Israel has stepped up to join forces with India to bolster tourism in Lakshadweep. This partnership includes a desalination program, which is set to launch on January 9. The Israeli Embassy in India announced this initiative on January 8 via their ‘X’ platform, expressing readiness to commence work on the project the very next day. This move is not just a significant stride towards enhancing Lakshadweep’s tourism but also a major milestone for the island’s overall development. Amidst the tensions, this collaboration between India and Israel shines as a beacon of progress and growth for Lakshadweep.
PM Modi in Lakshadweep
Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s recent visit to Lakshadweep has ignited a renewed interest in the island as a tourist hotspot. Adding to this allure, the Israeli embassy in India has showcased the island’s untouched beaches and underwater wonders through shared pictures, further emphasizing its potential as a tourist paradise. Amidst the ongoing diplomatic tensions between India and the Maldives, Lakshadweep has emerged in the spotlight as a potential alternative tourist destination.
Israel’s Supportive Stance
In the midst of an ongoing dispute between Lakshadweep and the Maldives, Israel has stepped forward to join hands with India in an effort to enhance tourism in Lakshadweep. This collaboration includes a desalination program, which is slated to kick off on January 9.
In light of this controversy, Israel has chosen to back India’s initiatives. The Israeli embassy in India has shared images of Lakshadweep’s untouched beaches and underwater wonders, underscoring the island’s potential as a tourist attraction.
The desalination program forms a crucial part of this joint venture. Last year, the Indian government requested Israel to launch a desalination program in Lakshadweep. Desalination involves the removal of salts and minerals from seawater. Israel has affirmed its readiness to commence work on this project.
Why Lakshadweep needs desalination program?
Desalination Israel
Desalination is the technique of purifying seawater by removing salts and minerals, making it fit for human use, irrigation, or industrial purposes. The beginning of this program by Israel for Lakshdweep may boost it’s development and ultimate tourism. The two primary methods are Reverse Osmosis (RO), where seawater is pressurized through a membrane that filters out salts and minerals, and Thermal Desalination, which replicates the natural water cycle by heating seawater to produce steam, which is then condensed into fresh water. These methods provide a consistent supply of fresh water, a vital resource for any thriving community or industry. However, desalination is energy-intensive and can lead to environmental concerns, such as the production of brine, a by-product of the process.
Israel-India relationship
Israel – India relationship
India and Israel have been nurturing a multifaceted relationship since the 1990s, despite India’s initial opposition to the UN Partition Plan for Palestine in 1947. The ties, which were officially established in 1992, have grown to encompass economic, military, and political aspects. Israel has emerged as a key defense ally for India, with strategic cooperation extending to joint military training and intelligence-sharing. Economically, bilateral trade has flourished, reaching around US$6.3 billion in 2019, with ongoing negotiations for a comprehensive free-trade agreement.
The countries share a warm political relationship, celebrating 30 years of full diplomatic ties in 2022-23. Under Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s leadership, India’s relationship with Israel has deepened, marking a significant stride towards mutual growth and development.
Underlying Dispute
INDIA OUT campaigning in Maldives
The tension between Lakshadweep and the Maldives has been simmering for a while. The situation intensified when Maldivian ministers made derogatory comments about Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi following his visit to Lakshadweep. These remarks were perceived as an attempt to belittle India’s endeavors to promote Lakshadweep as a tourist hotspot.
Numerous celebrities have encouraged people to visit domestic tourist spots like Lakshadweep instead of traveling to the Maldives. It is anticipated that the desalination program, coupled with the promotion of Lakshadweep’s natural splendor, will draw more tourists to the island.
Significant stride
The collaboration between India and Israel to enhance tourism in Lakshadweep, including a desalination program, marks a significant stride towards the island’s development. Amidst diplomatic tensions, this partnership shines as a beacon of progress. The initiative, coupled with Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s visit and the promotion of Lakshadweep’s natural beauty, has spotlighted the island as a potential tourist paradise. The ongoing dispute with the Maldives has further emphasized Lakshadweep’s appeal. This venture is expected to attract more tourists, contributing to the island’s growth and prosperity.
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