CURRENT CONTEXT : The Lakshadweep administration is considering acquiring Bitra Island for defence purposes. It would become the third defence establishment in the archipelago.

 ABOUT BITRA ISLAND

• Location: Northern region of Lakshadweep
• Smallest inhabited island in the Union Territory
• Cultural Site: Contains a shrine dedicated to Malik Mulla, an old Arab saint

 CLIMATE

• Similar to Kerala’s climate
• Hottest Period: March to May
• Temperature Range: 25°C to 35°C
• Humidity: 70%–76% throughout the year

 STRATEGIC SIGNIFICANCE

• Will become the third defence base in Lakshadweep
• Existing Naval Bases:
  • INS Dweeprakshak – Kavaratti (UT capital)
  • INS Jatayu – Minicoy