Why in NEWS
The Government of India has initiated the acquisition of Bitra Island, the smallest inhabited island in Lakshadweep, for establishing a defence installation due to its strategic location in the Arabian Sea.
Key Terms / Concepts
| Term | Explanation |
|---|---|
| Bitra Island | A tiny inhabited island in Lakshadweep, part of the Aminidivi subgroup. |
| Strategic Location | Located near key international shipping lanes, increasing its defence value. |
| INS Dweeprakshak | Indian Navy base at Kavaratti, Lakshadweep. |
| INS Jatayu | Naval base at Minicoy, Lakshadweep, part of India’s coastal security grid. |
About Bitra Island
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Status | Smallest inhabited island in Lakshadweep |
| Coordinates | 11°36′N, 72°11′E |
| Distance from Kochi | 483 km (261 nautical miles) |
| Size | 0.57 km in length; 0.28 km width |
| Lagoon Area | 45.61 sq km, rich in marine life |
| Climate | Similar to Kerala; hot season from March to May (25°C to 35°C) |
| Annual Rainfall | Around 1600 mm |
| Population (2011) | 271 people, mostly fishing and coconut cultivation |
| Strategic Role | Close to shipping routes; planned defence post to support INS Dweeprakshak (Kavaratti) and INS Jatayu (Minicoy) |
In a nutshell
Memory code: “Bitra–Base–Buffer”
Bitra Island will serve as a new defence base, adding a buffer point in Lakshadweep’s strategic defence line alongside Kavaratti and Minicoy.
Prelims Practice Questions
- Bitra Island is part of which subgroup of Lakshadweep?
A. Laccadive
B. Minicoy
C. Aminidivi
D. Agatti - The primary occupation of Bitra’s residents is:
A. Tourism
B. Salt mining
C. Fishing and coconut cultivation
D. Coral extraction - Which Indian Naval bases are located in Lakshadweep?
A. INS Shivaji and INS Vajrakosh
B. INS Viraat and INS Vikrant
C. INS Dweeprakshak and INS Jatayu
D. INS Kadamba and INS Hansa
Answers – Prelims
| Ques | Ans | Explanation |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | C | Bitra is part of the Aminidivi subgroup. |
| 2 | C | Majority rely on fishing and coconut farming. |
| 3 | C | INS Dweeprakshak (Kavaratti) and INS Jatayu (Minicoy) are naval bases in Lakshadweep. |
