@AmitShah) <a href="https://twitter.com/AmitShah/status/1334819433743695872?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 4, 2020</a></blockquote>
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<p>The Indian President Ram Nath Kovind had on October 23, 2020 appointed former interlocutor for Jammu and Kashmir Dineshwar Sharma as the Administrator of Lakshadweep.</p>

<p>A 1976-batch retired IPS officer of Kerala cadre, Sharma served as chief of the Intelligence Bureau (IB) from December 31, 2014 to May 2017.</p>

<p>He was appointed as the interlocutor for Jammu and Kashmir in 2017 during the first term of the Narendra Modi-led government.</p>


Administrator of Lakshadweep Dineshwar Sharma passed away on Friday at the age of 66 at a Chennai hospital due to a lung-related ailment, Lakshadweep Resident Commissioner Asarpal Singh said.

Administrator of Lakshadweep Dineshwar Sharma passed away on Friday at the age of 66 at a Chennai hospital due to a lung-related ailment, Lakshadweep Resident Commissioner Asarpal Singh said. The Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi condoled the demise of Sharma and recognised his contributions in strengthening the security of the country during his policing career. "Administrator of Lakshadweep Shri Dineshwar Sharma Ji made long-lasting contributions to India`s policing and security apparatus. He handled many sensitive counter-terror and insurgency ops during his policing career. Anguished by his demise. Condolences to his family. Om Shanti," PM Modi tweeted. Administrator of Lakshadweep Shri Dineshwar Sharma Ji made long lasting contributions to India’s policing and security apparatus. He handled many sensitive counter terror and insurgency ops during his policing career. Anguished by his demise. Condolences to his family. Om Shanti. — Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) December 4, 2020 × Union Home Minister Amit Shah also condoled Sharma`s demise. He tweeted: "Deeply anguished to learn about the passing away of Administrator of Lakshadweep Shri Dineshwar Sharma ji. He served the nation with utmost devotion as a dedicated officer of the Indian Police Service. My heartfelt condolences to his family in this hour of grief. Om Shanti." Deeply anguished to learn about the passing away of Administrator of Lakshadweep Shri Dineshwar Sharma ji. He served the nation with utmost devotion as a dedicated officer of the Indian Police Service. My heartfelt condolences to his family in this hour of grief. Om Shanti. — Amit Shah (@AmitShah) December 4, 2020 × The Indian President Ram Nath Kovind had on October 23, 2020 appointed former interlocutor for Jammu and Kashmir Dineshwar Sharma as the Administrator of Lakshadweep. A 1976-batch retired IPS officer of Kerala cadre, Sharma served as chief of the Intelligence Bureau (IB) from December 31, 2014 to May 2017. He was appointed as the interlocutor for Jammu and Kashmir in 2017 during the first term of the Narendra Modi-led government.

Lakshadweep administrator Dineshwar Sharma passes away, PM recalls his contribution to policing

<p>Severe Cyclonic storm ‘Maha’ over Lakshadweep and adjoining southeast the Arabian Sea moved further north-northwestwards and lay centred over the east-central Arabian Sea and adjoining Lakshadweep area about 90 km north-northeast of Aminidivi (Lakshadweep), according to the Indian Meteorological Department.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The IMD predicts that it is very likely to move northwestwards and thereafter move west-northwestwards, while rainfall is to occur over coastal Kerala, Karnataka and parts of Tamil Nadu. It is very likely to intensify into a very severe cyclonic storm over the east-central Arabian Sea.</p>

<p>Speaking to reporters in Chennai, Balachandran, Director, South Zone Head of IMD said, “Over the last 24 hours 33 places across Tamil Nadu and Puducherry received heavy rain whereas four places received very heavy rainfall. For the next 24 hours, there would be heavy rainfall across the Southern coastal districts and districts adjoining the western ghats. Other regions of the state and Puducherry would receive moderate rainfall.”</p>

<p>Fishermen have also been instructed to not venture towards Maldives, Lakshadweep, Kerala for the next 24 hours.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Tamil Nadu’s Revenue Minister R B Udhayakumar said, “we have three IAS officers deputed to monitor the situation across 32 districts and 12 boats from Kanyakumari, Tuticorin that are fishing in the high seas have been asked to return. People living in low-lying areas have been instructed to move to higher ground and SDRF teams are on standby as a precaution against landslides. Adequate measures are being taken to provide pumps for places where waterlogging is likely.”</p>

<p>While Cyclone 'Maha' has intensified into a severe cyclonic storm in the Arabian sea, there is a possibility of a depression forming in the Bay of Bengal by early next week. “Between November 4th and 5th a low pressure is likely to form in the West Andaman coast and is likely to move northwestwards and form as a depression”, Balachandran added.</p>


Severe Cyclonic storm ‘Maha’ over Lakshadweep and adjoining southeast the Arabian Sea moved further north-northwestwards and lay centred over the east-central Arabian Sea and adjoining Lakshadweep area about 90 km north-northeast of Aminidivi (Lakshadweep), according to the Indian Meteorological Department.

Severe Cyclonic storm ‘Maha’ over Lakshadweep and adjoining southeast the Arabian Sea moved further north-northwestwards and lay centred over the east-central Arabian Sea and adjoining Lakshadweep area about 90 km north-northeast of Aminidivi (Lakshadweep), according to the Indian Meteorological Department. The IMD predicts that it is very likely to move northwestwards and thereafter move west-northwestwards, while rainfall is to occur over coastal Kerala, Karnataka and parts of Tamil Nadu. It is very likely to intensify into a very severe cyclonic storm over the east-central Arabian Sea. Speaking to reporters in Chennai, Balachandran, Director, South Zone Head of IMD said, “Over the last 24 hours 33 places across Tamil Nadu and Puducherry received heavy rain whereas four places received very heavy rainfall. For the next 24 hours, there would be heavy rainfall across the Southern coastal districts and districts adjoining the western ghats. Other regions of the state and Puducherry would receive moderate rainfall.” Fishermen have also been instructed to not venture towards Maldives, Lakshadweep, Kerala for the next 24 hours. Tamil Nadu’s Revenue Minister R B Udhayakumar said, “we have three IAS officers deputed to monitor the situation across 32 districts and 12 boats from Kanyakumari, Tuticorin that are fishing in the high seas have been asked to return. People living in low-lying areas have been instructed to move to higher ground and SDRF teams are on standby as a precaution against landslides. Adequate measures are being taken to provide pumps for places where waterlogging is likely.” While Cyclone 'Maha' has intensified into a severe cyclonic storm in the Arabian sea, there is a possibility of a depression forming in the Bay of Bengal by early next week. “Between November 4th and 5th a low pressure is likely to form in the West Andaman coast and is likely to move northwestwards and form as a depression”, Balachandran added.

