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{{Short description|island in Lakshadweep, India}}
{{Short description|Island in Lakshadweep, India}}
{{more citations needed|date=July 2021}}
{{Use Indian English|date=April 2016}}
{{Use Indian English|date=April 2016}}
{{Use dmy dates|date=March 2013}}
{{Use dmy dates|date=July 2022}}
{{Infobox islands
{{Infobox islands
| name = Minicoy
| name = Minicoy
| sobriquet =
| sobriquet =
| image_name =
| image_name = File:Minicoy Island, Lakshadweep.jpg
| image_size =
| image_size =
| image_caption =
| image_caption =
| image_alt =
| image_alt =
| map =India
| map = India3#India Lakshadweep
| map_alt =
| map_alt =
| map_width =
| map_width =
| map_caption =
| map_caption =
| coordinates =
| coordinates = {{coord|8.275|N|73.05|E|region:IN-LD_type:isle_dim:50000_source:GNS-enwiki|display=inline,title}}
| etymology =
| etymology =
| location = [[Arabian Sea]]
| location = [[Arabian Sea]]
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| major_islands = {{hlist|Minicoy}}
| major_islands = {{hlist|Minicoy}}
| area_km2 =4.801
| area_km2 =4.801
| area_footnotes = <ref name="cit">{{cite web|url=http://censusindia.gov.in/2011-prov-results/data_files/lakshadweep/data%20sheet.pdf |title=Islandwise Area and Population - 2011 Census |publisher=Government of Lakshadweep |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160722061135/http://censusindia.gov.in/2011-prov-results/data_files/lakshadweep/data%20sheet.pdf |archive-date=22 July 2016 }}</ref>
| area_footnotes = <ref name="cit">{{cite web|url=http://censusindia.gov.in/2011-prov-results/data_files/lakshadweep/data%20sheet.pdf |title=Islandwise Area and Population – 2011 Census |publisher=Government of Lakshadweep |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160722061135/http://censusindia.gov.in/2011-prov-results/data_files/lakshadweep/data%20sheet.pdf |archive-date=22 July 2016 }}</ref>
| rank =
| rank =
| length_km =
| length_km =
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| label3 = Avg. summer temperature| data3 ={{convert|32.0|°C|°F}}
| label3 = Avg. summer temperature| data3 ={{convert|32.0|°C|°F}}
| label4 = Avg. winter temperature| data4 ={{convert|28.0|°C|°F}}
| label4 = Avg. winter temperature| data4 ={{convert|28.0|°C|°F}}
| label5 = [[Human sex ratio|Sex ratio]]| data5 =<!-- as of 2009 it is - 2433 male/2116 female [[male|♂]]/[[female|♀]]-->
| label5 = [[Human sex ratio|Sex ratio]]| data5 =<!-- as of 2009 it is – 2433 male/2116 female [[male|♂]]/[[female|♀]]-->
}}
}}
}}
}}
'''Minicoy''', locally known as '''Maliku''' ({{IPA-all|məliku}}), is an island in [[Lakshadweep]], India. Along with [[Viringili]], it is on ''Maliku atoll'', the southernmost [[atoll]] of Lakshadweep archipelago. Administratively, it is a [[census town]] in the Indian [[States and territories of India|union territory]] of Lakshadweep. The island is situated 398&nbsp;km west of [[Kochi]].
'''Minicoy''', locally known as '''Maliku''' ({{IPA-all|məliku}}), is an island in [[Lakshadweep]], India. Along with [[Viringili]], it is on Maliku atoll, the southernmost [[atoll]] of Lakshadweep archipelago. Administratively, it is a [[census town]] in the Indian [[States and territories of India|union territory]] of Lakshadweep. The island is situated 425&nbsp;km west of [[Trivandrum]], the capital city of [[Kerala]].


==Etymology==
==Etymology==
Minicoy is known as ''Maliku'' in the local language, Divehi, which is also the national and official language of the Republic of Maldives. The language is a descendant of [[Elu|Elu Prakrit]] and is closely related to the [[Sinhala language]], but not mutually intelligible with it. However, the Lakhshadweep Administration refers to Dhivehi as Mahl. This is due to a misunderstanding on the part of a British [[Indian Civil Service|civil servant]] who came to Minicoy in the 1900's during the time of the [[British Raj]]. The official asked a local what his language was and he replied "Divehi-bas". The official looked confused as he had never heard of this language. Noticing this, the islander said "Mahaldeebu" as he knew that locals on the [[Indian subcontinent|subcontinent]] referred to the kingdom to the south (the Maldives) by that name. The civil servant then official recorded the language of Minicoy as Mahl.<ref name="maldivesroyalfamily.com">http://www.maldivesroyalfamily.com/minicoy.shtml</ref>
Minicoy is known as ''Maliku'' in the local language, [[Maldivian language|Dhivehi]], which is also the national and official language of the [[Maldives|Republic of Maldives]]. The language is a descendant of [[Elu|Elu Prakrit]] and is closely related to the [[Sinhala language]], but not mutually intelligible with it. However, the Lakhshadweep Administration refers to Dhivehi as Mahl. This is due to a misunderstanding on the part of a British [[Indian Civil Service|civil servant]] who came to Minicoy in the 1900s during the time of the [[British Raj]]. The official asked a local what his language was and he replied "Dhivehi-bas". The official looked confused as he had never heard of this language. Noticing this, the islander said "Mahaldeebu" as he knew that locals on the [[Indian subcontinent|subcontinent]] referred to the kingdom to the south (the Maldives) by that name. The civil servant then official recorded the language of Minicoy as Mahl.<ref name="maldivesroyalfamily.com">{{Cite web|url=http://www.maldivesroyalfamily.com/minicoy.shtml|title=Maldives Royal Family Official Website: Majid's Pages- Minicoy Island Website}}</ref>


The ancient name of Maliku was ''Mahiladū'' meaning women's island. Mahiladū derives from [[Elu|Elu Prakrit]] term ''Mahila du'', which literally means woman-island.<ref>[https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=teMjElROVSo Asianet News - മിനികോയ് ദ്വീപ്‌ അകലങ്ങളിലെ ഇന്ത്യ]</ref>
The ancient name of Maliku was ''Mahiladū'' meaning women's island. Mahiladū derives from [[Elu|Elu Prakrit]] term ''Mahila du'', which literally means woman-island.<ref>[https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=teMjElROVSo Asianet News – മിനികോയ് ദ്വീപ്‌ അകലങ്ങളിലെ ഇന്ത്യ]</ref>
However, the name ''Maliku'' is thought to have been derived from the Arab trader's term for the island, ''Jazirat al-[[Malik]]u''{{dubious|date=April 2014}} ('the island of the king'). <!--Since it was the ancient capital of [[Lakshadweep]].----How does this fit in? Fix punctuation, please---><ref>Lutfy, Mohamed Ibrahim. Thaareekhuge therein Lakshadheebu</ref>{{page needed|date=January 2011}}
However, the name ''Maliku'' is thought to have been derived from the Arab trader's term for the island, ''Jazirat al-[[Malik]]u''{{dubious|date=April 2014}} ('the island of the king'). <!--Since it was the ancient capital of [[Lakshadweep]].----How does this fit in? Fix punctuation, please---><ref>Lutfy, Mohamed Ibrahim. Thaareekhuge therein Lakshadheebu</ref>{{page needed|date=January 2011}}


Minicoy islanders have long settled in the [[Nicobar Islands]] across the [[Bay of Bengal]]. These settlers regularly travelled back to Minicoy. The [[Andaman and Nicobar Islands]] had a reputation in the Maldives and Minicoy of being inhabited by [[cannibals]], and so collectively the Andaman and Nicobar groups were called "Minikaa-raajje" by Maldive and Minicoy islanders. This meant "cannibal kingdom".
Minicoy islanders have long settled in the [[Nicobar Islands]] across the [[Bay of Bengal]]. These settlers regularly travelled back to Minicoy. The [[Andaman and Nicobar Islands]] had a reputation in the Maldives and Minicoy of being inhabited by [[Human cannibalism|cannibals]], and so collectively the Andaman and Nicobar groups were called "Minikaa-raajje" by Minicoy and Maldive islanders. This meant "cannibal kingdom".


A British official once asked a Minicoy islander what the name of his island was. The islander told the official that he was from Maliku but usually lived in "Minikaa-raajje" (Nicobar). The official thought Maliku and Minikaa were the same place and recorded the name of this islander's home as "Minikaa". This later became anglicised as Minicoy.<ref name="maldivesroyalfamily.com"/>
A British official once asked a Minicoy islander what the name of his island was. The islander told the official that he was from Maliku but usually lived in "Minikaa-raajje" (Nicobar). The official thought Maliku and Minikaa were the same place and recorded the name of this islander's home as "Minikaa". This later became anglicised as Minicoy.<ref name="maldivesroyalfamily.com"/>


Little did this islander know that as a result of this cross-cultural exchange, his home would forever be called by a name that sounded like "[[cannibal]]" in his own language.
Little did this islander know that as a result of this cross-cultural exchange, his home would forever be called by a name that sounded like "[[Human cannibalism|cannibal]]" in his own language.


