INDIA-MALDIVES DIPLOMATIC SPAT: ISRAEL’S INVOLVEMENT

Why in the News?

  • Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) summons Maldivian envoy over disrespectful remarks by three Deputy Ministers.
  • Diplomatic dialogue initiated, but no official statement released on the discussion with Maldivian envoy.

Israeli Embassy’s Intervention: 

  • Israel engages amid controversy, shares Lakshadweep photos during diplomatic talks. Embassy applauds tourism, responding to Maldives’ Deputy Minister’s deleted post.
About Lakshadweep Island

Source: EJ Atlas

·   Lakshadweep, India’s smallest Union Territory, comprises 36 islands with an area of 32 sq km.Known for sun-kissed beaches and lush greenery, its name means ‘a hundred thousand islands.’

·   Formed a union territory in 1956, it includes 12 atolls, three reefs, and five submerged banks.

·   Capital is Kavaratti, and notable flora includes coconut palms, banyans, and tropical almonds.

·   Rich marine life includes sharks, bonitos, turtles, and diverse water birds like herons and teals.