Cyclone 'Maha' centred near Lakshadweep; depression likely to form near Andaman by November 4

<p>The India Meteorological Department (IMD) on Wednesday said that isolated places over Lakshadweep, Tamil Nadu and Puducherry are likely to receive heavy rainfall today.</p>

<p>The weather forecast agency further predicted that heavy falls is also likely over Karaikal, Kerala and Mahe.</p>

<p>"Heavy rainfall at isolated places over Coastal Andhra Pradesh, Yanam, Telangana and Coastal and South Interior Karnataka," IMD stated in its All India Weather Warning Bulletin.</p>

<p>In Delhi, the sky will partly be cloudy with the minimum and maximum temperatures hovering around 19 degrees Celsius and 28 degrees Celsius.</p>

<p>The thunderstorm accompanied with lightning is very likely at isolated places over West Madhya Pradesh, Vidarbha, Madhya Maharashtra, Marathwada, Konkan and Goa, Coastal Andhra Pradesh, Yanam, Telangana, Rayalseema, Karnataka, Tamil Nadu, Puducherry, Karaikal, Kerala, Mahe and Lakshadweep.</p>

<p>The squally winds, speed reaching 45-55 kmph gusting to 65 kmph, is likely over Lakshadweep-Maldive areas and adjoining southeast Arabian Sea and along and off Kerala coast.</p>

<p>"Gale winds, speed reaching 140-150 kmph gusting to 170 kmph, very likely over west-central and adjoining east-central and the north Arabian Sea."</p>

<p>The sea condition is very likely to phenomenal over west-central and adjoining east-central and the north Arabian Sea and rough to very rough over the southeast Arabian Sea and adjoining Lakshadweep-Maldives areas and along and off Kerala and south Karnataka coasts.</p>

<p>The organisation has advised fishermen not to venture into these areas for the next couple of days.</p>

<p>The weather forecast agency also alerted about the Cyclone KYARR and said that this extremely severe cyclonic storm has moved north-northwestwards with a speed of 4 kmph during the past six hours.</p>

<p>It is very likely to move west-northwestwards till today, re-curve west-southwestwards thereafter and move towards the Gulf of Aden off south Oman-Yemen coasts during subsequent three days.</p>

<p>"It is very likely to weaken into a Very Severe Cyclonic Storm during the morning of October 30 and further into a Severe Cyclonic Storm by the morning of October 31," the IMD stated in its All India Weather Warning Bulletin.'</p>

<p>The well-marked low-pressure area now lies over Lakshadweep-Maldives areas and adjoining Comorin area with associated cyclonic circulation extending up to mid-tropospheric levels.</p>

<p>"The system is likely to concentrate into a Depression over Lakshadweep-Maldives areas and adjoining southeast Arabian Sea during the next 24 hours. It is likely to move northwestwards across the Lakshadweep Islands and intensify into Deep Depression during subsequent 24 hours."</p>

<p>Under the influence of the system over Comorin area and adjoining Equatorial Indian Ocean, heavy to very heavy rainfall is likely over Tamil Nadu, Kerala, Lakshadweep and heavy rainfall over Rayalseema and Karnataka up to October 31.&nbsp;<br />
&nbsp;</p>


The India Meteorological Department (IMD) on Wednesday said that isolated places over Lakshadweep, Tamil Nadu and Puducherry are likely to receive heavy rainfall today.

The India Meteorological Department (IMD) on Wednesday said that isolated places over Lakshadweep, Tamil Nadu and Puducherry are likely to receive heavy rainfall today. The weather forecast agency further predicted that heavy falls is also likely over Karaikal, Kerala and Mahe. "Heavy rainfall at isolated places over Coastal Andhra Pradesh, Yanam, Telangana and Coastal and South Interior Karnataka," IMD stated in its All India Weather Warning Bulletin. In Delhi, the sky will partly be cloudy with the minimum and maximum temperatures hovering around 19 degrees Celsius and 28 degrees Celsius. The thunderstorm accompanied with lightning is very likely at isolated places over West Madhya Pradesh, Vidarbha, Madhya Maharashtra, Marathwada, Konkan and Goa, Coastal Andhra Pradesh, Yanam, Telangana, Rayalseema, Karnataka, Tamil Nadu, Puducherry, Karaikal, Kerala, Mahe and Lakshadweep. The squally winds, speed reaching 45-55 kmph gusting to 65 kmph, is likely over Lakshadweep-Maldive areas and adjoining southeast Arabian Sea and along and off Kerala coast. "Gale winds, speed reaching 140-150 kmph gusting to 170 kmph, very likely over west-central and adjoining east-central and the north Arabian Sea." The sea condition is very likely to phenomenal over west-central and adjoining east-central and the north Arabian Sea and rough to very rough over the southeast Arabian Sea and adjoining Lakshadweep-Maldives areas and along and off Kerala and south Karnataka coasts. The organisation has advised fishermen not to venture into these areas for the next couple of days. The weather forecast agency also alerted about the Cyclone KYARR and said that this extremely severe cyclonic storm has moved north-northwestwards with a speed of 4 kmph during the past six hours. It is very likely to move west-northwestwards till today, re-curve west-southwestwards thereafter and move towards the Gulf of Aden off south Oman-Yemen coasts during subsequent three days. "It is very likely to weaken into a Very Severe Cyclonic Storm during the morning of October 30 and further into a Severe Cyclonic Storm by the morning of October 31," the IMD stated in its All India Weather Warning Bulletin.' The well-marked low-pressure area now lies over Lakshadweep-Maldives areas and adjoining Comorin area with associated cyclonic circulation extending up to mid-tropospheric levels. "The system is likely to concentrate into a Depression over Lakshadweep-Maldives areas and adjoining southeast Arabian Sea during the next 24 hours. It is likely to move northwestwards across the Lakshadweep Islands and intensify into Deep Depression during subsequent 24 hours." Under the influence of the system over Comorin area and adjoining Equatorial Indian Ocean, heavy to very heavy rainfall is likely over Tamil Nadu, Kerala, Lakshadweep and heavy rainfall over Rayalseema and Karnataka up to October 31.

Lakshadweep, Tamil Nadu to receive heavy rainfall today: IMD

Sri Lanka is still healing from explosion of Easter. There is a intelligence report after a month of bombings which claimed ISIS terrorists travelling to Lakshadweep by boat. Following this Kerala Coast is on high alert.