==Geography==
==Geography==
[[File:Viringili.jpg|thumb|right|The islet of Viringili located at the southwestern end of Minicoy's reef where formerly the [[leprosy|lepers]] of the island were banished.]]
[[File:Viringili.jpg|thumb|right|The islet of Viringili located at the southwestern end of Minicoy's reef where formerly the [[leprosy|lepers]] of the island were banished.]]
Minicoy is the second largest and the southernmost among the islands of the Lakshadweep archipelago. It is located 201&nbsp;km to the southsouthwest of [[Kalpeni]], at the southern end of the [[Nine Degree Channel]] and 125&nbsp;km to the north of [[Thuraakunu]], [[Maldives]], at the northern end of the [[Eight Degree Channel]]. The atoll is 10&nbsp;km in length, having a maximum breadth of about 6&nbsp;km. The closest geographic feature is the [[Investigator Bank]], a submerged shoal located 31&nbsp;km to the northeast.<ref>[http://permanent.access.gpo.gov/websites/pollux/pollux.nss.nima.mil/NAV_PUBS/SD/pub173/173sec05.pdf Hydrographic Description (Indian Ocean Pilot)]</ref>
Minicoy is the second largest and the southernmost among the islands of the Lakshadweep archipelago. It is located 201&nbsp;km to the south-southwest of [[Kalpeni]], at the southern end of the [[Nine Degree Channel]] and 125&nbsp;km to the north of [[Thuraakunu]], [[Maldives]], at the northern end of the [[Eight Degree Channel]]. The atoll is 10&nbsp;km in length, having a maximum breadth of about 6&nbsp;km. The closest geographic feature is the [[Investigator Bank]], a submerged shoal located 31&nbsp;km to the northeast.<ref>[http://permanent.access.gpo.gov/websites/pollux/pollux.nss.nima.mil/NAV_PUBS/SD/pub173/173sec05.pdf Hydrographic Description (Indian Ocean Pilot)]</ref>


It is located 400&nbsp;km west off the coast of [[Trivandrum]]. The atoll contains two islands. The main island is located on the eastern and southeastern side of the lagoon, along the reef fringe. It measures about 10&nbsp;km from its northern end to its southernmost point and it is about 1&nbsp;km wide in its southern half, while the northern half is a narrow sandspit, often less than 100&nbsp;m wide. Minicoy is almost completely covered with coconut trees. One of the few landmarks of the island is a tall lighthouse. On the southern side of the main island lies the uninhabited islet of Viringili ([[Dhivehi language|Dhivehi]]: ވިރިންގިލި ; {{lang-ml|വിരിന്ഗാ}}, also called the Small Pox Island), measuring barely 200&nbsp;m in length. Formerly the [[leprosy|lepers]] of Minicoy were banished to this island where they lived in abject conditions.
It is located 400&nbsp;km west off the coast of [[Trivandrum]]. The atoll contains two islands. The main island is located on the eastern and southeastern side of the lagoon, along the reef fringe. It measures about 10&nbsp;km from its northern end to its southernmost point and it is about 1&nbsp;km wide in its southern half, while the northern half is a narrow sandspit, often less than 100&nbsp;m wide. Minicoy is almost completely covered with coconut trees. One of the few landmarks of the island is the [[Minicoy Island Lighthouse]], which was built in 1885 during the British regime.<ref>{{Cite web |title=Minicoy |url=https://lakshadweep.gov.in/islands/minicoy/ |access-date=27 January 2024 |website=U.T. Administration Of Lakshadweep}}</ref> On the southern side of the main island lies the uninhabited islet of Viringili ({{langx|dv|ވިރިންގިލި}}; {{langx|ml|വിരിന്ഗാ}}, also called the Small Pox Island), measuring barely 200&nbsp;m in length. Formerly the [[leprosy|lepers]] of Minicoy were banished to this island where they lived in abject conditions.


Maliku Atoll has a lagoon with two entrances in its northern side, '''Saalu Magu''' on the northeast and '''Kandimma Magu''' on the northwest. Its western side is fringed by a narrow reef and coral rocks awash. The interior of the lagoon is sandy and of moderate depth, rarely reaching 4&nbsp;m. It has some coral patches.
Maliku Atoll has a lagoon with two entrances in its northern side, '''Saalu Magu''' on the northeast and '''Kandimma Magu''' on the northwest. Its western side is fringed by a narrow reef and coral rocks awash. The interior of the lagoon is sandy and of moderate depth, rarely reaching 4&nbsp;m. It has some coral patches.


This atoll is administered under the Indian Union Territory of Lakshadweep. Nine Degree Channel separates Minicoy and the Laccadive Islands. The closest island to Minicoy is Thuraakunu in the Republic of the Maldives. Since 1956, the Indian Government has forbidden the direct travelling between the two islands despite their geographic proximity and ethnographic similarities.
This atoll is administered under the Indian Union Territory of Lakshadweep. Nine Degree Channel separates Minicoy and the [[Laccadive Islands]]. The closest island to Minicoy is Thuraakunu in the Republic of the Maldives. Since 1956, the [[Government of India|Indian Government]] has forbidden the direct travelling between the two islands despite their geographic proximity and ethnographic similarities.


[[Maliku Kandu]] is the traditional name of the broad channel between Minicoy (Maliku) and Ihavandippulhu (Haa Alif Atoll) in the Maldives. In the Admiralty Charts it is called '''Eight Degree Channel'''. Other names for this channel are Addigiri Kandu and Māmalē Kandu. It appeared in old French maps with the name '''Courant de Malicut'''.
[[Maliku Kandu]] is the traditional name of the broad channel between Minicoy (Maliku) and Ihavandippulhu (Haa Alif Atoll) in the Maldives. In the Admiralty Charts it is called '''Eight Degree Channel'''. Other names for this channel are Addigiri Kandu and Māmalē Kandu. It appeared in old French maps with the name '''Courant de Malicut'''.
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{{Weather box
{{Weather box
| location = Minicoy (1981–2010, extremes 1901–2012)
| location = Minicoy (1991–2020, extremes 1901–2020)
| metric first = Y
| metric first = Y
| single line = Y
| single line = Y
| Jan record high C = 32.8
| Jan record high C = 32.9
| Feb record high C = 33.2
| Feb record high C = 33.8
| Mar record high C = 34.3
| Mar record high C = 34.6
| Apr record high C = 35.6
| Apr record high C = 35.6
| May record high C = 36.7
| May record high C = 36.7
| Jun record high C = 34.5
| Jun record high C = 34.5
| Jul record high C = 33.4
| Jul record high C = 33.6
| Aug record high C = 33.4
| Aug record high C = 33.4
| Sep record high C = 33.2
| Sep record high C = 33.2
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| Dec record high C = 33.3
| Dec record high C = 33.3
| year record high C = 36.7
| year record high C = 36.7
| Jan high C = 31.1
| Jan high C = 31.3
| Feb high C = 31.4
| Feb high C = 31.7
| Mar high C = 32.4
| Mar high C = 32.6
| Apr high C = 33.0
| Apr high C = 33.3
| May high C = 32.8
| May high C = 32.9
| Jun high C = 31.3
| Jun high C = 31.5
| Jul high C = 30.9
| Jul high C = 31.0
| Aug high C = 30.9
| Aug high C = 31.1
| Sep high C = 30.9
| Sep high C = 31.1
| Oct high C = 31.1
| Oct high C = 31.2
| Nov high C = 31.0
| Nov high C = 31.2
| Dec high C = 31.2
| Dec high C = 31.3
| year high C = 31.5
| year high C = 31.7
| Jan mean C = 27.6
| Jan mean C = 27.8
| Feb mean C = 27.9
| Feb mean C = 28.2
| Mar mean C = 29.0
| Mar mean C = 29.2
| Apr mean C = 30.0
| Apr mean C = 30.1
| May mean C = 29.7
| May mean C = 29.8
| Jun mean C = 28.4
| Jun mean C = 28.6
| Jul mean C = 28.2
| Jul mean C = 28.2
| Aug mean C = 28.2
| Aug mean C = 28.3
| Sep mean C = 28.2
| Sep mean C = 28.3
| Oct mean C = 28.1
| Oct mean C = 28.2
| Nov mean C = 27.9
| Nov mean C = 28.1
| Dec mean C = 27.8
| Dec mean C = 28.1
|year mean C =
|year mean C =
| Jan low C = 24.1
| Jan low C = 24.3
| Feb low C = 24.5
| Feb low C = 24.7
| Mar low C = 25.6
| Mar low C = 25.7
| Apr low C = 26.8
| Apr low C = 26.8
| May low C = 26.7
| May low C = 26.8
| Jun low C = 25.6
| Jun low C = 25.8
| Jul low C = 25.4
| Jul low C = 25.4
| Aug low C = 25.4
| Aug low C = 25.5
| Sep low C = 25.4
| Sep low C = 25.5
| Oct low C = 25.1
| Oct low C = 25.2
| Nov low C = 24.8
| Nov low C = 25.0
| Dec low C = 24.5
| Dec low C = 24.7
| year low C = 25.3
| year low C = 25.4
| Jan record low C = 17.8
| Jan record low C = 17.8
| Feb record low C = 17.2
| Feb record low C = 17.2
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| year record low C = 16.7
| year record low C = 16.7
| rain colour = green
| rain colour = green
| Jan rain mm = 30.3
| Jan rain mm = 35.9
| Feb rain mm = 16.5
| Feb rain mm = 20.9
| Mar rain mm = 21.6
| Mar rain mm = 24.2
| Apr rain mm = 50.2
| Apr rain mm = 52.6
| May rain mm = 168.0
| May rain mm = 163.3
| Jun rain mm = 315.5
| Jun rain mm = 291.3
| Jul rain mm = 246.1
| Jul rain mm = 260.6
| Aug rain mm = 214.2
| Aug rain mm = 208.8
| Sep rain mm = 150.1
| Sep rain mm = 162.6
| Oct rain mm = 163.5
| Oct rain mm = 172.6
| Nov rain mm = 152.3
| Nov rain mm = 143.1
| Dec rain mm = 65.5
| Dec rain mm = 98.7
| year rain mm = 1593.7
| year rain mm = 1634.7
| Jan rain days = 2.0
| Jan rain days = 2.1
| Feb rain days = 1.4
| Feb rain days = 1.2
| Mar rain days = 1.3
| Mar rain days = 1.6
| Apr rain days = 3.4
| Apr rain days = 3.2
| May rain days = 9.2
| May rain days = 9.3
| Jun rain days = 16.8
| Jun rain days = 16.2
| Jul rain days = 14.3
| Jul rain days = 14.9
| Aug rain days = 11.9
| Aug rain days = 11.9
| Sep rain days = 10.7
| Sep rain days = 10.6
| Oct rain days = 9.5
| Oct rain days = 10.1
| Nov rain days = 8.1
| Nov rain days = 7.9
| Dec rain days = 3.7
| Dec rain days = 4.4
| year rain days = 92.2
| year rain days = 93.5
|time day = 17:30 [[Indian Standard Time|IST]]
|time day = 17:30 [[Indian Standard Time|IST]]
| Jan humidity = 71
| Jan humidity = 72
| Feb humidity = 70
| Feb humidity = 71
| Mar humidity = 69
| Mar humidity = 71
| Apr humidity = 71
| Apr humidity = 72
| May humidity = 75
| May humidity = 76
| Jun humidity = 81
| Jun humidity = 81
| Jul humidity = 80
| Jul humidity = 81
| Aug humidity = 79
| Aug humidity = 80
| Sep humidity = 78
| Sep humidity = 79
| Oct humidity = 78
| Oct humidity = 79
| Nov humidity = 77
| Nov humidity = 78
| Dec humidity = 73
| Dec humidity = 75
|year humidity = 75
|year humidity = 76
| Jan sun = 269.7
| Jan sun = 269.7
| Feb sun = 248.6
| Feb sun = 248.6
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| Decd sun = 8.4
| Decd sun = 8.4
|yeard sun = 7.3
|yeard sun = 7.3
|source 1 = [[India Meteorological Department]] (sun, 1971–2000)<ref name=IMDnormals>
|source 1 = [[India Meteorological Department]] (sun, 1971–2000)<ref>{{cite web
| url = https://imdpune.gov.in/library/public/Climatological%20Tables%201991-2020.pdf
| title = Climatological Tables of Observatories in India 1991-2020
| publisher = [[India Meteorological Department]]
| access-date = April 8, 2024
}}</ref><ref name=IMDnormals>
{{cite web
{{cite web
| archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20200205040301/http://imdpune.gov.in/library/public/1981-2010%20CLIM%20NORMALS%20%28STATWISE%29.pdf
| archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20200205040301/http://imdpune.gov.in/library/public/1981-2010%20CLIM%20NORMALS%20%28STATWISE%29.pdf
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| url-status = dead
| url-status = dead
}}</ref>
}}</ref>
|source 2 = Tokyo Climate Center (mean temperatures 1981–2010)<ref name=TCC>
|source 2 = Tokyo Climate Center (mean temperatures 1991–2020)<ref name=TCC>
{{cite web
{{cite web
| archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20200301162037/https://ds.data.jma.go.jp/gmd/tcc/tcc/products/climate/normal/parts/NrmMonth_e.php?stn=43369
| archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20200301162037/https://ds.data.jma.go.jp/gmd/tcc/tcc/products/climate/normal/parts/NrmMonth_e.php?stn=43369
| archive-date = 1 March 2020
| archive-date = 1 March 2020
| url = https://ds.data.jma.go.jp/gmd/tcc/tcc/products/climate/normal/parts/NrmMonth_e.php?stn=43369
| url = https://ds.data.jma.go.jp/gmd/tcc/tcc/products/climate/normal/parts/NrmMonth_e.php?stn=43369
| title = Normals Data: Minicoy - India Latitude: 8.30°N Longitude: 73.15°E Height: 0 (m)
| title = Normals Data: Minicoy – India Latitude: 8.30°N Longitude: 73.15°E Height: 0 (m)
| publisher = Japan Meteorological Agency
| publisher = Japan Meteorological Agency
| access-date = 1 March 2020}}</ref>
| access-date = 1 March 2020}}</ref>
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{{See also | Buddhism in South Asia }}
{{See also | Buddhism in South Asia }}


