Here's why Lakhshadweep remains COVID-19 free despite soaring cases in the rest of India

Lakshadweep: Lakshadweep, India's smallest Union territory off the southwestern coast, has emerged as a shining example of Despite the surging number of COVID-19 infections, Lakshwadeep, surprisingly, has not reported s single case of the dreaded virus. 

Even as coronavirus cases rise in the rest of the country, Lakshadweep has so far been spared from featuring from the Union Government's list of COVID-19 cases. Many will be surprised to know that 8 months after the pandemic first landed on Indian shore, this Union territory, consisting of a cluster of islands, remains COVID-free.

How has Lakshadweep managed to achieve the improbable?

When the pandemic first came calling, Lakhshadweep's administration got busy imposing strict measures meant to keep the virus out. Setting an example in early preparedness, the UT also made testing mandatory for the residents before they arrive at the island, followed by a strict quarantine.

Even before the nationwide lockdown came into effect in March, the UT authorities shut its airstrip and ports to tourists. Lakshadweep residents were allowed to return only if they had a COVID-negative certificate. Those who did test positive were treated in Kerala, across the ocean.

What is next for Lakshadweep residents?

Lakshadweep has a population of nearly 64,000 and has been successful in avoiding COVID, thanks to its early preparedness. This is a very impressive feat. With the Centre announcing 'Unlock 5' guidelines to resume economic activities, the residents of the UT too are gearing up top return to their regular lives.

Several primary schools on the islands are opening and welcoming students with fresh paint and balloons after the lockdown. The Union Territory has more than 11,000 students spread across 53 schools on 10 inhabited islands.

On 30 January, India reported its first case of COVID-19 in Kerala, which rose to three cases by 3 February; all were students returning from Wuhan. The Northeast Indian state of Nagaland was the last to report cases of the contagion. 

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