India

Prime Minister insists tourism-centric ecosystem

On the meeting held for the review of the progress of comprehensive development of the Andaman-Nicobar and Lakshadweep islands on Saturday, 1st June 2018, Prime Minister Narendra Modi insisted an integrated tourism-centric ecosystem in the areas selected for tourism development.

An Islands Development Agency has been formed for the comprehensive development of 26 islands.

He also urged to expedite the activities for the energy self-sufficiency in the islands that could be based on solar energy.

A presentation was also made by The National Institution for Transforming India (NITI Aayogon) depicting the programme for holistic development in the region, which include key infrastructure projects, digital connectivity, green energy, waste management, promotion of fisheries and tourism-based projects.

The initiatives taken by Lakshadweep on cleanliness of the islands have received appreciation from the PM. Development of basic infrastructure in both Andaman and Nicobar islands and in Lakshadweep has been discussed. He also asked the officials to explore the possibility of seaweed cultivation and other activities which would contribute to the development of agriculture in the area.

Home Minister Rajnath Singh, the Lt. Governors of Andaman and Nicobar Island and Lakshadweep, CEO NITI Aayog and senior officials from the Union Government have attended the meeting.