Lakshadweep is situated about 406 kilometres away from Kerala’s coast. Interestingly, at the time of independence, Lakshadweep was not initially a part of India. 
 

Lakshadweep became a part of India post-independence due to its geographic separation from the mainland. 
 

During the partition, Pakistan wanted to include princely states and Lakshadweep into Pakistan. However, due to its geographical location, a confusion remained regarding its status
 

During the partition when no specific claims were made over Lakshadweep, Pakistan took initiative by sending a warship from Karachi in an attempt to capture the area.
 

Recognizing the situation, Sardar Vallabhai Patel, took steps to unify the princely states, and directed the Indian Army towards Lakshadweep. 
 

India’s swift action led to reaching Lakshadweep before Pakistan, and the Indian flag was raised. 
 

Lakshadweep, comprising 36 islands, with a total are of 32.62 square kilometres, became a Union Territory of India in 1956.