From Beacons to Landmarks: India Transforms Historic Lighthouses Into 100% Solar-Powered Coastal Tourism and Maritime Heritage Hubs
Distilled Policy Brief
- India has over 11,000 kilometres of coastline and 205 lighthouses, with lighthouse tourism seeing an increase in visitors from approximately 4 lakh in 2014 to 18.63 lakh in 2024-25.
🎯 Prelims High-Yield Examination Points
India's lighthouses are 100% solar-powered; 87 AIS shore stations operate along the coast; National Maritime Heritage Complex (NMHC) is being developed in Lothal, Gujarat.
⚖️ Mains Analytical & Syllabus Linkages
Analyze how repurposing historical lighthouses into tourist destinations and maritime museums promotes coastal tourism, local employment, and preservation of India's 5,000-year-old maritime heritage.
🎯 UPSC Prelims Practice Drill
With reference to the development and transformation of lighthouses in India, consider the following statements: 1. All lighthouses across the country are now powered by solar energy, replacing traditional oil and fire sources. 2. The Directorate General of Lighthouses and Lightships (DGLL) has introduced a digital ticketing portal for lighthouse tourism. 3. India has over 20,000 kilometres of coastline and 500 operational lighthouses. Which of the statements given above are correct?
- [A] 1 and 2 only
- [B] 2 and 3 only
- [C] 1 and 3 only
- [D] 1, 2 and 3
▶ Reveal Official Answer & Analytical Explanation
Statement 1 is correct because the text notes that all of the country's lighthouses are solar-powered, replacing older methods like oil and fire. Statement 2 is correct as a digital ticketing portal has been launched under the Directorate General of Lighthouse and Lightships (DGLL). Statement 3 is incorrect because India actually has over 11,000 kilometres of coastline and 205 lighthouses, not 20,000 km and 500 lighthouses.
🏛️ Historical Twin PYQ Anchor (2021)
Consider the following statements regarding the "National Clean Air Programme (NCAP)": 1. It is implemented by the Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change. 2. Central Pollution Control Board acts as the sole regulatory executive body.