Indian navy wants to take over 2 islands popular with tourists in Goa for security reasons

Indian navy wants to take over 2 islands in Goa

PANAJI, India — The Indian navy plans to take over two scenic islands popular with tourists in Goa for scuba diving and beach parties because of security threats.

The move is being opposed by the tourism industry and the state government, which is planning to set up an amusement park on the islands.

Goa, on India’s west coast, is known for its sandy beaches and attracts about 2.5 million tourists annually, including half a million foreigners, mostly from Britain, Israel and Russia.

Rear Admiral Sudhir Pillai said securing the two islands, Grande and Pequeno, was important for the safety of the only international airport in the state, which is used by tourists.