There are remains in an area of the island known as "Salliballu" dating back from Minicoy's [[Buddhist]] past, about 800 years ago. The most conspicuous archaeological sites are two mounds or large heaps of ruins belonging to a [[stupa]] and another related structure. These sites were investigated by the [[Archaeological Survey of India]] in the 1980s. The excavations yielded few discoveries, for the sites had been much damaged and vandalized previously. Still, a much-damaged large [[Buddha]] head was found buried in the area. The name "Salliballu" originated in the local name for the "[[Cross|Christian cross]]", because the locals say that an inscription with a "cross" was found there. But it is likely that, coming from a Buddhist site, it was a cross-shaped [[mandala]] or [[Vajra|visvavajra]], like those often found on inscriptions in archaeological remains in the Maldives.<ref name="ReferenceA">[[Xavier Romero-Frias]], ''The Maldive Islanders, A Study of the Popular Culture of an Ancient Ocean Kingdom.'' Barcelona 1999</ref>
There are remains in an area of the island known as "Salliballu" dating back from Minicoy's [[Buddhist]] past, about 800 years ago. The most conspicuous archaeological sites are two mounds or large heaps of ruins belonging to a [[stupa]] and another related structure. These sites were investigated by the [[Archaeological Survey of India]] in the 1980s. The excavations yielded few discoveries, for the sites had been much damaged and vandalized previously. Still, a much-damaged large [[Buddha]] head was found buried in the area. The name "Salliballu" originated in the local name for the "[[Christian cross]]", because the locals say that an inscription with a "cross" was found there. But it is likely that, coming from a Buddhist site, it was a cross-shaped [[mandala]] or [[Vajra|visvavajra]], like those often found on inscriptions in archaeological remains in the Maldives.<ref name="ReferenceA">[[Xavier Romero-Frias]], ''The Maldive Islanders, A Study of the Popular Culture of an Ancient Ocean Kingdom.'' Barcelona 1999</ref>


Local oral tradition has it that Kamborani and Kohoratukamana, two princesses from the [[Maldives]], came to Maliku. When they arrived, the [[Tivaru]], who had been living there before, left the island for [[Sri Lanka]]. The Kamborani's descendants are the bodun (land and shipowners) and the descendants of Kohoratukamana are the niamin (captains). The other status groups are made up of the descendants of their crew.<ref>Ellen Kattner, ''The Social Structure of Maliku (Minicoy)'', listed below (online).</ref>
Local oral tradition has it that Kamborani and Kohoratukamana, two princesses from the [[Maldives]], came to Maliku. When they arrived, the [[Tivaru]], who had been living there before, left the island for [[Sri Lanka]]. The Kamborani's descendants are the bodun (land and shipowners) and the descendants of Kohoratukamana are the niamin (captains). The other status groups are made up of the descendants of their crew.<ref>Ellen Kattner, ''The Social Structure of Maliku (Minicoy)'', listed below (online).</ref>
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==== Under suzerainty of East India Company ====
==== Under suzerainty of East India Company ====
{{See also | Kolathunadu | l1 = Kolathunadu of Kerala | Company rule in India | British India | History of the Maldives }}
{{See also | Kolathunadu | l1 = Kolathunadu of Kerala | Company rule in India | British India | History of the Maldives }}

According to the documented evidence, Minicoy Atoll has been under Indian administrations since the mid 16th century.


Until the 16th century, the Laccadives was under the [[suzerainty]] of the [[Kolathunadu|Kolathiri]] Raja of [[Chirakkal, Kannur|Chirakkal]] in what is now the Indian state of [[Kerala]]. With the [[Portuguese people|Portuguese]] ascendancy in the region, it became necessary for the [[Kolathiri]] to transfer sovereignty of the islands to their hereditary admiral, the [[Ali Raja]] of [[Kolathunadu]] ([[Cannanore]]).
Until the 16th century, the Laccadives was under the [[suzerainty]] of the [[Kolathunadu|Kolathiri]] Raja of [[Chirakkal, Kannur|Chirakkal]] in what is now the Indian state of [[Kerala]]. With the [[Portuguese people|Portuguese]] ascendancy in the region, it became necessary for the [[Kolathiri]] to transfer sovereignty of the islands to their hereditary admiral, the [[Ali Raja]] of [[Kolathunadu]] ([[Cannanore]]).
Line 318: Line 322:
{{See also | British raj | Arakkal kingdom | l2= Arakkal kingdom of Kerala | Ali Raja }}
{{See also | British raj | Arakkal kingdom | l2= Arakkal kingdom of Kerala | Ali Raja }}


In 1857, suzerainty over Minicoy transferred from the East India Company to the Indian Empire when [[Queen Victoria]] was proclaimed Empress. On 18 December 1790 Maliku was surrendered to the Court of Directors of the British [[East India Company]] by the [[Ali Raja]] [[Arakkal kingdom|Cannanore]], Junumabe Ali-Adi Raja Bibi II. The Ali Raja was allowed to administer Maliku in return for a tribute to the East India Company. She continued to dispute the transfer of sovereignty but in 1824, her successor, Mariambe Ali-Adi Raja Bibi made a formal written recognition of the suzerainty of the East India Company over Maliku (Minicoy). She and her successors, however, continued the tributary arrangement. On 27 July 1795, the Governor General of the Presidency of Madras under whose jurisdiction Minicoy was, abolished Junumabe Ali Adi-Raja Bibi's monopoly over [[coir]] trade. In 1905 under the heavy burden of debts to the Empire, Mohamed Ali-Adi Raja of Cannanore agreed to surrender sovereignty and control over Minicoy. He died before the formal transfer. After an attempt to backtrack, his successor Imbicchi Ali-Adi Raja Bibi finally signed over Minicoy to the Emperor [[Edward VII]] on 9 February 1909, backdated to 1 July 1905. Following this, Minicoy was annexed to the District of Malabar.
In 1857, suzerainty over Minicoy transferred from the East India Company to the Indian Empire when [[Queen Victoria]] was proclaimed Empress. On 18 December 1790 Maliku was surrendered to the Court of Directors of the British [[East India Company]] by the [[Ali Raja]] [[Arakkal kingdom|Cannanore]], Junumabe Ali-Adi Raja Bibi II. The Ali Raja was allowed to administer Maliku in return for a tribute to the East India Company. She continued to dispute the transfer of sovereignty but in 1824, her successor, Mariambe Ali-Adi Raja Bibi made a formal written recognition of the suzerainty of the East India Company over Maliku (Minicoy). She and her successors, however, continued the tributary arrangement. On 27 July 1795, the Governor General of the Presidency of Madras under whose jurisdiction Minicoy was, abolished Junumabe Ali Adi-Raja Bibi's monopoly over [[coir]] trade. In 1905 under the heavy burden of debts to the Empire, Mohamed Ali-Adi Raja of [[Kannur|Cannanore]] agreed to surrender sovereignty and control over Minicoy. He died before the formal transfer. After an attempt to backtrack, his successor Imbicchi Ali-Adi Raja Bibi finally signed over Minicoy to the Emperor [[Edward VII]] on 9 February 1909, backdated to 1 July 1905. Following this, Minicoy was annexed to the District of Malabar.


