Kochi-Lakshadweep islands submarine optical fiber connection project

05.01.2024

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Why in the news? 

Recently, the Prime Minister of India in Kavaratti, Lakshadweep , inaugurated Kochi-Lakshadweep islands submarine optical fiber connection (KLI-SOFC) project.

About Kochi-Lakshadweep islands submarine optical fiber connection project:

• It is the submarine cable connectivity project from Mainland (Kochi) to eleven Lakshadweep Islands namely, Kavaratti, Agatti, Amini, Kadmat, Chetlet, Kalpeni, Minicoy, Androth, Kiltan, Bangaram and Bitra has been extended.
• The project is funded by Universal Services Obligation Fund (USOF), Department of Telecommunication.
• Bharat Sanchar Nigam Limited (BSNL) was the Project Executing Agency and the work was awarded to M/s NEC Corporation India Pvt Ltd through Global Open Tendering process.
• The major activities related to the project include Marine Route Survey, Submarine Cable laying, Civil Construction of CLS stations, Installation, Testing and Commissioning of End Terminals (SLTE).

Significance of the project

• The KLI-SOFC project will lead to an increase in internet speed unlocking new possibilities & opportunities.
• For the first time since independence, Lakshadweep will be connected through Submarine Optic Fibre Cable.
• The dedicated submarine OFC will ensure a paradigm shift in communication infrastructure in the Lakshadweep islands, enabling faster and more reliable internet services, telemedicine, e-governance, educational initiatives, digital banking, digital currency usage, digital literacy etc. 

About Lakshadweep

• Lakshadweep is a tropical archipelago of 36 atolls and coral reefs in the Laccadive Sea, 280 km to 480 km off the coast of Kerala. 11 are inhabited.
• It is known for its exotic and sun-kissed beaches and lush green landscape.
• It comprises 12 atolls, three reefs, five submerged banks and ten inhabited islands.
• Lakshadweep means "one lakh islands" in Malayalam, the official as well as the widely spoken native language in the territory. Fishing is the most important industry.
• The islands form the smallest union territory of India and their total surface area is just 32 km square.
• Kavaratti serves as the capital of the Union Territory and the region comes under the jurisdiction of Kerala High Court. It is a uni-district Union Territory.
• The principal languages of Lakshadweep are Malayalam, Jeseri (Dweep Bhasha) and Mahl.
• These islands were earlier known as Laccadive, Minicoy, and Amindivi Islands.
• The name Lakshadweep was adopted on 1st November 1973.

                                                                   Source:PIB