Lakshadweep Eyes Global Tourism Limelight with Major Development Projects

Lakshadweep Eyes Global Tourism Limelight with Major Development Projects

By Author

Published on February 11, 2024

In a significant move to position Lakshadweep on the global tourism map, the island administration has announced a series of ambitious projects aimed at unlocking the archipelago's untapped tourism potential. With an eye on enhancing connectivity as a foundational step, the administration has welcomed the entry of major airlines, including Fly19 and Spice Jet, with Indigo also showing interest in starting operations to Agatti Island.

Expanding Horizons with Enhanced Connectivity

The connectivity boost is not just about flights; the Agatti Island airport is set to undergo a comprehensive expansion. With a contract awarded to construction giant L&T, the airport's runway will be extended to 2,800 meters, supporting larger aircraft and increasing tourist influx. Furthermore, a new Greenfield airport is on the cards for Minicoy Island, strategically located near the Maldives, promising to open new routes and opportunities for the island's tourism sector.

Upscaling Accommodation with Luxury Resorts

To complement the improved connectivity, the Tata Group has proposed the construction of three major Taj resorts on Suheli, Minicoy, and Kadmat islands. With plans for over 100 rooms in Lagoon Villas and land villas—marking the first of their kind in India—these developments are set to redefine luxury accommodation in the region. The projects have received the green light after thorough Environmental Impact Assessments, ensuring sustainable development that respects the fragile island ecosystem.

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Balancing Development with Environmental Sustainability

Marine Biologist K K Idrees Babu emphasized the stringent guidelines underpinning these projects, aiming to avoid the ecological missteps observed in other island destinations like the Maldives. The focus is on eco-friendly construction and operations that preserve the islands' natural beauty while offering world-class tourism experiences.

A Community-Centric Approach to Tourism

Despite the enthusiasm for the economic benefits these projects are expected to bring, there's a call for greater community involvement in the decision-making process. Local leaders and the current MP of Lakshadweep have voiced concerns about the lack of consultation with the island's residents, stressing the importance of preserving the local culture and ensuring sustainable tourism practices that align with the community's values.

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Future Prospects: Smart Cities and Eco-Friendly Infrastructure

Beyond airport expansions and luxury resorts, the administration is planning a smart city project and two city centers with five-star hotels in Agatti and Kavaratti. A novel 'Tent City' concept is also being introduced, offering flexible, eco-conscious accommodation options along the coastline.

As Lakshadweep gears up for a transformative phase, these initiatives are designed to not only boost the local economy but also establish the islands as a premier destination for tourists seeking an alternative to the Maldives. This comes at a time when diplomatic tensions have highlighted the need for India to develop its own high-end tourism destinations, leveraging its natural beauty and cultural heritage.


SpiceJet Launches Paperless Boarding at Shillong Airport

SpiceJet Launches Paperless Boarding at Shillong Airport

By Hariharan U

Published on August 27, 2025

SpiceJet has taken a pioneering step towards digital innovation and eco-friendly travel by becoming the first airline in India to roll out paperless boarding at Shillong Airport. Passengers checking in at the airport counter will now receive their boarding passes directly on WhatsApp, eliminating the need for printed copies.

This new feature aims to make the check-in process faster, greener, and more seamless. By reducing reliance on paper, the initiative also aligns with SpiceJet’s commitment to sustainability.

Despite the availability of web check-in and Digi Yatra, Indian airports still printed more than 9 million boarding passes in June 2025, resulting in nearly 6 tonnes of carbon emissions. SpiceJet’s move directly addresses this avoidable footprint, setting a new standard for environmentally conscious aviation practices.

The paperless boarding feature is powered by SpiceJet’s indigenously developed Web Departure Control System (WEBDCS)- a browser-based platform that enables airport staff to issue:

Digital boarding passes via WhatsApp or email

Baggage tags via SMS

This system works on tablets as well as standard airport computers, ensuring smooth operations while enhancing efficiency.

Speaking on the milestone, GP Gupta, Chief Strategy Officer, SpiceJet, said, “At SpiceJet, we are constantly working to enhance the travel experience for our passengers while embracing sustainability. The introduction of paperless boarding at Shillong Airport is a significant step in that direction. We look forward to expanding this convenience-driven initiative across more airports in the near future”.

SpiceJet has confirmed plans to extend the WhatsApp-based paperless boarding experience to other domestic airports in the coming months, furthering its position as a leader in sustainable and passenger-centric air travel.