Gravitas: 15 Terrorists Head To Lakshadweep

<p>Union Minister for Social Justice Thawar Chand Gehlot on Wednesday said West Bengal has the highest number of beggars and vagrants in India, according to news agency ANI.</p>

<p>The country in total has over four lakh beggars, with the highest 81,000 beggars in West Bengal, while Lakshadweep merely has two vagrants.</p>

<p>At least 4,13,670 beggars reside in India, which consists of 2,21,673 males and 1,91,997 females, the report further said.</p>

<p>Gehlot in a written reply to Lok Sabha quoted a 2011 census and mentioned that Uttar Pradesh and Andhra Pradesh stood at second and third positions, with 65,835 and 30,218 beggars respectively.</p>

<p>The union territories have the least number of beggars.</p>

<p>As per the government report, there are only two beggars in Lakshadweep, while Dadra Nagar Haveli, Daman and Diu and the Andaman and Nicobar islands have 19, 22 and 56 vagrants respectively.</p>

<p>Amongst the UT&#39;s New Delhi and Chandigarh have the largest numbers of beggars. In the national capital, there are 2,187 beggars and whereas the city beautiful homes 121.</p>


Lakshadweep has the lowest number of panhandlers — only 2

Union Minister for Social Justice Thawar Chand Gehlot on Wednesday said West Bengal has the highest number of beggars and vagrants in India, according to news agency ANI. The country in total has over four lakh beggars, with the highest 81,000 beggars in West Bengal, while Lakshadweep merely has two vagrants. At least 4,13,670 beggars reside in India, which consists of 2,21,673 males and 1,91,997 females, the report further said. Gehlot in a written reply to Lok Sabha quoted a 2011 census and mentioned that Uttar Pradesh and Andhra Pradesh stood at second and third positions, with 65,835 and 30,218 beggars respectively. The union territories have the least number of beggars. As per the government report, there are only two beggars in Lakshadweep, while Dadra Nagar Haveli, Daman and Diu and the Andaman and Nicobar islands have 19, 22 and 56 vagrants respectively. Amongst the UT's New Delhi and Chandigarh have the largest numbers of beggars. In the national capital, there are 2,187 beggars and whereas the city beautiful homes 121.

Over 4 lakh beggars in India, West Bengal tops chart with 81,000

<p>A Maersk container ship, with 27 crew members on board including 13 Indians, caught fire in the Arabian Sea near the Lakshadweep Islands last night, the Indian Coast Guard (ICG) said today.&nbsp;</p>

<p>While 23 crew members have been rescued, four have been reported to be missing, one of whom was an Indian. The Indian Navy has launched a rescue mission from Arakkonam, Tamil Nadu using Boeing P8 with a Search &amp; Rescue kit&nbsp;(SAR kit) to find the&nbsp;missing crew members.</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Maersk Container Ship with 27 crew members on-board caught fire following an explosion at sea at 340 nautical miles from Agatti in Lakshwadeep Islands; 23 rescued, search operation for 4 missing members underway by Indian Coast Guard &amp; Maritime Rescue Coordination Center <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Mumbai?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Mumbai</a> <a href="https://t.co/1SaqhV52nT">pic.twitter.com/1SaqhV52nT</a></p>
&mdash; ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/971250196100386816?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 7, 2018</a></blockquote>
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<p>&nbsp;</p>

<p>Casualties are feared in the disaster that struck on the high seas around 9.45 pm&nbsp;on Tuesday. The cause of the incident which occurred off the south-west coast of India, is not yet known, the official said.</p>

<p>The captain is also an Indian and the remaining crew are Philipino, British, Romanian and Thai.&nbsp;The crew had abandoned the ship as fire spread beyond their control.</p>

<p>The 330-metre-long Maersk Honam, which was en route to Suez from Singapore, caught fire last night with flames from the main deck of the ship rising up to its bridge (a height of about 25 metres), it said in a statement. The vessel reported an explosion and fire on board and requested immediate assistance.</p>

<p>The ship was at a distance of 570 km (340 nautical miles) from Agatti in the Lakshwadeep Islands. The Coast Guard has pressed into action its assets for the rescue operation, it said. &ldquo;The ship had 27 crew members on board, of whom four are missing. Out of the 27 crew members, 13 are Indians including the captain of the ship,&rdquo; the ICG said.</p>

<p>After getting information about the mishap, the Maritime Rescue Coordination Centre (MRCC) in Mumbai immediately alerted all the merchant ships near the location through the satellite-based communication network, the International Safety Net (ISN), ICG said.</p>

<p>The ICGS Shoor, patrolling near Lakshadweep Islands was diverted to assist the distressed vessel. ICGS Shoor is an Offshore patrol vessel with specialised fire fighting equipment on board.</p>

<p>&ldquo;The search operations are on and the Coast Guard assets have been pressed into action,&rdquo; said Inspector General K R Nautiyal, the commander of the Coast Guard West region. &ldquo;It is our priority to save and rescue the four missing crew and also continue our efforts to salvage the vessel with the assistance of specialised vessels, which are being arranged,&rdquo; he added.</p>


The Indian Navy has launched a rescue mission from Arakkonam, Tamil Nadu using Boeing P8 with a Search & Rescue kit (SAR kit) to find the missing crew members

A Maersk container ship, with 27 crew members on board including 13 Indians, caught fire in the Arabian Sea near the Lakshadweep Islands last night, the Indian Coast Guard (ICG) said today. While 23 crew members have been rescued, four have been reported to be missing, one of whom was an Indian. The Indian Navy has launched a rescue mission from Arakkonam, Tamil Nadu using Boeing P8 with a Search & Rescue kit (SAR kit) to find the missing crew members. Maersk Container Ship with 27 crew members on-board caught fire following an explosion at sea at 340 nautical miles from Agatti in Lakshwadeep Islands; 23 rescued, search operation for 4 missing members underway by Indian Coast Guard & Maritime Rescue Coordination Center #Mumbai pic.twitter.com/1SaqhV52nT — ANI (@ANI) March 7, 2018 × Casualties are feared in the disaster that struck on the high seas around 9.45 pm on Tuesday. The cause of the incident which occurred off the south-west coast of India, is not yet known, the official said. The captain is also an Indian and the remaining crew are Philipino, British, Romanian and Thai. The crew had abandoned the ship as fire spread beyond their control. The 330-metre-long Maersk Honam, which was en route to Suez from Singapore, caught fire last night with flames from the main deck of the ship rising up to its bridge (a height of about 25 metres), it said in a statement. The vessel reported an explosion and fire on board and requested immediate assistance. The ship was at a distance of 570 km (340 nautical miles) from Agatti in the Lakshwadeep Islands. The Coast Guard has pressed into action its assets for the rescue operation, it said. “The ship had 27 crew members on board, of whom four are missing. Out of the 27 crew members, 13 are Indians including the captain of the ship,” the ICG said. After getting information about the mishap, the Maritime Rescue Coordination Centre (MRCC) in Mumbai immediately alerted all the merchant ships near the location through the satellite-based communication network, the International Safety Net (ISN), ICG said. The ICGS Shoor, patrolling near Lakshadweep Islands was diverted to assist the distressed vessel. ICGS Shoor is an Offshore patrol vessel with specialised fire fighting equipment on board. “The search operations are on and the Coast Guard assets have been pressed into action,” said Inspector General K R Nautiyal, the commander of the Coast Guard West region. “It is our priority to save and rescue the four missing crew and also continue our efforts to salvage the vessel with the assistance of specialised vessels, which are being arranged,” he added.

