Lakshadweep

Overview

Lakshadweep is a group of coral (atoll) islands in the Arabian Sea, with its capital at Kavaratti. The Andaman and Nicobar Islands in the Bay of Bengal, by contrast, are volcanic and tectonic in origin.

The Nine Degree Channel separates Minicoy from the rest of Lakshadweep, and the Maldives lie about 70 nautical miles from Minicoy. As a Union Territory, the President can make regulations for it under Article 240. Along with Mizoram it has the highest share of Scheduled Tribes (over 90%), and it is one of India's coral reef areas.

Geography and key facts

• Coral atolls in the Arabian Sea; capital Kavaratti
• Nine Degree Channel: Minicoy and the rest of Lakshadweep
• Article 240: President's regulations for the UT
• ST share over 90% of the population

Why it matters for UPSC

Asked on channels separating island pairs (2014), coral reefs, and in Union Territory questions (2004). The island types (coral vs volcanic) are a common Prelims contrast.