In the wake of anti-India remarks made by some Maldivian ministers, the Indian Chamber of Commerce (ICC) has called upon all tourism and trade associations to cease promoting the Maldives. ICC Chairman, Subhash Goyal, issued a statement urging patriotic action for the larger national interest.
Several online travel companies, including EaseMyTrip, have already halted flights to the Maldives. Despite Indians being a significant source of foreign exchange and job creation in the Maldives, Goyal urged diverting inquiries to Lakshadweep and Andaman and Nicobar Islands, suggesting they are superior alternatives.
Goyal also appealed to Indian carriers operating in the Maldives to suspend operations and consider Lakshadweep islands under the Udaan Scheme. MakeMyTrip reported a 3400% surge in searches for Lakshadweep following Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s recent visit.
Amid the India-Maldives row, the Maldivian government distanced itself from the derogatory remarks, stating they are personal opinions. On Sunday, Maldivian authorities suspended three ministers for their anti-India remarks.