Maersk ship catches fire near Lakshadweep, 4 missing

<p>&quot;Our rescue efforts will never fall short,&quot; Prime Minister Narendra Modi told the families of the people still missing because of Cyclone Ockhi.&nbsp;</p>

<p>&quot;Government of India is with you in every way, our rescue efforts will never fall short and we will help you in every way, I am here to assure you about this. We pray that all those missing, can return home before Christmas,&quot; he said.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Modi was speaking in Poonthura, Kerala.&nbsp;</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Gov of India is with you in every way, our rescue efforts will never fall short &amp; we will help you in every way, I am here to assure you about this. We pray that all those missing, can return home before Christmas: PM Modi in Kerala&#39;s Poonthura <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/CycloneOckhi?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#CycloneOckhi</a> <a href="https://t.co/jzxU5aEOSP">pic.twitter.com/jzxU5aEOSP</a></p>
&mdash; ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/943088380639789056?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 19, 2017</a></blockquote>
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<p>&nbsp;</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">PM Narendra Modi meets families affected by <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/CycloneOckhi?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#CycloneOckhi</a> in Kerala&#39;s Poonthura, says, &#39;govt will do everything possible to bring back the missing people&#39; <a href="https://t.co/oqR0Ix35FW">pic.twitter.com/oqR0Ix35FW</a></p>
&mdash; ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/943087229496311810?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 19, 2017</a></blockquote>
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<p>Modi also reviewed relief operations in Thiruvananthapuram along with&nbsp;Kerala Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan.&nbsp;</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">PM Narendra Modi reviews relief operations in Kerala&#39;s Thiruvananthapuram. CM Pinarayi Vijayan also present, <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/CycloneOckhi?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#CycloneOckhi</a> <a href="https://t.co/Zy5PKEi0fI">pic.twitter.com/Zy5PKEi0fI</a></p>
&mdash; ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/943098265045626880?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 19, 2017</a></blockquote>
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<p>Modi had previously visited Kanyakumari,&nbsp;<a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/cyclone-ockhi-over-180-people-rescued-off-lakshadweep-coast-26206">Lakshadweep</a> and <a href="http://www.wionews.com/videos/the-wrath-of-cyclone-ockhi-at-least-18-killed-in-tamil-nadu-kerala-7117">Tamil Nadu</a> to meet families affected and take note of the situation.&nbsp;</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">PM Narendra Modi meets cyclone affected fishermen in <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Kanyakumari?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Kanyakumari</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/CycloneOckhi?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#CycloneOckhi</a> <a href="https://t.co/ak41YOrj4j">pic.twitter.com/ak41YOrj4j</a></p>
&mdash; ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/943056253374181376?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 19, 2017</a></blockquote>
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<p>&nbsp;</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Prime Minister Narendra Modi met families of victims affected by <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/CycloneOckhi?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#CycloneOckhi</a> in <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Lakshadweep?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Lakshadweep</a>&#39;s Kavaratti <a href="https://t.co/Nbgb1Cne1N">pic.twitter.com/Nbgb1Cne1N</a></p>
&mdash; ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/943030486917455872?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 19, 2017</a></blockquote>
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<p>.</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="in">PM Narendra Modi reviews <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/CycloneOckhi?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#CycloneOckhi</a> relief operations in <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Kanyakumari?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Kanyakumari</a> . Tamil Nadu Governor Banwarilal Purohit and Chief Minister Edappadi K. Palaniswami also present <a href="https://t.co/dQk1x8N3H7">pic.twitter.com/dQk1x8N3H7</a></p>
&mdash; ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/943051382210170880?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 19, 2017</a></blockquote>
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<p>Cyclone Ockhi recently hit the <a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/watch-at-least-16-dead-several-missing-as-cyclone-ockhi-nears-lakshadweep-sri-lanka-25598">southern half of the country</a>, leaving a number of people dead and several missing.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Also&nbsp;read: <a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/30-died-due-to-cyclone-ockhi-report-25771">30 died due to Cyclone </a><a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/30-died-due-to-cyclone-ockhi-report-25771">Ockhi</a><a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/30-died-due-to-cyclone-ockhi-report-25771"> :</a><a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/30-died-due-to-cyclone-ockhi-report-25771"> Report</a></p>

<p>A search and rescue operation was launched by the Indian Navy, Air Force and Coast Guard.</p>

<p>As of December 14, 700 fishermen had been rescued. They included five Sri Lankan nationals.&nbsp;</p>


"Our rescue efforts will never fall short," Prime Minister Narendra Modi told the families of the people still missing because of Cyclone Ockhi. "Government of India is with you in every way, our rescue efforts will never fall short and we will help you in every way, I am here to assure you about this. We pray that all those missing, can return home before Christmas," he said. Modi was speaking in Poonthura, Kerala. Gov of India is with you in every way, our rescue efforts will never fall short & we will help you in every way, I am here to assure you about this. We pray that all those missing, can return home before Christmas: PM Modi in Kerala's Poonthura #CycloneOckhi pic.twitter.com/jzxU5aEOSP — ANI (@ANI) December 19, 2017 × PM Narendra Modi meets families affected by #CycloneOckhi in Kerala's Poonthura, says, 'govt will do everything possible to bring back the missing people' pic.twitter.com/oqR0Ix35FW — ANI (@ANI) December 19, 2017 × Modi also reviewed relief operations in Thiruvananthapuram along with Kerala Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan. PM Narendra Modi reviews relief operations in Kerala's Thiruvananthapuram. CM Pinarayi Vijayan also present, #CycloneOckhi pic.twitter.com/Zy5PKEi0fI — ANI (@ANI) December 19, 2017 × Modi had previously visited Kanyakumari, Lakshadweep and Tamil Nadu to meet families affected and take note of the situation. PM Narendra Modi meets cyclone affected fishermen in #Kanyakumari #CycloneOckhi pic.twitter.com/ak41YOrj4j — ANI (@ANI) December 19, 2017 × Prime Minister Narendra Modi met families of victims affected by #CycloneOckhi in #Lakshadweep's Kavaratti pic.twitter.com/Nbgb1Cne1N — ANI (@ANI) December 19, 2017 × . PM Narendra Modi reviews #CycloneOckhi relief operations in #Kanyakumari . Tamil Nadu Governor Banwarilal Purohit and Chief Minister Edappadi K. Palaniswami also present pic.twitter.com/dQk1x8N3H7 — ANI (@ANI) December 19, 2017 × Cyclone Ockhi recently hit the southern half of the country, leaving a number of people dead and several missing. Also read: 30 died due to Cyclone Ockhi : Report A search and rescue operation was launched by the Indian Navy, Air Force and Coast Guard. As of December 14, 700 fishermen had been rescued. They included five Sri Lankan nationals.

