NEWS – The Lakshadweep administration is considering acquiring Bitra Island for defence and strategic purposes.

HIGHLIGHTS

• A Government Notification, dated July 11, 2025, proposes the Department of Revenue take over the entire land area of Bitra.
• The plan aims to transfer the island to central defence agencies citing its strategic location and national security relevance.
• The notification cites logistical and administrative challenges due to civilian habitation.
• The proposal will follow the Right to Fair Compensation and Transparency in Land Acquisition, Rehabilitation and Resettlement Act, 2013.
• A Social Impact Assessment (SIA) will be conducted, with consultations involving all stakeholders, including grama sabhas.
• The survey of the area is expected to be completed within two months of notification.
• Bitra
  • smallest inhabited island in Lakshadweep and located in its northern region.
  • houses a pilgrimage shrine dedicated to Malik Mulla, an Arab saint.
  • ecologically sensitive, once a breeding ground for seabirds.
• Bitra would become the third island in Lakshadweep to host a defence establishment after INS Dweeprakshak (Kavaratti) and INS Jatayu (Minicoy).
• The move has sparked concerns about displacement and connectivity among island residents.