=== After independence of India ===
=== After independence of India ===
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{{See also | Political integration of India }}
{{See also | Political integration of India }}


After the [[independence of India]] in August 1947, the possessions of the Emperor of India passed to either the Indian Union or Pakistan according to an agreed demarcation line. The rulers of the [[princely state]] of British India had the choice of acceding to either India or Pakistan. Since Minicoy was earlier in a sovereign possession of the British Raj, India held a plebiscite in Minicoy in 1956 to determine whether or not the people of Minicoy wished to join the Indian Union. A referendum was held and an absolute majority of the Minicoy decided to join the Indian Union.
After the [[Indian independence movement|independence of India]] in August 1947, the possessions of the Emperor of India passed to either the Indian Union or Pakistan according to an agreed demarcation line. The rulers of the [[princely state]] of British India had the choice of acceding to either India or Pakistan. Since Minicoy was earlier in a sovereign possession of the British Raj, India held a plebiscite in Minicoy in 1956 to determine whether or not the people of Minicoy wished to join the Indian Union. A referendum was held and an absolute majority of the Minicoy decided to join the Indian Union.


==== Union Territory of India ====
==== Union Territory of India ====
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[[File:Lighthouse worms eye.jpg|thumb|upright|Worm's-eye view of the Lighthouse in Minicoy island]]
[[File:Lighthouse worms eye.jpg|thumb|upright|Worm's-eye view of the Lighthouse in Minicoy island]]


In December 1976, India and the Maldives signed a [[List of maritime boundary treaties|maritime boundary treaty]] whereby Minicoy was placed on the Indian side of the boundary.<ref>"India–Maldives: Agreement between India and the Maldives on Maritime Boundary in the Arabian Sea and Related Matters", in Jonathan I. Charney and Lewis M. Alexander (eds., 1998). ''International Maritime Boundaries'' (Leiden: Martinus Nijhoff Publishers, {{ISBN|978-90-411-0345-1}}) pp. 1389–1399.</ref> India and Maldives officially and amicably decided their [[maritime boundary]] in 1976,<ref name="CFR">{{cite web|url=http://www.himalmag.com/97mar/cov-mal.htm |title=Maldives, Sri Lanka and the "India Factor" |access-date=5 June 2008 |publisher=Himal South Asia Magazine |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20080529195009/http://www.himalmag.com/97mar/cov-mal.htm |archive-date=29 May 2008 |url-status=dead |df=dmy-all }}</ref> in 1982 when the brother of the [[President of Maldives]] [[Maumoon Abdul Gayoom]] declared that the neighbouring [[Minicoy Island]] that belonged to India were a part of Maldives; Maldives quickly and officially denied that it was laying claim to the island.<ref name="CFR"/><ref name = trivedi>Ramesh Trivedi (2007). ''India's Relations with her Neighbours'' (Isha Books, {{ISBN|978-81-8205-438-7}}) p. 177.</ref>
In December 1976, India and the Maldives signed a [[List of maritime boundary treaties|maritime boundary treaty]] whereby Minicoy was placed on the Indian side of the boundary.<ref>"India–Maldives: Agreement between India and the Maldives on Maritime Boundary in the Arabian Sea and Related Matters", in Jonathan I. Charney and Lewis M. Alexander (eds., 1998). ''International Maritime Boundaries'' (Leiden: Martinus Nijhoff Publishers, {{ISBN|978-90-411-0345-1}}) pp. 1389–1399.</ref> India and Maldives officially and amicably decided their [[maritime boundary]] in 1976,<ref name="CFR">{{cite web|url=http://www.himalmag.com/97mar/cov-mal.htm |title=Maldives, Sri Lanka and the "India Factor" |access-date=5 June 2008 |publisher=Himal South Asia Magazine |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20080529195009/http://www.himalmag.com/97mar/cov-mal.htm |archive-date=29 May 2008 |url-status=dead }}</ref> in 1982 when the brother of the [[President of Maldives]] [[Maumoon Abdul Gayoom]], [[Abdulla Hameed]] declared that the neighbouring [[Minicoy Island]] that belonged to India were a part of Maldives; Maldives quickly and officially denied that it was laying claim to the island.<ref name="CFR"/><ref name = trivedi>Ramesh Trivedi (2007). ''India's Relations with her Neighbours'' (Isha Books, {{ISBN|978-81-8205-438-7}}) p. 177.</ref>


India and Maldives continue to enjoy friendly relations and [[India–Maldives relations|strategic partnership]] with economic and military cooperation.<ref name="G">{{cite web |url=http://lcweb2.loc.gov/cgi-bin/query/r?frd/cstdy:@field(DOCID+in0176) |title=china - India relations |access-date=5 June 2008 |publisher=[[Library of Congress]] Country Studies}}</ref><ref name="CFR"/> [[India]] continues to contribute to the [[Indian Armed Forces|security]] of the island nation of [[Maldives]].<ref name="CFR"/><ref name="VA3">{{cite book |author=Devin T. Hagerty |title=South Asia in World Politics |pages=102–103|publisher=Rowman and Littlefield |year=2005 |isbn=0-7425-2587-2}}</ref>
India and Maldives continue to enjoy friendly relations and a [[India–Maldives relations|strategic partnership]] in economic and military fields.<ref name="G">{{cite web |url=http://lcweb2.loc.gov/cgi-bin/query/r?frd/cstdy:@field(DOCID+in0176) |title=china – India relations |access-date=5 June 2008 |publisher=[[Library of Congress]] Country Studies}}</ref><ref name="CFR"/> [[India]] continues to contribute to the [[Indian Armed Forces|security]] of the island nation of [[Maldives]].<ref name="CFR"/><ref name="VA3">{{cite book |author=Devin T. Hagerty |title=South Asia in World Politics |pages=102–103|publisher=Rowman and Littlefield |year=2005 |isbn=0-7425-2587-2}}</ref>


==Demographics==
==Demographics==
{{pie chart
{{As of|2001}} India [[census]],<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.censusindia.net/results/town.php?stad=A&state5=999|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20040616075334/http://www.censusindia.net/results/town.php?stad=A&state5=999|archive-date=2004-06-16|title= Census of India 2001: Data from the 2001 Census, including cities, villages and towns (Provisional)|access-date=2008-11-01|publisher= Census Commission of India}}</ref> the island of Minicoy had a population of 9,495. Males constitute 49% of the population and females 51%. Minicoy has an average literacy rate of 82%, higher than the national average of 74.04%: male literacy is 84%, and female literacy is 80%. In Minicoy, 12% of the population is under 6 years of age. The people of Minicoy are ethnically [[Dhivehis]] and make up the third subgroup of Dhivehis referred as [[Mahls]]. The people locally identify themselves as "Malikun".
|thumb = right
|caption = Religion in Minicoy Island (2011)<ref name="Minicoy Population">{{cite web|url=https://www.censusindia2011.com/lakshadweep/lakshadweep/minicoy-population.html|title=Minicoy Island population|work=Census India 2011|accessdate=15 January 2024}}</ref>
|label1 = [[Islam]]
|value1 = 96.58
|color1 = Green
|label2 = [[Hinduism]]
|value2 = 2.5
|color2 = DarkOrange
|label3 = [[Christianity]]
|value3 = 0.78
|color3 = Blue
|label4 = Others
|value4 = 0.1
|color4 = Grey
|label5 = Not Stated
|value5 = 0.04
|color5 = Black
}}


{{As of|2011}} India [[census]],<ref name="Minicoy Population"/> the island of Minicoy had a population of 10,447. Males constitute 51% of the population and females 49%. Minicoy has an average literacy rate of 83.93%, higher than the national average of 74.04%: male literacy is 85.82%, and female literacy is 81.93%. In Minicoy, 9.6% of the population is under 6 years of age.
==Culture==
[[File:Minicoy123.jpg|thumb|right|A view of the shores of Minicoy Island.]]
The cultural traits of Minicoy differ from those of any other island in [[Lakshadweep]]. Manners, customs, lifestyle and food are similar to those of the [[Maldives]] to the south of Minicoy and [[Mahl dialect|Malikubas]] (officially referred as Mahl by the Lakshadweep administration), a dialect of [[Dhivehi language]], is spoken on the island.<ref>Clarence Maloney; ''People of the Maldive Islands''</ref> Like in other Dhivehi-speaking communities, the right-to-left [[Tāna]] script is used for writing.