'Our rescue efforts will never fall short,' PM Modi tells Ockhi-affected families

<p>Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Tuesday arrived at Lakshadweep to chair a review meeting on the aftermath of Cyclone Ockhi.</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Lakshadweep: Prime Minister Narendra Modi chairs a review meeting on the aftermath of <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/CycloneOckhi?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#CycloneOckhi</a> <a href="https://t.co/gIVfqrJ2bg">pic.twitter.com/gIVfqrJ2bg</a></p>
&mdash; ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/942981818080411648?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 19, 2017</a></blockquote>
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<p>Modi arrived at Mangalore late last night and travelled to Lakshadweep early morning today.</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Mangalore (Karnataka): Prime Minister Narendra Modi leaves for Lakshadweep to visit <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/CycloneOckhi?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#CycloneOckhi</a> affected areas <a href="https://t.co/EKwdVHrn3I">pic.twitter.com/EKwdVHrn3I</a></p>
&mdash; ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/942947731537932288?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 19, 2017</a></blockquote>
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<p>Modi will be visiting Cyclone-hit Lakshadweep, Tamil Nadu, and Kerala and review the situation arising in the aftermath and the status of relief and rehabilitation operations.</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Earlier today, youngsters of Lakshadweep extended a warm welcome to PM <a href="https://twitter.com/narendramodi?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@narendramodi</a>. <a href="https://t.co/bVcVDcOU75">pic.twitter.com/bVcVDcOU75</a></p>
&mdash; PMO India (@PMOIndia) <a href="https://twitter.com/PMOIndia/status/942992129625808896?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 19, 2017</a></blockquote>
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<p>&nbsp;</p>


Modi will be visiting Cyclone-hit Lakshadweep, Tamil Nadu, and Kerala and review the situation arising in the aftermath and the status of relief and rehabilitation operations.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Tuesday arrived at Lakshadweep to chair a review meeting on the aftermath of Cyclone Ockhi. Lakshadweep: Prime Minister Narendra Modi chairs a review meeting on the aftermath of #CycloneOckhi pic.twitter.com/gIVfqrJ2bg — ANI (@ANI) December 19, 2017 × Modi arrived at Mangalore late last night and travelled to Lakshadweep early morning today. Mangalore (Karnataka): Prime Minister Narendra Modi leaves for Lakshadweep to visit #CycloneOckhi affected areas pic.twitter.com/EKwdVHrn3I — ANI (@ANI) December 19, 2017 × Modi will be visiting Cyclone-hit Lakshadweep, Tamil Nadu, and Kerala and review the situation arising in the aftermath and the status of relief and rehabilitation operations. Earlier today, youngsters of Lakshadweep extended a warm welcome to PM @narendramodi. pic.twitter.com/bVcVDcOU75 — PMO India (@PMOIndia) December 19, 2017 ×

Watch: Modi chairs review meeting at Cyclone-hit Lakshadweep

<p>According to a report released by the State Revenue Control Room, about 690 people have been rescued so far from the Ockhi&nbsp;cyclone in Tamil Nadu while 197 from Kerala.&nbsp;&nbsp;</p>

<p>The total number of people that died due to the natural disaster was reported to be 19 in Tamil Nadu while 11 in Kerala.</p>

<p>Further, the report indicated 96 missing and 63 hospitalised&nbsp;in Tamil Nadu.</p>

<p>About 74 houses were completely damaged while 1122 were partially damaged due to the Ockhi&nbsp;cyclone that hit the Indian states- Tamil Nadu and Kerala on November 30.&nbsp;</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">A total of 690 people have been rescued so far. Total number of deaths 19, 96 missing, 63 hospitalised, 74 houses fully damaged, 1122 housed partially damaged.: State state Revenue control room <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/TamilNadu?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#TamilNadu</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/CycloneOckhi?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#CycloneOckhi</a></p>
&mdash; ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/937314492358078464?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 3, 2017</a></blockquote>
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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Kerala: Rescue operation underway in Trivandrum. A total of 197 people have been rescued and 11 deaths have been reported so far in the city. <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/CycloneOckhi?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#CycloneOckhi</a> <a href="https://t.co/7XAN1QGsc4">pic.twitter.com/7XAN1QGsc4</a></p>
&mdash; ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/937320273346420736?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 3, 2017</a></blockquote>
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<p>Torrential rain pounded the southern districts of Tamil Nadu and Kerala after a deep depression in the Bay of Bengal transformed into &#39;Cyclone Ockhi&#39; on November 30.</p>

<p>Subsequently, the cyclone became a severe cyclonic storm on the next day, moving to the Arabian Sea.</p>


The total number of people that died due to the natural disaster was reported to be 19 in Tamil Nadu while 11 in Kerala

According to a report released by the State Revenue Control Room, about 690 people have been rescued so far from the Ockhi cyclone in Tamil Nadu while 197 from Kerala. The total number of people that died due to the natural disaster was reported to be 19 in Tamil Nadu while 11 in Kerala. Further, the report indicated 96 missing and 63 hospitalised in Tamil Nadu. About 74 houses were completely damaged while 1122 were partially damaged due to the Ockhi cyclone that hit the Indian states- Tamil Nadu and Kerala on November 30. A total of 690 people have been rescued so far. Total number of deaths 19, 96 missing, 63 hospitalised, 74 houses fully damaged, 1122 housed partially damaged.: State state Revenue control room #TamilNadu #CycloneOckhi — ANI (@ANI) December 3, 2017 × Kerala: Rescue operation underway in Trivandrum. A total of 197 people have been rescued and 11 deaths have been reported so far in the city. #CycloneOckhi pic.twitter.com/7XAN1QGsc4 — ANI (@ANI) December 3, 2017 × Torrential rain pounded the southern districts of Tamil Nadu and Kerala after a deep depression in the Bay of Bengal transformed into 'Cyclone Ockhi' on November 30. Subsequently, the cyclone became a severe cyclonic storm on the next day, moving to the Arabian Sea.

