Introductory Memo
Though tiny in size, Katchatheevu island holds major strategic and economic importance. It is located near rich fishing waters traditionally used by Tamil Nadu fishermen. Also, it occupies a position along a sensitive maritime boundary. The island is historically linked to the Ramanathapuram kingdom and later the Madras Presidency during British rule. However, it was recognised as Sri Lankan territory through the 1974 and 1976 India-Sri Lanka agreements. Since then, Katchatheevu has remained a contentious issue between both the countries. Often, it is in news over arrests of fishermen, loss of fishing rights, territorial concerns and political allegations involving Congress, DMK and BJP. Over time, the island has evolved into a larger symbol of livelihood concerns, maritime security and India’s strategic interests in the Indian Ocean Region.