South
Explanation
The geographical positioning of island archipelagos in the Arabian Sea and the Indian Ocean.
Geographical Analysis:
- Lakshadweep Islands: This group of islands lies off the southwestern coast of India. Minicoy is the southernmost island of the Lakshadweep archipelago.
- The Maldives: This island nation is located in the Indian Ocean, south of the Lakshadweep group.
- Maritime Boundary: The two island groups are separated by the Eight Degree Channel. This channel lies between Minicoy (Lakshadweep) to the north and the Maldives to the south.
Key Takeaway: The Eight Degree Channel separates the Lakshadweep islands (specifically Minicoy) from the Maldives, placing the Maldives to the south of Lakshadweep.