30 died due to Cyclone Ockhi : Report

<p>A tropical storm has killed at least seven people and left five fishermen missing in Sri Lanka, bringing down trees across main roads and on houses, officials said on Thursday, warning of landslides and flooding in severely hit areas.</p>

<p>Heavy winds hit the island&rsquo;s southern, western and south-central areas.</p>

<p>&ldquo;At the moment, there are reports of seven deaths, five missing, and more than 20,000 affected,&rdquo; said Pradeep Kodippili, spokesman for the state-run Disaster Management Centre.</p>

<p>The government declared a holiday for schools in the rain-hit areas on Thursday.</p>

<p>Floods and landslides killed more than 200 people each year in Sri Lanka. Flash floods and landslides in May killed at least 122 people.</p>

<p>The wettest time of the year in Sri Lanka&rsquo;s south is usually from May to September.</p>


A tropical storm has killed at least seven people and left five fishermen missing in Sri Lanka, bringing down trees across main roads and on houses, officials said on Thursday, warning of landslides and flooding in severely hit areas.

A tropical storm has killed at least seven people and left five fishermen missing in Sri Lanka, bringing down trees across main roads and on houses, officials said on Thursday, warning of landslides and flooding in severely hit areas. Heavy winds hit the island’s southern, western and south-central areas. “At the moment, there are reports of seven deaths, five missing, and more than 20,000 affected,” said Pradeep Kodippili, spokesman for the state-run Disaster Management Centre. The government declared a holiday for schools in the rain-hit areas on Thursday. Floods and landslides killed more than 200 people each year in Sri Lanka. Flash floods and landslides in May killed at least 122 people. The wettest time of the year in Sri Lanka’s south is usually from May to September.

Watch: Tropical storm hits Sri Lanka, at least 7 dead

<p><a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/arunachal-pradeshs-siang-river-turns-black-flows-as-the-blackened-brahmaputra-in-assam-25522">Watch: Locals enraged as Siang river in Arunachal Pradesh turns black</a></p>

<p><br />
Arunachal Pradesh was recently in the headlines when Siang river in Pasighat was reported to have turned black. WION has gathered that Ninong Ering, Congress MP from the east Constituency has already written to PM Modi seeking his intervention on the issue.</p>

<p><br />
<a href="http://www.wionews.com/photos/cyclone-ockhi-approaches-lakshadweep-south-india-on-alert-580">Cyclone Ockhi approaches Lakshadweep, south India on alert</a></p>

<p>A depression over the Bay of Bengal intensified into a cyclone on Thursday. The Indian weather department has warned cyclone Ockhi is approaching Lakshadeep. There have reports of heavy rainfall in most of the isolated places of south Tamil Nadu &amp; south Kerala, which will likely to continue for the next 24 hours.&nbsp;</p>

<p><a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/london-mayor-asks-trump-to-delete-far-right-retweets-and-apologise-to-british-people-25527">London Mayor asks Trump to delete far-right retweets and </a><a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/london-mayor-asks-trump-to-delete-far-right-retweets-and-apologise-to-british-people-25527">apologise</a><a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/london-mayor-asks-trump-to-delete-far-right-retweets-and-apologise-to-british-people-25527"> to British people</a></p>

<p>London Mayor Sadiq Khan on Thursday accused the United States president Donald Trump of using Twitter to promote a &#39;&#39;vile and extremist group&#39;&#39; after latter retweeted three inflammatory videos posted online by a British far-right group. &nbsp;</p>

<p><br />
<a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/padmavati-row-the-questions-a-parliamentary-panel-is-expected-to-ask-bhansali-prasoon-joshi-today-25509">Padmavati row: The questions a Parliamentary panel is expected to ask Bhansali, Prasoon Joshi today</a></p>

<p>Padmavati director Sanjay Leela Bhansali and CBFC chief Prasoon Joshi are expected to meet a Parliamentary panel today. There have been strong protests against Bhansali&#39;s movie Padmavati, which Rajput and Hindu groups say disrespects Rajput history.&nbsp;</p>

<p><br />
<a href="http://www.wionews.com/south-asia/pervez-musharraf-im-lashkars-biggest-supporter-they-like-me-too-25405">I am Lashkar&#39;s biggest supporter, I know they like me: Pervez Musharraf</a></p>

<p><br />
Pervez Musharraf has said that he is banned terror group Lashkar-e-Taiba&#39;s (LeT) &quot;biggest supporter&quot; and that he is aware that they &quot;like&quot; him too. In an interview with Pakistan&#39;s ARY News, Musharraf said that he is similarly appreciative of LeT co-founder and the man thought to be the mastermind of the 26/11 Mumbai terror attacks Hafiz Saeed.</p>

<p><br />
&nbsp;</p>


Watch: Locals enraged as Siang river in Arunachal Pradesh turns black Arunachal Pradesh was recently in the headlines when Siang river in Pasighat was reported to have turned black. WION has gathered that Ninong Ering, Congress MP from the east Constituency has already written to PM Modi seeking his intervention on the issue. Cyclone Ockhi approaches Lakshadweep, south India on alert A depression over the Bay of Bengal intensified into a cyclone on Thursday. The Indian weather department has warned cyclone Ockhi is approaching Lakshadeep. There have reports of heavy rainfall in most of the isolated places of south Tamil Nadu & south Kerala, which will likely to continue for the next 24 hours. London Mayor asks Trump to delete far-right retweets and apologise to British people London Mayor Sadiq Khan on Thursday accused the United States president Donald Trump of using Twitter to promote a ''vile and extremist group'' after latter retweeted three inflammatory videos posted online by a British far-right group. Padmavati row: The questions a Parliamentary panel is expected to ask Bhansali, Prasoon Joshi today Padmavati director Sanjay Leela Bhansali and CBFC chief Prasoon Joshi are expected to meet a Parliamentary panel today. There have been strong protests against Bhansali's movie Padmavati, which Rajput and Hindu groups say disrespects Rajput history. I am Lashkar's biggest supporter, I know they like me: Pervez Musharraf Pervez Musharraf has said that he is banned terror group Lashkar-e-Taiba's (LeT) "biggest supporter" and that he is aware that they "like" him too. In an interview with Pakistan's ARY News, Musharraf said that he is similarly appreciative of LeT co-founder and the man thought to be the mastermind of the 26/11 Mumbai terror attacks Hafiz Saeed.

