The Chief of Staff of the Southern Naval Command has recently announced that the Navy is establishing a detachment in Bitra Island, stating that the process is "more or less completed".
Bitra Island is located in the northern region of Lakshadweep, situated in the Arabian Sea. It holds the title of the smallest inhabited island within this territory, with a land area measuring only 0.105 square kilometers.
Geographically, it spans a length of 0.57 kilometers and a width of 0.28 kilometers at its broadest point. Despite its diminutive land area, Bitra boasts a lagoon area that extends to 45.61 square kilometers.
On the island, there is a small shrine dedicated to Malik Mulla, an old Arab saint believed to be buried there. This shrine serves as a pilgrimage site for residents of other islands.
According to the 2011 census, Bitra Island has a population of 271 individuals, reflecting its small community size.
The climatic conditions of Bitra Island resemble those of Kerala. The hottest period occurs from March to May, with temperatures ranging from 25°C to 35°C and humidity levels between 70 to 76 percent throughout most of the year.
Historically, the island was covered with dense shrubs and served as a breeding ground for seabirds. However, in the early 19th century, human activity led to the departure of these birds from the island.
Bitra Island holds strategic significance for India due to its location in the Arabian Sea. With the establishment of the naval detachment, it will become the third island in the Lakshadweep archipelago with a defense presence. The other two Indian naval bases are INS Dweeprakshak, located in Kavaratti, the capital of the Union Territory, and INS Jatayu in Minicoy.
Q1. What is the significance of Bitra Island for India?
Answer: Bitra Island is strategically important due to its location in the Arabian Sea, enhancing India's defense capabilities with its new naval detachment.
Q2. How large is Bitra Island in terms of land area?
Answer: Bitra Island has a land area of only 0.105 square kilometers, making it the smallest inhabited island in Lakshadweep.
Q3. What is the climate like on Bitra Island?
Answer: The climate of Bitra Island is similar to Kerala's, with temperatures ranging from 25°C to 35°C and high humidity throughout the year.
Q4. Who is Malik Mulla?
Answer: Malik Mulla is an old Arab saint believed to be buried on Bitra Island, and his shrine is a pilgrimage site for locals from other islands.
Q5. What is the population of Bitra Island?
Answer: According to the 2011 census, Bitra Island has a population of 271 residents, highlighting its small community.
Question 1: What is the area of Bitra Island?
A) 0.105 sq.km
B) 0.57 sq.km
C) 45.61 sq.km
D) 0.28 sq.km
Correct Answer: A
Question 2: Which saint's shrine is located on Bitra Island?
A) Malik Mulla
B) Saint Thomas
C) Saint John
D) Malik Nabi
Correct Answer: A
Question 3: What is the strategic importance of Bitra Island?
A) Fishing hub
B) Naval detachment location
C) Tourist destination
D) Agricultural center
Correct Answer: B
Question 4: How many naval bases are in Lakshadweep?
A) One
B) Two
C) Three
D) Four
Correct Answer: B
Question 5: What is the main climate characteristic of Bitra Island?
A) Arid
B) Tropical
C) Temperate
D) Polar
Correct Answer: B
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