==Transportation==
The social structure is anthropologically interesting, being a [[Matrilineality|matrilineal]] [[Muslim]] society with natolocal residence. A man will live in either his mother's or his wife's house. Remarriage for both men and women is accepted. Property is inalienable and owned by "houses" (matrilineal descent groups). As Muslims, they have conservative customs and traditions and yet they are liberal in approach. Here a man after marriage stays a member of his own mother's house throughout his life. Quite frequently Minicoy is referred to as the "female island" mentioned in the [[The Travels of Marco Polo|travelogue]] of [[Marco Polo]].
⚫
===Sea===
⚫
[[MV Corals|MV ''Corals'']], MV ''Lagoons'', MV ''Amindivi'', MV ''Arabian Sea'', MV ''Bharat Seema'', MV ''Dweep Setu'', MV ''Kavaratti'', MV ''Lakshadweep Sea'' and MV ''Minicoy'' are the important passenger ships connecting [[Lakshadweep]] with [[Kerala]]. The passage takes between 14 and 20 hours.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://lakshadweep.nic.in/howtoreach.html|title=How to reach the Union territory of Lakshadweep|access-date=2014-08-27|publisher=lakshadweep.nic.in|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20141231102317/http://lakshadweep.nic.in/howtoreach.html|archive-date=31 December 2014|url-status=dead}}</ref>


⚫
The [[Lakshadweep]] authorities are seeking an opportunity to invest in Port City of Kerala [[Kollam]]. They are ready to invest in a passenger terminal with dormitory facilities and an office to guide the people of Minicoy reaching Kollam Port.<ref>{{cite news|url=http://www.thehindu.com/todays-paper/tp-national/tp-kerala/lakshadweep-keen-on-investing-in-kollam-port/article86649.ece|title= Lakshadweep keen on investing in Kollam port|access-date=2014-08-27|work= The Hindu|date= 7 December 2009}}</ref> Traditionally, Lakshadweep's connections with the mainland have been through [[Kollam]], [[Kochi]] and [[Beypore]] ports. But Minicoy, a small atoll at the southernmost end of the archipelago, is closer to Kollam than to either Kochi or Beypore.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.newindianexpress.com/cities/thiruvananthapuram/Passenger-Ship-Service-Likely-between-Kollam-and-Minicoy/2014/06/25/article2298964.ece|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20140625151914/http://www.newindianexpress.com/cities/thiruvananthapuram/Passenger-Ship-Service-Likely-between-Kollam-and-Minicoy/2014/06/25/article2298964.ece|url-status=dead|archive-date=25 June 2014|title= Passenger Ship Service Likely between Kollam and Minicoy|access-date=2014-08-27|work= The New Indian Express}}</ref>
[[Thuraakunu (Haa Alif Atoll)|Thuraakunu]] in the Maldives is the closest island to Minicoy. Formerly there was direct trade between both, and fishermen from both islands used to visit each other. This exchange continued even after Minicoy became part of the Indian Union after independence. However, since 1956 the Indian government has forbidden these visits between two nations. The people of Maliku are known as good sailors, and also for boat building and other crafts. The Indian seafarers originated from Maliku island.


===Status groups===
===Air===
[[Agatti Airport]] is the only civilian airport in [[Lakshadweep]]. Helicopter transfer is available from Agatti to Minicoy throughout the year. The flight from [[Cochin]] to [[Agatti Aerodrome|Agatti]] takes approximately one hour thirty minutes. Flights operate six days a week.
The {{transl|mis|bodun}} owned land and {{transl|mis|bandu-odies}} (merchant ships); they were the {{transl|mis|vering}} (rulers). The {{transl|mis|niamin}} were pilots of the Bandu-odies and while on shore assisted the {{transl|mis|bodun}} in administrative and other leadership functions; they were custodians of property and supervised public work. The {{transl|mis|medhukimbin}} and the {{transl|mis|raaverin}} were working classes (the {{transl|mis|medhukimbin}} enjoying a status higher than the {{transl|mis|raaverin}}.) The {{transl|mis|raaverin}} tapped coconut palms for {{transl|mis|toddy}}, a distinctive beverage converted into sweet palm syrup. Coconut vinegar, known as {{transl|mis|raahuiiy}}, was also produced by the {{transl|mis|raaverin}}.


On 18 July 2024, the Government of India had cleared the proposal to develop an airport at Minicoy Island as a tri-service military base with a civilian air enclave. The airbase will be capable of operating fighter jets, long-range UAVs and military transport aircraft along with commercial flights. The airbase will be located near the recently commissioned naval base, [[INS Jatayu]]. The project is led by the [[Indian Air Force]] and will be used by all the branches of the [[Indian Armed Forces|Armed Forces]] and the [[Indian Coast Guard]].<ref>{{Cite web |last=Gupta |first=Shobhit |date=9 January 2024 |title=India plans new airport at Lakshadweep's Minicoy amid row with Maldives |url=https://www.hindustantimes.com/india-news/india-plans-new-airport-at-lakshadweeps-minicoy-amid-row-with-maldives-101704808195509.html |access-date=27 January 2024 |website=Hindustan Times}}</ref><ref>{{Cite news |date=2024-07-18 |title=Amid rising Chinese activities, India clears major plans to build two military airfields in Lakshadweep |url=https://economictimes.indiatimes.com/news/defence/amid-rising-chinese-activities-india-clears-major-plans-to-build-two-military-airfields-in-lakshadweep/articleshow/111843730.cms?from=mdr |access-date=2024-07-19 |work=The Economic Times |issn=0013-0389}}</ref><ref>{{Cite news |title=New defence airfield at Minicoy gets nod as govt expands Lakshadweep military presence |url=https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/india/new-defence-airfield-at-minicoy-gets-nod-as-govt-expands-lakshadweep-military-presence/amp_articleshow/111845497.cms |access-date=2024-07-19 |work=The Times of India |issn=0971-8257}}</ref>
⚫
===Customs===
Each village of Maliku has a ''Bodukaaka'' (male mayor) and ''Bodudhatha'' (female mayor) who conduct village business at a gathering known as ''Baemedu''. The Bodukaaka announces Baemedu by sending children of the village to each house. Male members gather in the village house to learn the purpose of the Baemedu. After the work is finished, there is a feast prepared by female members of the village.


⚫
==Notable people==
A newborn child is named on its day of birth (this is different from the Maldivian tradition of being named on the seventh day). The baby normally stays in the room in which it is born (which is customarily the ancestral home of the mother) for the first six days. The mother's house name becomes the child's surname. On the seventh day after birth, the baby is taken to the father's ancestral home, where jewellery is presented.
⚫
*[[Ali Manikfan]], born 1938


== See also ==
After 20 days, the baby's head is shaven and the hair is weighed against something of value, traditionally gold or silver, which would be given to the poor. This ceremony is called {{transl|mis|boabeylun}}.
{{portal|Islands}}


* [[INS Jatayu]]
Circumcision of boys is followed by much celebration. Dancing and drumming in the evening forms part of the entertainment. The festivities usually continue for about a week.

===Religion===
Minicoy islanders, like the other Lakshadweep islanders, follow Islam.

==Entry==
Under the Laccadive, Minicoy and Aminidivi Islands (Laws) Regulations, 1967 of the Government of India, the following people may enter Minicoy (Maliku):

# Persons who had taken up permanent residence in Minicoy at any time before 1967 and members of the families of such persons.
# Member of the Armed Forces of India entering Minicoy on duty.
# Persons serving in connection with the administration of the Union Territory of Lakshadweep proceeding to Minicoy on official duty and members of their families.
# Officials and non-officials sponsored by any of the Ministries or Departments of the Government of India or the Administrator of Lakshadweep.
# Indian Tourists permitted by the Administrator of Lakshadweep.
# Non-Indian nationals permitted by the Ministry of Home Affairs of the Government of India for visits for such periods as may be specified by the Ministry, or the Administrator of Lakshadweep.
# Employees of the Indian federal and state governments, Indian public sector undertakings and bona fide domestic servants and cooks permitted by the Administrator of Lakshadweep.
# Maldive nationals permitted by the High Commissioner of India to the Maldives to visit specifically Minicoy for the period not exceeding fifteen days. Such persons may not disembark on any other Lakshadweep island unless permitted as per point 6 above.

The High Commissioner of India in Malé shall intimate the names of the persons whose visits are permitted and the period of their stay to the Administrator of Lakshadweep sufficiently in advance. The Administrator may, on valid grounds, extend the period of stay of Maldive nationals.

==Transport==
⚫
[[MV Corals|MV ''Corals'']], MV ''Lagoons'', MV ''Amindivi'', MV ''Arabian Sea'', MV ''Bharat Seema'', MV ''Dweep Setu'', MV ''Kavaratti'', MV ''Lakshadweep Sea'' and MV ''Minicoy'' are the important passenger ships connecting [[Lakshadweep]] with [[Kerala]]. The passage takes between 14 and 20 hours.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://lakshadweep.nic.in/howtoreach.html|title=How to reach the Union territory of Lakshadweep|access-date=2014-08-27|publisher=lakshadweep.nic.in|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20141231102317/http://lakshadweep.nic.in/howtoreach.html|archive-date=31 December 2014|url-status=dead}}</ref>

[[Agatti Airport]] is the only civilian airport in [[Lakshadweep]]. Helicopter transfer is available from Agatti to Kavaratti throughout the year. The flight from [[Cochin]] to [[Agatti Aerodrome|Agatti]] takes approximately one hour thirty minutes. Flights operate six days a week. The Government of India is planning to develop an airport at Minicoy Island to boost tourism and promote tuna fishing industry for improving livelihoods in Lakshadweep.<ref>{{cite news|title= Lakshadweep’s Minicoy Island to get airport |url=http://www.thehindubusinessline.com/economy/logistics/coming-soon-airport-at-lakshadweeps-minicoy-island/article9949217.ece |work=[[The Hindu Business Line]] |date= 8 November 2017| access-date=10 November 2017}}</ref>