WION Evening News Brief

<p dir="ltr">&quot;I knew Maldivians will be receiving us with a warm welcome, But it was beyond expectation, It was just unbelievable,&quot; said Ibrahim Manikufaanu, the leader of a group of 26 people from the India&rsquo;s Minicoy Island, locally known as Maliku, in the union territory of Lakshadweep. The island is just off India&rsquo;s southern state of Kerala.<br />
<br />
&quot;It felt like I was on my own island, surely we do belong to one bloodline,&quot; he told WION.<br />
<br />
India&rsquo;s Maliku is like a long lost cousin of Maldives, and actually was officially a part of Maldives centuries ago.<br />
<br />
This was the first time in decades a group of Maliku people visited Maldives. The trip was arranged by a non governmental organisation (NGO) called Ihavandhoo Masveringde Gulhun (IMAGU) from Ihavandhoo, an island of a northern atoll in Maldives. The trip celebrated the NGO&rsquo;s 20th anniversary.<br />
<br />
IMAGU&rsquo;s president Adnaan Mohamed told WION that they decided to invite the people of Maliku because it&rsquo;s a dream for Maldivians to meet Malikuns.&nbsp;<br />
<br />
&quot;People from other Atolls and Islands came to Ihavandhoo just to meet these people from Maliku,&quot; he said.<br />
<br />
The Malikuns were in Maldives for a week to celebrate Eid Al Adha with Maldivians. The special visitors made the holidays extra festive.<br />
<br />
<strong>Historic ties and separation&nbsp;</strong><br />
<br />
Minicoy is an Indian island, but is situated closer to Maldives than to any part of India. Minicoy was the northernmost atoll of the kingdom of Maldives before the mid 16th century. Since then, Maliku has fallen under Indian administrations.&nbsp;<br />
<br />
India held a plebiscite in Minicoy in 1956 to determine whether or not its people wished to join the Indian Union. The majority decided to join, and Maliku was incorporated into the Union Territory of Laccadive, renamed Lakshadweep in 1973.&nbsp;<br />
<br />
A 1970 Pakistan Times article alleged that Maldivian government officials harboured great resentment against India for not returning Minicoy Island, &quot;taken over&quot; long ago by an Indian Maharaja. Muslim inhabitants of the island were clamouring to join Maldives.<br />
<br />
Even the recent media reports says Islamabad supports Minicoy Island as being part of the Maldives, and rejected India&rsquo;s territorial claim. But both India and the Maldives seems to ignore these media reports from Pakistan press.&nbsp;<br />
<br />
In December 1976, India and Maldives signed a maritime boundary treaty under, which Minicoy was placed on the Indian side of the boundary.<br />
<br />
However, in a public speech on Maldivian independence day, 1982, the Minister of Atolls Abdulla Hameed, also the half-brother of President Maumoon Abdul Gayoom, claimed that Minicoy was a part of Maldives.<br />
<br />
This ambiguous statement was interpreted as an official claim over the island, and caused a minor diplomatic crisis between India and Maldives.<br />
<br />
President Gayoom had to clarify that Maldives did not intend to make a political claim over the island, and Hameed&#39;s speech only meant to highlight the linguistic, cultural, and religious ties between Maldives and Minicoy.&nbsp;<br />
<br />
In 2015, at the official function celebrating the 50th anniversary of Maldives&rsquo; independence, President Yamin Abdul Gayoom described losing Maliku as one of the dark experiences in Maldives&rsquo; history.<br />
<br />
&quot;The long history of the Maldives shows that Maliku or Minicoy was once part of the Maldives,&quot; he said. Whereas roughly the same comment ignited a diplomatic row in the 80s, this time absolutely nothing happened.<br />
<br />
<strong>Ethnographic Similarities</strong><br />
<br />
The culture of Minicoy Island is very different from the other Indian islands of Lakshadweep. Even today, it is believed that the language, religion, ethnicity and culture of Maliku people closely resembles that of Maldives.&nbsp;<br />
<br />
Ashraf Ali, the president of the Dhivehi Bahuge Academy of Maldives (an institution that protects, promotes and develops Dhivehi language), told WION that the Maldivian people are proud that their language and way of life is connected to a culturally rich country like India.<br />
<br />
&quot;The language they use, Mahal bas, is just a dialect of Dhivehi Bas (a Maldivian language). Their culture, eating habits, language are very similar to Maldivians,&quot; he said.<br />
<br />
Ali said Indian institutions devoted to preserving Mahal Bas and Maldives provide language trainings to Manicoys.<br />
<br />
IMAGU President Mohamed said his Maldivian hosts and their Indian guests have noticed the similarities between the two during the recent trip.&nbsp;&quot;Maldivians have this bond with the people of Maliku. We did not feel like they are from some other country. Other than Maldivians they are the only people who have Maldivian language as their mother tongue.&quot;&nbsp;<br />
<br />
Ibrahim Manikufaanu, who is devoted to maintaining the culture, traditions and language of Minicoy Island, said Minicoy will always resemble Maldives. &quot;Maldivian customs and traditions are still very visible in Maliku. We are from one origin, one bloodline&quot; he said.<br />
<br />
<strong>Connectivity</strong><br />
<br />
Though the nearest island to India&rsquo;s Minicoy is the Maldivian island of Thuraanuku, the Indian government has forbidden the direct travel between the two islands since 1956, despite their geographic proximity and ethnographic similarities. A special permit from the Indian government is still needed to enter Minicoy.&nbsp;<br />
<br />
&quot;It was not easy to travel between Maliku and Maldives. We were not allowed to travel directly. We rarely meet Maldivians,&quot; Manikufaanu said.<br />
Difficulty visiting Maldives did not stop Minicoys from giving up Maldivian customs and traditions. Maldivian media connected Minicoys to Maldives ever since they started getting the radio signal of the Voice of Maldives, the Maldives&rsquo; state broadcaster&rsquo;s station. Manikufaanu says that over the years, Maldivian media played a huge role in Minicoy to keep Maldives alive in their heart.&nbsp;<br />
<br />
&quot;Now Maliku people have access to public service broadcaster, as well as some private broadcasters, and they read the online news websites of Maldives&quot; he said.&nbsp;<br />
<br />
To make it easier to travel between Maliku and Maldives, two months ago a travel agency called Under Water Travel and Tours introduced a tour package which connects the two islands. &quot;We need a passport copy of the passenger, we get the permits from the authorities. We arrange everything,&quot; said director of Under Water Travel and Tours, Mohamed Imthiyaaz, to WION.&nbsp;<br />
<br />
Before 1956, people of Minicoy and people from Maldives&rsquo; northern atolls used to travel often across the islands. Even today, both<br />
Maldivians and Malikun wish to travel directly between the islands. But since 1956, the journey of few hours has become long; it takes 12 hours to reach Cochin city of the Indian state of Kerela in a ferry, and it&rsquo;s around a two hour flight to reach Ibrahim Nasir International Airport of Maldives &mdash;&nbsp;from there it will take more hours to reach the northern atolls, depending on the travel arrangements. &nbsp;<br />
<br />
However Imthiyaaz said they are trying to make direct travel possible from Maldives to Maliku in a near future.<br />
<br />
&quot;We are negotiating with both Maldivian and Indian government. We are hoping this happens soon,&quot; he said.&nbsp;<br />
<br />
This is surely long-awaited good news for both Maldivians and Minocoys.<br />
Hopefully soon the cultural cousins won&rsquo;t need to wait for Eid to be together again. &nbsp;<br />
<br />
(WION)</p>


