The Union Territory was formed in 1956 and it was named Lakshadweep in 1973.

How was Lakshadweep formed?

Perhaps Lakshadweep is the only coral island chain in India. These islands were formed by the accumulation of coral on the volcanic tops of the Indian Ocean ridge, which sank below the surface millions of years ago presumably due to a rise in sea levels.

What was Lakshadweep island known as before 1973?

Formerly the Union Territory of Lakshadweep was known as Laccadive, Minicoy, and Amindivi Islands, a name that was changed to Lakshadweep by an act of Parliament in 1973. The Laccadive subgroup had been known earlier as the "Cannanore Islands" after the coastal town of Cannanore (Kannur).