Know why Katchatheevu Island is in news after PM Modi's Sri Lanka visit. Key facts, history, and exam relevance. Daily GK update by Atharva Examwise.
Katchatheevu Island Dispute: Why It’s Back in the News | Current Affairs March 2025
The Katchatheevu Island issue has once again made headlines in March 2025 current affairs, following Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s recent visit to Sri Lanka. Political tensions have resurfaced, with parties like Congress and DMK raising concerns over India's past decision to cede the island to Sri Lanka. For aspirants preparing for UPSC, SSC, Banking, and other exams, this is a must-know topic.
What is Katchatheevu Island?
🗺️ Location: A small uninhabited island in the Palk Strait, about 22 km northeast of Rameswaram, Tamil Nadu.
📏 Size: Approximately 285 acres.
🔥 Formation: Formed due to volcanic activity in the 14th century.
⛪ Religious Significance: Home to St. Anthony’s Church, an important pilgrimage site for Tamil fishermen.
The Historical Dispute Between India and Sri Lanka
During the British era, the island was considered part of the Madras Presidency.
Both India and Sri Lanka claimed sovereignty over it post-independence.
In 1974, under the Indira Gandhi government, a maritime boundary agreement was signed, and Katchatheevu was officially handed over to Sri Lanka.
What's the Core Issue?
Although India transferred the island, the interpretation of the 1974 agreement differs between the two countries:
India maintains that fishermen retain traditional rights to fish, dry their nets, and visit the church on the island.
Sri Lanka restricts access, leading to frequent arrests and confrontations between Sri Lankan Navy and Indian fishermen.
Why Are Political Parties Raising This Issue Now?
Tamil Nadu fishermen claim traditional fishing rights in the area and regularly face detention and harassment by the Sri Lankan Navy.
With rising tensions, opposition parties are accusing the government of failing to protect Indian fishermen.
In 2024, PM Modi reignited the issue on social media, questioning Congress's role in ceding the island, leading to a major political debate.
Key Takeaways for Exam Preparation
📍 Island Name: Katchatheevu
🌍 Location: Palk Strait (Between India and Sri Lanka)
🛕 Church: St. Anthony’s Church
📜 Agreement Year: 1974
⚖️ Dispute: Access and fishing rights post-agreement
🔁 Current Affairs Tag: Re-emerged due to PM Modi’s 2025 Sri Lanka visit
🗳️ Political Relevance: Congress vs. BJP debate, Tamil Nadu politics
📰 Tags: daily GK update, Atharva Examwise current news, competitive exam news
Why This Matters for Exams
Understanding the Katchatheevu Island dispute helps candidates prepare for questions on:
International relations (India–Sri Lanka relations)
Indian Polity (treaties and agreements)
Current Affairs for UPSC & State PSC
General Awareness for SSC, Banking & Railways
This topic is not just historical but also strategically important and continues to impact India’s foreign policy and regional politics.
📚 For more such daily GK updates and competitive exam news, visit Atharva Examwise – your trusted platform for success in UPSC, SSC, Banking, and more.