⚫
The [[Lakshadweep]] authorities are seeking an opportunity to invest in Port City of Kerala [[Kollam]]. They are ready to invest in a passenger terminal with dormitory facilities and an office to guide the people of Minicoy reaching Kollam Port.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.thehindu.com/todays-paper/tp-national/tp-kerala/lakshadweep-keen-on-investing-in-kollam-port/article86649.ece|title= Lakshadweep keen on investing in Kollam port|access-date=2014-08-27|publisher= The Hindu}}</ref> Traditionally, Lakshadweep's connections with the mainland have been through [[Kollam]], [[Kochi]] and [[Beypore]] ports. But Minicoy, a small atoll at the southernmost end of the archipelago, is closer to Kollam than to either Kochi or Beypore.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.newindianexpress.com/cities/thiruvananthapuram/Passenger-Ship-Service-Likely-between-Kollam-and-Minicoy/2014/06/25/article2298964.ece|title= Passenger Ship Service Likely between Kollam and Minicoy|access-date=2014-08-27|publisher= The New Indian Express}}</ref>

⚫
==Notable people==
⚫
*[[Ali Manikfan]], born 1938


==Image gallery==
==Image gallery==
Line 400: Line 396:


==References==
==References==
⚫
{{Reflist}}

⚫
{{Reflist|30em}}


==Bibliography==
==Bibliography==
* Bell, H.C.P.: The Maldive Islands, An account of the physical features, History, Inhabitants, Productions and Trade. Colombo 1883.
* Bell, H.C.P.: The Maldive Islands, An account of the physical features, History, Inhabitants, Productions and Trade. Colombo 1883.
* Ellis, R.H.: ''A Short Account of the Laccadive Islands and Minicoy''. Government Press, Madras, 1924.
* Ellis, R.H.: ''A Short Account of the Laccadive Islands and Minicoy''. Government Press, Madras, 1924.
* Kattner, Ellen: ''The Social Structure of Maliku (Minicoy).'' In: ''International Institute of Asian Studies (IIAS) Newsletter''. Nr. 10, 1996, S. 19-20. (Online at http://www.maldivesroyalfamily.com/minicoy_kattner.shtml).
* Kattner, Ellen: ''The Social Structure of Maliku (Minicoy).'' In: ''International Institute of Asian Studies (IIAS) Newsletter''. Nr. 10, 1996, S. 19–20. (Online at http://www.maldivesroyalfamily.com/minicoy_kattner.shtml).
* Kattner, Ellen: ''Bodu Valu – Big Ponds: Traditional Water Management and its socio-cosmic Implications in Minicoy/Maliku, an Indian Ocean island''. In: Ohlig, Christoph (ed.) ''Antike Zisternen''. Publikationen der Deutschen Wasserhistorischen Gesellschaft, 9. Norderstedt: Books on Demand GmbH, 2007, pp.&nbsp;145–172.
* Kattner, Ellen: ''Bodu Valu – Big Ponds: Traditional Water Management and its socio-cosmic Implications in Minicoy/Maliku, an Indian Ocean island''. In: Ohlig, Christoph (ed.) ''Antike Zisternen''. Publikationen der Deutschen Wasserhistorischen Gesellschaft, 9. Norderstedt: Books on Demand GmbH, 2007, pp.&nbsp;145–172.
* [[Xavier Romero-Frias]], The Maldive Islanders, A Study of the Popular Culture of an Ancient Ocean Kingdom. Barcelona 1999, {{ISBN|84-7254-801-5}}
* [[Xavier Romero-Frias]], The Maldive Islanders, A Study of the Popular Culture of an Ancient Ocean Kingdom. Barcelona 1999, {{ISBN|84-7254-801-5}}
* Divehi Tārīkhah Au Alikameh. Divehi Bahāi Tārikhah Khidmaiykurā Qaumī Markazu. Reprint 1958 edn. Male’ 1990.
* Divehi Tārīkhah Au Alikameh. Divehi Bahāi Tārikhah Khidmaiykurā Qaumī Markazu. Reprint 1958 edn. Male' 1990.
* Divehiraajjege Jōgrafīge Vanavaru. Muhammadu Ibrahim Lutfee. G.Sōsanī.
* Divehiraajjege Jōgrafīge Vanavaru. Muhammadu Ibrahim Lutfee. G.Sōsanī.
* "The Encyclopaedia of Islam", new edition, Index Volume, Fascicule 2, Glossary and Index of Terms, Bill, 2006, LARGE book-size paperback, 592 pages, {{ISBN|978-90-04-15610-4}}.
* "The Encyclopaedia of Islam", new edition, Index Volume, Fascicule 2, Glossary and Index of Terms, Bill, 2006, LARGE book-size paperback, 592 pages, {{ISBN|978-90-04-15610-4}}.
*Das, Nrupal: Minicoy Island: Beaches, Culture and People of Minicoy, Lakshadweep Islands. 2018, Kindle, 37 Pages (Available Online - [https://www.amazon.in/Minicoy-Island-Beaches-Culture-Lakshadweep-ebook/dp/B07KGCVD7T/ref=asap_bc?ie=UTF8 Minicoy, Lakshadwweep Islands])
*Das, Nrupal: Minicoy Island: Beaches, Culture and People of Minicoy, Lakshadweep Islands. 2018, Kindle, 37 Pages (Available Online – [https://www.amazon.in/Minicoy-Island-Beaches-Culture-Lakshadweep-ebook/dp/B07KGCVD7T/ref=asap_bc?ie=UTF8 Minicoy, Lakshadwweep Islands])


==External links==
==External links==
{{Commons category|Minicoy Island}}
{{Commons category|Minicoy Island}}
* [https://swastikholiday.com/blog/minicoy-tourism-guide/ Minicoy Tourism Guide]
* [http://www.webindia123.com/territories/lakshadweep/land/islands3.htm#MI Information about Minicoy Island]
* [http://www.webindia123.com/territories/lakshadweep/land/islands3.htm#MI Information about Minicoy Island]
* [http://www.tamilnet.com/art.html?catid=79&artid=31154 A Language dies in India]
* [http://www.tamilnet.com/art.html?catid=79&artid=31154 A Language dies in India]
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[[Category:Minicoy| ]]
[[Category:Minicoy| ]]
[[Category:Cities and towns in Lakshadweep]]
[[Category:Islands of Lakshadweep]]
[[Category:Islands of Lakshadweep]]
[[Category:India–Maldives border]]
[[Category:India–Maldives border]]
[[Category:Islands of India]]
[[Category:Populated places in India]]
[[Category:Islands of the Bay of Bengal]]

Latest revision as of 08:18, 1 November 2024

Minicoy
Minicoy is located in India
Minicoy
Minicoy
Minicoy is located in Lakshadweep
Minicoy
Minicoy
Geography
LocationArabian Sea
ArchipelagoLakshadweep
Adjacent toIndian Ocean
Total islands1
Major islands
  • Minicoy
Area4.801 km2 (1.854 sq mi)[1]
Highest elevation2 m (7 ft)
Administration
TerritoryUnion territory of Lakshadweep
DistrictLakshadweep
Island groupMinicoy Islands
Tehsils of IndiaMinicoy Tehsil
Subdivisions of IndiaMinicoy Ward
Largest settlementMinicoy Bada (pop. 9000)
Demographics
Population10,700 (2014)
Pop. density2,229/km2 (5773/sq mi)
Ethnic groupsMalayali, Mahls
Additional information
Time zone
PIN682559
Telephone code04892
ISO codeIN-LD-09[2]
Official websitewww.lakshadweep.gov.in
Literacy84.4%
Avg. summer temperature32.0 °C (89.6 °F)
Avg. winter temperature28.0 °C (82.4 °F)

Minicoy, locally known as Maliku (IPA: [məliku]), is an island in Lakshadweep, India. Along with Viringili, it is on Maliku atoll, the southernmost atoll of Lakshadweep archipelago. Administratively, it is a census town in the Indian union territory of Lakshadweep. The island is situated 425 km west of Trivandrum, the capital city of Kerala.

Etymology

[edit]

Minicoy is known as Maliku in the local language, Dhivehi, which is also the national and official language of the Republic of Maldives. The language is a descendant of Elu Prakrit and is closely related to the Sinhala language, but not mutually intelligible with it. However, the Lakhshadweep Administration refers to Dhivehi as Mahl. This is due to a misunderstanding on the part of a British civil servant who came to Minicoy in the 1900s during the time of the British Raj. The official asked a local what his language was and he replied "Dhivehi-bas". The official looked confused as he had never heard of this language. Noticing this, the islander said "Mahaldeebu" as he knew that locals on the subcontinent referred to the kingdom to the south (the Maldives) by that name. The civil servant then official recorded the language of Minicoy as Mahl.[3]

The ancient name of Maliku was Mahiladū meaning women's island. Mahiladū derives from Elu Prakrit term Mahila du, which literally means woman-island.[4] However, the name Maliku is thought to have been derived from the Arab trader's term for the island, Jazirat al-Maliku[dubious – discuss] ('the island of the king'). [5][page needed]

Minicoy islanders have long settled in the Nicobar Islands across the Bay of Bengal. These settlers regularly travelled back to Minicoy. The Andaman and Nicobar Islands had a reputation in the Maldives and Minicoy of being inhabited by cannibals, and so collectively the Andaman and Nicobar groups were called "Minikaa-raajje" by Minicoy and Maldive islanders. This meant "cannibal kingdom".

A British official once asked a Minicoy islander what the name of his island was. The islander told the official that he was from Maliku but usually lived in "Minikaa-raajje" (Nicobar). The official thought Maliku and Minikaa were the same place and recorded the name of this islander's home as "Minikaa". This later became anglicised as Minicoy.[3]

Little did this islander know that as a result of this cross-cultural exchange, his home would forever be called by a name that sounded like "cannibal" in his own language.

