If you are thinking of a beach holiday and exploring the islands, you need not plan a foreign trip any more. You could go exploring the tropical islands in Lakshadweep, off India's west coast. The government has approved a holistic development plan for Lakshadweep, which will open 12 islands for tourism. Earlier off the limits for the public, these islands will be opened to promote niche tourism in the area, thus, turning it into a new island destination soon. There was a Restricted Area Permit, which was required to visit these islands. This now stands relaxed.

Director of tourism in Lakshadweep Balram Meena was quoted as saying by TOI, "Since Lakshadweep is an ecologically sensitive area, great care has been taken in planning the measures. Lakshadweep has immense potential for growth, but we have observed that over the years, tourist influx has somewhat stagnated. Current effort is not only to ramp up tourism, but to also open up the island cluster to public, private and public-private partnership mode of investments to create more employment for Lakshadweep islanders." The islands of Minicoy, Bangaram, Suheli, Cherium, Tinnakara, Kalpeni, Kadmat, Agatti, Chetlat and Bitra will be opened for development. Among these, the nearest accessible island is Kalpeni, which is around 280 kilometres away from Kochi.

The tourism industry, Niti Aayog and Home Ministry have decided to relax the Restricted Area Permit and even devised ways to execute eco-friendly tourism plans. Scuba diving centres and resort ideas supporting eco-tourism have been invited. The government is expecting an investment of over Rs 300 crore from the private sector. In addition, there will be an emphasis on boosting employment for the local people. The government plans to improve air, road and web connectivity, jetty travel, good quality drinking water and ensuring regular power supply. Among other developments, Tuna fishing will also be promoted. So very soon, Lakshadweep can turn into a hidden paradise, all set to be explored by ardent beach lovers. Get your planners out, already!

(The above story first appeared on LatestLY on Jul 02, 2018 09:21 AM IST. For more news and updates on politics, world, sports, entertainment and lifestyle, log on to our website latestly.com).