India?s Maliku is like a long lost cousin of Maldives and actually was officially a part of Maldives centuries ago

"I knew Maldivians will be receiving us with a warm welcome, But it was beyond expectation, It was just unbelievable," said Ibrahim Manikufaanu, the leader of a group of 26 people from the India’s Minicoy Island, locally known as Maliku, in the union territory of Lakshadweep. The island is just off India’s southern state of Kerala. "It felt like I was on my own island, surely we do belong to one bloodline," he told WION. India’s Maliku is like a long lost cousin of Maldives, and actually was officially a part of Maldives centuries ago. This was the first time in decades a group of Maliku people visited Maldives. The trip was arranged by a non governmental organisation (NGO) called Ihavandhoo Masveringde Gulhun (IMAGU) from Ihavandhoo, an island of a northern atoll in Maldives. The trip celebrated the NGO’s 20th anniversary. IMAGU’s president Adnaan Mohamed told WION that they decided to invite the people of Maliku because it’s a dream for Maldivians to meet Malikuns. "People from other Atolls and Islands came to Ihavandhoo just to meet these people from Maliku," he said. The Malikuns were in Maldives for a week to celebrate Eid Al Adha with Maldivians. The special visitors made the holidays extra festive. Historic ties and separation Minicoy is an Indian island, but is situated closer to Maldives than to any part of India. Minicoy was the northernmost atoll of the kingdom of Maldives before the mid 16th century. Since then, Maliku has fallen under Indian administrations. India held a plebiscite in Minicoy in 1956 to determine whether or not its people wished to join the Indian Union. The majority decided to join, and Maliku was incorporated into the Union Territory of Laccadive, renamed Lakshadweep in 1973. A 1970 Pakistan Times article alleged that Maldivian government officials harboured great resentment against India for not returning Minicoy Island, "taken over" long ago by an Indian Maharaja. Muslim inhabitants of the island were clamouring to join Maldives. Even the recent media reports says Islamabad supports Minicoy Island as being part of the Maldives, and rejected India’s territorial claim. But both India and the Maldives seems to ignore these media reports from Pakistan press. In December 1976, India and Maldives signed a maritime boundary treaty under, which Minicoy was placed on the Indian side of the boundary. However, in a public speech on Maldivian independence day, 1982, the Minister of Atolls Abdulla Hameed, also the half-brother of President Maumoon Abdul Gayoom, claimed that Minicoy was a part of Maldives. This ambiguous statement was interpreted as an official claim over the island, and caused a minor diplomatic crisis between India and Maldives. President Gayoom had to clarify that Maldives did not intend to make a political claim over the island, and Hameed's speech only meant to highlight the linguistic, cultural, and religious ties between Maldives and Minicoy. In 2015, at the official function celebrating the 50th anniversary of Maldives’ independence, President Yamin Abdul Gayoom described losing Maliku as one of the dark experiences in Maldives’ history. "The long history of the Maldives shows that Maliku or Minicoy was once part of the Maldives," he said. Whereas roughly the same comment ignited a diplomatic row in the 80s, this time absolutely nothing happened. Ethnographic Similarities The culture of Minicoy Island is very different from the other Indian islands of Lakshadweep. Even today, it is believed that the language, religion, ethnicity and culture of Maliku people closely resembles that of Maldives. Ashraf Ali, the president of the Dhivehi Bahuge Academy of Maldives (an institution that protects, promotes and develops Dhivehi language), told WION that the Maldivian people are proud that their language and way of life is connected to a culturally rich country like India. "The language they use, Mahal bas, is just a dialect of Dhivehi Bas (a Maldivian language). Their culture, eating habits, language are very similar to Maldivians," he said. Ali said Indian institutions devoted to preserving Mahal Bas and Maldives provide language trainings to Manicoys. IMAGU President Mohamed said his Maldivian hosts and their Indian guests have noticed the similarities between the two during the recent trip. "Maldivians have this bond with the people of Maliku. We did not feel like they are from some other country. Other than Maldivians they are the only people who have Maldivian language as their mother tongue." Ibrahim Manikufaanu, who is devoted to maintaining the culture, traditions and language of Minicoy Island, said Minicoy will always resemble Maldives. "Maldivian customs and traditions are still very visible in Maliku. We are from one origin, one bloodline" he said. Connectivity Though the nearest island to India’s Minicoy is the Maldivian island of Thuraanuku, the Indian government has forbidden the direct travel between the two islands since 1956, despite their geographic proximity and ethnographic similarities. A special permit from the Indian government is still needed to enter Minicoy. "It was not easy to travel between Maliku and Maldives. We were not allowed to travel directly. We rarely meet Maldivians," Manikufaanu said. Difficulty visiting Maldives did not stop Minicoys from giving up Maldivian customs and traditions. Maldivian media connected Minicoys to Maldives ever since they started getting the radio signal of the Voice of Maldives, the Maldives’ state broadcaster’s station. Manikufaanu says that over the years, Maldivian media played a huge role in Minicoy to keep Maldives alive in their heart. "Now Maliku people have access to public service broadcaster, as well as some private broadcasters, and they read the online news websites of Maldives" he said. To make it easier to travel between Maliku and Maldives, two months ago a travel agency called Under Water Travel and Tours introduced a tour package which connects the two islands. "We need a passport copy of the passenger, we get the permits from the authorities. We arrange everything," said director of Under Water Travel and Tours, Mohamed Imthiyaaz, to WION. Before 1956, people of Minicoy and people from Maldives’ northern atolls used to travel often across the islands. Even today, both Maldivians and Malikun wish to travel directly between the islands. But since 1956, the journey of few hours has become long; it takes 12 hours to reach Cochin city of the Indian state of Kerela in a ferry, and it’s around a two hour flight to reach Ibrahim Nasir International Airport of Maldives — from there it will take more hours to reach the northern atolls, depending on the travel arrangements. However Imthiyaaz said they are trying to make direct travel possible from Maldives to Maliku in a near future. "We are negotiating with both Maldivian and Indian government. We are hoping this happens soon," he said. This is surely long-awaited good news for both Maldivians and Minocoys. Hopefully soon the cultural cousins won’t need to wait for Eid to be together again. (WION)

Maldivians and Indians reunite to celebrate joint heritage

lakshadweep

Lakshadweep, News on Lakshadweep, stories on Lakshadweep, articles on Lakshadweep, Lakshadweep stories at Wion, Lakshadweep news, Lakshadweep latest news