Geography

[edit]
The islet of Viringili located at the southwestern end of Minicoy's reef where formerly the lepers of the island were banished.

Minicoy is the second largest and the southernmost among the islands of the Lakshadweep archipelago. It is located 201 km to the south-southwest of Kalpeni, at the southern end of the Nine Degree Channel and 125 km to the north of Thuraakunu, Maldives, at the northern end of the Eight Degree Channel. The atoll is 10 km in length, having a maximum breadth of about 6 km. The closest geographic feature is the Investigator Bank, a submerged shoal located 31 km to the northeast.[6]

It is located 400 km west off the coast of Trivandrum. The atoll contains two islands. The main island is located on the eastern and southeastern side of the lagoon, along the reef fringe. It measures about 10 km from its northern end to its southernmost point and it is about 1 km wide in its southern half, while the northern half is a narrow sandspit, often less than 100 m wide. Minicoy is almost completely covered with coconut trees. One of the few landmarks of the island is the Minicoy Island Lighthouse, which was built in 1885 during the British regime.[7] On the southern side of the main island lies the uninhabited islet of Viringili (Dhivehi: ވިރިންގިލި; Malayalam: വിരിന്ഗാ, also called the Small Pox Island), measuring barely 200 m in length. Formerly the lepers of Minicoy were banished to this island where they lived in abject conditions.

Maliku Atoll has a lagoon with two entrances in its northern side, Saalu Magu on the northeast and Kandimma Magu on the northwest. Its western side is fringed by a narrow reef and coral rocks awash. The interior of the lagoon is sandy and of moderate depth, rarely reaching 4 m. It has some coral patches.

This atoll is administered under the Indian Union Territory of Lakshadweep. Nine Degree Channel separates Minicoy and the Laccadive Islands. The closest island to Minicoy is Thuraakunu in the Republic of the Maldives. Since 1956, the Indian Government has forbidden the direct travelling between the two islands despite their geographic proximity and ethnographic similarities.

Maliku Kandu is the traditional name of the broad channel between Minicoy (Maliku) and Ihavandippulhu (Haa Alif Atoll) in the Maldives. In the Admiralty Charts it is called Eight Degree Channel. Other names for this channel are Addigiri Kandu and Māmalē Kandu. It appeared in old French maps with the name Courant de Malicut.

Map of Minicoy Atoll (Maliku)

Villages

[edit]

There are total of eleven villages[8] (athiris, avah) on Minicoy Island. From north to south, they are:

  1. Kendiparty
  2. Pallessery
  3. Kudehi
  4. Funhilol
  5. Aloodi
  6. Sadivalu
  7. New Boduathiri
  8. Rammedu
  9. Boduathiri
  10. Aoumagu
  11. Bada

Climate

[edit]

Minicoy has a tropical savanna climate (Köppen climate classification Aw) with warm temperatures throughout the year. Precipitation falls during most of the year; only January to March are relatively dry.

Climate data for Minicoy (1991–2020, extremes 1901–2020)
Month Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sep Oct Nov Dec Year
Record high °C (°F) 32.9
(91.2) 		33.8
(92.8) 		34.6
(94.3) 		35.6
(96.1) 		36.7
(98.1) 		34.5
(94.1) 		33.6
(92.5) 		33.4
(92.1) 		33.2
(91.8) 		33.3
(91.9) 		33.2
(91.8) 		33.3
(91.9) 		36.7
(98.1)
Mean daily maximum °C (°F) 31.3
(88.3) 		31.7
(89.1) 		32.6
(90.7) 		33.3
(91.9) 		32.9
(91.2) 		31.5
(88.7) 		31.0
(87.8) 		31.1
(88.0) 		31.1
(88.0) 		31.2
(88.2) 		31.2
(88.2) 		31.3
(88.3) 		31.7
(89.1)
Daily mean °C (°F) 27.8
(82.0) 		28.2
(82.8) 		29.2
(84.6) 		30.1
(86.2) 		29.8
(85.6) 		28.6
(83.5) 		28.2
(82.8) 		28.3
(82.9) 		28.3
(82.9) 		28.2
(82.8) 		28.1
(82.6) 		28.1
(82.6) 		28.6
(83.4)
Mean daily minimum °C (°F) 24.3
(75.7) 		24.7
(76.5) 		25.7
(78.3) 		26.8
(80.2) 		26.8
(80.2) 		25.8
(78.4) 		25.4
(77.7) 		25.5
(77.9) 		25.5
(77.9) 		25.2
(77.4) 		25.0
(77.0) 		24.7
(76.5) 		25.4
(77.7)
Record low °C (°F) 17.8
(64.0) 		17.2
(63.0) 		19.1
(66.4) 		20.7
(69.3) 		19.7
(67.5) 		20.4
(68.7) 		19.7
(67.5) 		19.7
(67.5) 		20.3
(68.5) 		19.4
(66.9) 		17.2
(63.0) 		16.7
(62.1) 		16.7
(62.1)
Average rainfall mm (inches) 35.9
(1.41) 		20.9
(0.82) 		24.2
(0.95) 		52.6
(2.07) 		163.3
(6.43) 		291.3
(11.47) 		260.6
(10.26) 		208.8
(8.22) 		162.6
(6.40) 		172.6
(6.80) 		143.1
(5.63) 		98.7
(3.89) 		1,634.7
(64.36)
Average rainy days 2.1 1.2 1.6 3.2 9.3 16.2 14.9 11.9 10.6 10.1 7.9 4.4 93.5
Average relative humidity (%) (at 17:30 IST) 72 71 71 72 76 81 81 80 79 79 78 75 76
Mean monthly sunshine hours 269.7 248.6 272.8 261.0 217.0 138.0 151.9 192.2 195.0 229.4 219.0 260.4 2,655
Mean daily sunshine hours 8.7 8.8 8.8 8.7 7.0 4.6 4.9 6.2 6.5 7.4 7.3 8.4 7.3
Source 1: India Meteorological Department (sun, 1971–2000)[9][10][11][12]
Source 2: Tokyo Climate Center (mean temperatures 1991–2020)[13]

History

[edit]

Buddhist era

[edit]

See also: Buddhism in South Asia

There are remains in an area of the island known as "Salliballu" dating back from Minicoy's Buddhist past, about 800 years ago. The most conspicuous archaeological sites are two mounds or large heaps of ruins belonging to a stupa and another related structure. These sites were investigated by the Archaeological Survey of India in the 1980s. The excavations yielded few discoveries, for the sites had been much damaged and vandalized previously. Still, a much-damaged large Buddha head was found buried in the area. The name "Salliballu" originated in the local name for the "Christian cross", because the locals say that an inscription with a "cross" was found there. But it is likely that, coming from a Buddhist site, it was a cross-shaped mandala or visvavajra, like those often found on inscriptions in archaeological remains in the Maldives.[14]

Local oral tradition has it that Kamborani and Kohoratukamana, two princesses from the Maldives, came to Maliku. When they arrived, the Tivaru, who had been living there before, left the island for Sri Lanka. The Kamborani's descendants are the bodun (land and shipowners) and the descendants of Kohoratukamana are the niamin (captains). The other status groups are made up of the descendants of their crew.[15]

Colonial era

[edit]

Under suzerainty of East India Company

[edit]
See also: Kolathunadu of Kerala, Company rule in India, British India, and History of the Maldives

Until the 16th century, the Laccadives was under the suzerainty of the Kolathiri Raja of Chirakkal in what is now the Indian state of Kerala. With the Portuguese ascendancy in the region, it became necessary for the Kolathiri to transfer sovereignty of the islands to their hereditary admiral, the Ali Raja of Kolathunadu (Cannanore).

However, the kings and queens of the Maldives also issued edicts addressed to the subjects in their realm Malikaddu Midhemedhu. This meant "Between Maliku (Minicoy) and Addu". Previously Addu was the southernmost island in the dominions of the Maldive kings and was in Addu Atoll. A 1696 CE grant issued under the Seal of the King Siri Kula Ran Mani (Sultan Mohamed IV) of the Maldives, regarding the building and upkeep of a mosque in Finey at Thiladhummathi Atoll in Maldives, referred to him as Malikaddu Midhemedhu ekanuonna mi korhu anikaneh nethee korhu which meant "Sole Sovereign with no other over what lies between Maliku and Addu".

Under direct rule of British India

[edit]

See also: British raj, Arakkal kingdom of Kerala, and Ali Raja

In 1857, suzerainty over Minicoy transferred from the East India Company to the Indian Empire when Queen Victoria was proclaimed Empress. On 18 December 1790 Maliku was surrendered to the Court of Directors of the British East India Company by the Ali Raja Cannanore, Junumabe Ali-Adi Raja Bibi II. The Ali Raja was allowed to administer Maliku in return for a tribute to the East India Company. She continued to dispute the transfer of sovereignty but in 1824, her successor, Mariambe Ali-Adi Raja Bibi made a formal written recognition of the suzerainty of the East India Company over Maliku (Minicoy). She and her successors, however, continued the tributary arrangement. On 27 July 1795, the Governor General of the Presidency of Madras under whose jurisdiction Minicoy was, abolished Junumabe Ali Adi-Raja Bibi's monopoly over coir trade. In 1905 under the heavy burden of debts to the Empire, Mohamed Ali-Adi Raja of Cannanore agreed to surrender sovereignty and control over Minicoy. He died before the formal transfer. After an attempt to backtrack, his successor Imbicchi Ali-Adi Raja Bibi finally signed over Minicoy to the Emperor Edward VII on 9 February 1909, backdated to 1 July 1905. Following this, Minicoy was annexed to the District of Malabar.

