The cabinet has approved the proposal for provisioning submarine optic fibre cable (OFC) connectivity between Kochi and Lakshadweep Islands entailing a cost of Rs 10.72 billion. The project entails the provision of a direct communication link through a dedicated submarine OFC between Kochi and 11 islands of Lakshadweep — Kavaratti, Kalpeni, Agati, Amini, Androth, Minicoy, Bangaram, Bitra, Chetlat, Kiltan and Kadmat. The project is expected to be completed by May 2023 and will be funded by the Universal Service Obligation Fund.