Amini is the first inhabited island of
Lakshadweep. It is situated at 11° 7' north latitude and 72° 44' east longitude. The island is about 3 km long and 1.6 km wide. Tropical climate prevails in this island.
This island was captured and colonized by the Portuguese in the 16th century. They wanted to learn the craft of making
coir ropes. Having failed to secure this trade the Portuguese burnt down the island and greater part of the mosques and houses. The natives retaliated by poisoning the Portuguese. Since 1799 the island had been under the British rule.
The island is densely populated. The society of Amini is divided into Tarwad, Tanakam-pranaver, Kudiatis and Melacheris. The islanders prepare superior quality of coir. Coconut cultivation and fishing are the major occupation of the islanders. Talented craftsmen of Amini can make beautiful walking sticks with tortoise and coconut shells. They have a rich tradition of folk song. They speak
Malayalam. The island is also known for its stone engravers who carve beautiful flower motifs on hard coral stone.
