Detailed project report based on desktop survey has been prepared by Telecommunications Consultants India Ltd.

The project also propose to connect Lakshadweep islands with optical fibre network. It was cleared by inter-ministerial panel Telecom Commission in November 2014.

“While accepting the need to provide robust and reliable telecom connectivity to Lakshadweep islands, Telecom Commission… has accorded an ‘in principle' approval to undertake a cost benefit analysis and feasibility study for laying submarine OFC in Lakshadweep along with validation of the estimated cost before proceeding ahead,” Prasad said.

Telecom regulator TRAI has recommended an initial plan costing about Rs 2,400 crore to connect Andaman & Nicobar Islands and Lakshadweep which at present rely on connectivity through satellites.