About SpiceJet:

SpiceJet is India’s favourite airline, making flying affordable for millions of Indians. An IATA-IOSA certified carrier, it operates a fleet of Boeing 737s and Q-400s and is among the country’s largest regional players, operating multiple daily flights under UDAN – the Regional Connectivity Scheme. A majority of its fleet features SpiceMax, India’s most spacious economy-class seating.


Akasa Air Adds Kozhikode as 30th Destination, Strengthens Kerala Network

Akasa Air Adds Kozhikode as 30th Destination, Strengthens Kerala Network

By Manu Vardhan Kannan

Published on August 25, 2025

Akasa Air, India’s fastest-growing airline, has added Kozhikode (Calicut) to its network as its 30th destination and 24th domestic city in just under three years of operations. Starting 1 October 2025, the airline will operate daily direct flights between Mumbai and Kozhikode, strengthening connectivity between India’s financial capital and Kerala’s Malabar coast.

The new addition builds on Akasa Air’s existing services to Kochi and further expands its footprint in Kerala. Kozhikode, known for its cultural heritage, coastal charm, and active trade, is a hub for both leisure and business travellers. The daily service is expected to boost tourism and trade opportunities between Kerala and metropolitan centres.

Praveen Iyer, Co-Founder and Chief Commercial Officer, Akasa Air, said: “We are delighted to add Kozhikode as the 30th destination on our network, marking a milestone in Akasa Air’s growth story, and expanding our connectivity in Kerala. The city’s unique cultural character and thriving economy, combined with Kerala’s renewed emphasis on tourism and infrastructure, make it an instrumental addition to our network. Our daily Mumbai–Kozhikode service will not only enhance connectivity between India’s commercial capital and the Malabar coast but also act as a catalyst for trade, tourism, and economic opportunities.”

Within just 37 months of commencing operations, Akasa Air has grown to 30 destinations, making it the fastest-growing airline in Indian civil aviation history. Its strategy is centred on affordable and reliable connectivity while steadily expanding its reach.

The airline continues to enhance customer experience with modern aircraft offering extra legroom, USB charging ports, and Café Akasa’s festive and healthy menus. Akasa has also introduced industry-first innovations such as QuietFlights, SkyScore by Akasa, SkyLights, and a pet travel policy, along with products like Akasa GetEarly and Akasa Holidays, reflecting its focus on passenger comfort and convenience.


Jammu & Kashmir Charts Bold Tourism Revival with ₹5,600-Crore Expansion Plan

Jammu & Kashmir Charts Bold Tourism Revival with ₹5,600-Crore Expansion Plan

By Hariharan U

Published on August 17, 2025

Jammu & Kashmir’s tourism sector is experiencing a strong comeback, with more than 4 lakh devotees visiting the holy Amarnath shrine this season, a clear sign of the region’s renewed appeal after challenging years.

Speaking at the FAITH Conclave 2025, Chief Minister Omar Abdullah highlighted that J&K offers two distinct travel experiences: pilgrimage tourism in Jammu and leisure tourism in Kashmir. He stressed that both require sustained investment and innovation to ensure visitors not only arrive once but return for more.

“My success will not be measured by how many tourists come for the first time, but by how many choose to come back. For that, the quality of their experience is key,” Abdullah said.

To address crowding at popular spots and open fresh opportunities, the J&K Government, in partnership with the Government of India, has launched SPREAD, a ₹5,600-crore transformative project supported by multilateral funding, with hopeful participation from the World Bank. The initiative will develop nine purpose-built, sustainable tourism destinations across Jammu and Kashmir, backed by improved infrastructure, better connectivity, and modern amenities.

Adventure tourism is also on the agenda, with Gulmarg set for upgraded winter sports facilities in collaboration with private partners, aiming to meet global skiing and adventure standards. Trekking routes will reopen following comprehensive security reviews to ensure visitor safety.

The plan extends beyond leisure and adventure to untapped segments like pilgrimage and border tourism in Jammu—going beyond the famous Mata Vaishnodevi shrine to include vibrant experiences such as the Suchetgarh border tourism circuit.

Praising the region’s timeless charm, Abdullah remarked,“Kashmir was heaven on earth long before Kerala was God’s own country. The road ahead is now filled with light, and with the support of industry partners and associations like FAITH, we will continue to grow stronger.”

From the world’s tallest arched railway bridge to snow-covered ski slopes, rich spiritual heritage, and pristine landscapes, Jammu & Kashmir is positioning itself as a year-round destination. The government’s approach blends infrastructure development with sustainable practices, keeping hope, optimism, and faith at the heart of its tourism vision.

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