After independence of India

[edit]

1956 plebiscite and integration with India

[edit]

See also: Political integration of India

After the independence of India in August 1947, the possessions of the Emperor of India passed to either the Indian Union or Pakistan according to an agreed demarcation line. The rulers of the princely state of British India had the choice of acceding to either India or Pakistan. Since Minicoy was earlier in a sovereign possession of the British Raj, India held a plebiscite in Minicoy in 1956 to determine whether or not the people of Minicoy wished to join the Indian Union. A referendum was held and an absolute majority of the Minicoy decided to join the Indian Union.

Union Territory of India

[edit]

See also: States and union territories of India

After the plebiscite, on 1 November 1956, Minicoy was incorporated into the Union Territory of Laccadive, Minicoy, and Aminidivi Islands, renamed Lakshadweep in 1973. At this time, the Maldives was still not independent from the British.

India-Maldives maritime treaty

[edit]

See also: Exclusive economic zone of India and India–Maldives relations
Worm's-eye view of the Lighthouse in Minicoy island

In December 1976, India and the Maldives signed a maritime boundary treaty whereby Minicoy was placed on the Indian side of the boundary.[16] India and Maldives officially and amicably decided their maritime boundary in 1976,[17] in 1982 when the brother of the President of Maldives Maumoon Abdul Gayoom, Abdulla Hameed declared that the neighbouring Minicoy Island that belonged to India were a part of Maldives; Maldives quickly and officially denied that it was laying claim to the island.[17][18]

India and Maldives continue to enjoy friendly relations and a strategic partnership in economic and military fields.[19][17] India continues to contribute to the security of the island nation of Maldives.[17][20]

Demographics

[edit]

Religion in Minicoy Island (2011)[21]

  Islam (96.58%)
  Hinduism (2.5%)
  Christianity (0.78%)
  Others (0.1%)
  Not Stated (0.04%)

As of 2011 India census,[21] the island of Minicoy had a population of 10,447. Males constitute 51% of the population and females 49%. Minicoy has an average literacy rate of 83.93%, higher than the national average of 74.04%: male literacy is 85.82%, and female literacy is 81.93%. In Minicoy, 9.6% of the population is under 6 years of age.

Transportation

[edit]

Sea

[edit]

MV Corals, MV Lagoons, MV Amindivi, MV Arabian Sea, MV Bharat Seema, MV Dweep Setu, MV Kavaratti, MV Lakshadweep Sea and MV Minicoy are the important passenger ships connecting Lakshadweep with Kerala. The passage takes between 14 and 20 hours.[22]

The Lakshadweep authorities are seeking an opportunity to invest in Port City of Kerala Kollam. They are ready to invest in a passenger terminal with dormitory facilities and an office to guide the people of Minicoy reaching Kollam Port.[23] Traditionally, Lakshadweep's connections with the mainland have been through Kollam, Kochi and Beypore ports. But Minicoy, a small atoll at the southernmost end of the archipelago, is closer to Kollam than to either Kochi or Beypore.[24]

Air

[edit]

Agatti Airport is the only civilian airport in Lakshadweep. Helicopter transfer is available from Agatti to Minicoy throughout the year. The flight from Cochin to Agatti takes approximately one hour thirty minutes. Flights operate six days a week.

On 18 July 2024, the Government of India had cleared the proposal to develop an airport at Minicoy Island as a tri-service military base with a civilian air enclave. The airbase will be capable of operating fighter jets, long-range UAVs and military transport aircraft along with commercial flights. The airbase will be located near the recently commissioned naval base, INS Jatayu. The project is led by the Indian Air Force and will be used by all the branches of the Armed Forces and the Indian Coast Guard.[25][26][27]

Notable people

[edit]

See also

[edit]
[edit]
  • Satellite picture of Minicoy
    Satellite picture of Minicoy
  • Map
    Map

References

[edit]
  1. ^ "Islandwise Area and Population – 2011 Census" (PDF). Government of Lakshadweep. Archived from the original (PDF) on 22 July 2016.
  2. ^ Registration Plate Numbers added to ISO Code
  3. ^ a b "Maldives Royal Family Official Website: Majid's Pages- Minicoy Island Website".
  4. ^ Asianet News – മിനികോയ് ദ്വീപ്‌ അകലങ്ങളിലെ ഇന്ത്യ
  5. ^ Lutfy, Mohamed Ibrahim. Thaareekhuge therein Lakshadheebu
  6. ^ Hydrographic Description (Indian Ocean Pilot)
  7. ^ "Minicoy". U.T. Administration Of Lakshadweep. Retrieved 27 January 2024.
  8. ^ "Minicoy Island". Official Website of Minicoy Island, Lakshadweep. Retrieved 1 August 2016.
  9. ^ "Climatological Tables of Observatories in India 1991-2020" (PDF). India Meteorological Department. Retrieved 8 April 2024.
  10. ^ "Station: Minicoy Climatological Table 1981–2010" (PDF). Climatological Normals 1981–2010. India Meteorological Department. January 2015. pp. 495–496. Archived from the original (PDF) on 5 February 2020. Retrieved 29 February 2020.
  11. ^ "Extremes of Temperature & Rainfall for Indian Stations (Up to 2012)" (PDF). India Meteorological Department. December 2016. p. M113. Archived from the original (PDF) on 5 February 2020. Retrieved 29 February 2020.
  12. ^ "Table 3 Monthly mean duration of Sun Shine (hours) at different locations in India" (PDF). Daily Normals of Global & Diffuse Radiation (1971–2000). India Meteorological Department. December 2016. p. M-3. Archived from the original (PDF) on 5 February 2020. Retrieved 1 March 2020.
  13. ^ "Normals Data: Minicoy – India Latitude: 8.30°N Longitude: 73.15°E Height: 0 (m)". Japan Meteorological Agency. Archived from the original on 1 March 2020. Retrieved 1 March 2020.
  14. ^ Xavier Romero-Frias, The Maldive Islanders, A Study of the Popular Culture of an Ancient Ocean Kingdom. Barcelona 1999
  15. ^ Ellen Kattner, The Social Structure of Maliku (Minicoy), listed below (online).
  16. ^ "India–Maldives: Agreement between India and the Maldives on Maritime Boundary in the Arabian Sea and Related Matters", in Jonathan I. Charney and Lewis M. Alexander (eds., 1998). International Maritime Boundaries (Leiden: Martinus Nijhoff Publishers, ISBN 978-90-411-0345-1) pp. 1389–1399.
  17. ^ a b c d "Maldives, Sri Lanka and the "India Factor"". Himal South Asia Magazine. Archived from the original on 29 May 2008. Retrieved 5 June 2008.
  18. ^ Ramesh Trivedi (2007). India's Relations with her Neighbours (Isha Books, ISBN 978-81-8205-438-7) p. 177.
  19. ^ "china – India relations". Library of Congress Country Studies. Retrieved 5 June 2008.
  20. ^ Devin T. Hagerty (2005). South Asia in World Politics. Rowman and Littlefield. pp. 102–103. ISBN 0-7425-2587-2.
  21. ^ a b "Minicoy Island population". Census India 2011. Retrieved 15 January 2024.
  22. ^ "How to reach the Union territory of Lakshadweep". lakshadweep.nic.in. Archived from the original on 31 December 2014. Retrieved 27 August 2014.
  23. ^ "Lakshadweep keen on investing in Kollam port". The Hindu. 7 December 2009. Retrieved 27 August 2014.
  24. ^ "Passenger Ship Service Likely between Kollam and Minicoy". The New Indian Express. Archived from the original on 25 June 2014. Retrieved 27 August 2014.
  25. ^ Gupta, Shobhit (9 January 2024). "India plans new airport at Lakshadweep's Minicoy amid row with Maldives". Hindustan Times. Retrieved 27 January 2024.
  26. ^ "Amid rising Chinese activities, India clears major plans to build two military airfields in Lakshadweep". The Economic Times. 18 July 2024. ISSN 0013-0389. Retrieved 19 July 2024.
  27. ^ "New defence airfield at Minicoy gets nod as govt expands Lakshadweep military presence". The Times of India. ISSN 0971-8257. Retrieved 19 July 2024.

Bibliography

[edit]
  • Bell, H.C.P.: The Maldive Islands, An account of the physical features, History, Inhabitants, Productions and Trade. Colombo 1883.
  • Ellis, R.H.: A Short Account of the Laccadive Islands and Minicoy. Government Press, Madras, 1924.
  • Kattner, Ellen: The Social Structure of Maliku (Minicoy). In: International Institute of Asian Studies (IIAS) Newsletter. Nr. 10, 1996, S. 19–20. (Online at http://www.maldivesroyalfamily.com/minicoy_kattner.shtml).
  • Kattner, Ellen: Bodu Valu – Big Ponds: Traditional Water Management and its socio-cosmic Implications in Minicoy/Maliku, an Indian Ocean island. In: Ohlig, Christoph (ed.) Antike Zisternen. Publikationen der Deutschen Wasserhistorischen Gesellschaft, 9. Norderstedt: Books on Demand GmbH, 2007, pp. 145–172.
  • Xavier Romero-Frias, The Maldive Islanders, A Study of the Popular Culture of an Ancient Ocean Kingdom. Barcelona 1999, ISBN 84-7254-801-5
  • Divehi Tārīkhah Au Alikameh. Divehi Bahāi Tārikhah Khidmaiykurā Qaumī Markazu. Reprint 1958 edn. Male' 1990.
  • Divehiraajjege Jōgrafīge Vanavaru. Muhammadu Ibrahim Lutfee. G.Sōsanī.
  • "The Encyclopaedia of Islam", new edition, Index Volume, Fascicule 2, Glossary and Index of Terms, Bill, 2006, LARGE book-size paperback, 592 pages, ISBN 978-90-04-15610-4.
  • Das, Nrupal: Minicoy Island: Beaches, Culture and People of Minicoy, Lakshadweep Islands. 2018, Kindle, 37 Pages (Available Online – Minicoy, Lakshadwweep Islands)
[edit]
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