India to build naval bases in Agatti and Minicoy Islands in Lakshadweep

India is planning to build naval bases Agatti and Minicoy Islands in Lakshadweep. The move is aimed at expanding the country's naval footprints following Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s visit to Lakshadweep.

According to a Hindustan Times reports, Defence Minister Rajnath Singh is expected to be on board INS Vikramaditya and INS Vikrant task forces to inaugurate a naval base in Minicoy in the first week of March.

The Indian Navy is scheduled to hold the first phase of Combined Commanders Conference from March 6 to 7. 

The government is also planning a major makeover of Lakshadweep islands to boost tourism.

As the first step toward bringing more tourists to the islands, the administration is improving the connectivity.

Fly19 and Spice Jet have already got the necessary clearances for flight operations to Agatti Island.

As more airlines line up to start operations, the Agatti Island airport is going for a major expansion.

Also watch: Qatar frees 8 Indian Navy veterans held on spying charges
 

According to an official, construction major L&T has been given the contract for the Rs 4,500 crore expansion works where the runway will be extended to 2,800 meters.

Apart from Agatti, another Greenfield airport will be coming up at Minicoy Island