This Vanuatu island, which looks like a small dot on the map of the South Pacific, is now the center of attention. Courtesy of Lalit Modi, a fugitive businessman from India. He had taken refuge here. But recently, New Delhi has made final arrangements to return Lalit to his country and face the Indian judiciary.

Under pressure, Vanuatu Prime Minister Jatham Napat has ordered the cancellation of Lalit’s passport. But what is there on this island, why is this island state the choice of a millionaire fugitive businessman like Lalit Modi? Find out some surprising facts.

1. Where is Vanuatu Island?: This island has an area of ​​only 12,000 square kilometers between Fiji and Australia in the South Pacific. The capital is Port Vila.
2. History of dual sovereignty: In the 19th century, both Britain and France claimed the island as theirs. As a result, this island state was under joint Anglo-French rule for a long time. The country gained independence in 1980.
3. Fast citizenship: Vanuatu is famous for its fast citizenship. Citizenship is obtained by investing here. This is called the Citizenship by Investment or CBI program. For which you only need to invest about 150,000 dollars.
4. Why was Lalit’s passport revoked?: Lalit Modi is accused of embezzling crores of rupees and fleeing to India. But the obstacle in bringing him back to the country and facing the law is that India does not have an extradition policy with Vanuatu. Faced with criticism, the country’s Prime Minister has lifted his hand on Lalit. He has assured that they will not give shelter to any fugitive businessman.
5. Small but important impact in the Pacific region: Although small, the island is very important due to its location and strategic location. That is why China has focused on increasing infrastructure on this shelf. In turn, America and Australia are also relying on diplomatic solutions to build a countermeasure.
6. Tourist hotspot: Many international tourists come to this island every year for its active volcanoes, picturesque beaches, and blue-green waters. This is the main source of income for the residents of this island.
7. Natural disasters are frequent: One of the most disaster-prone areas in the world. Cyclones, earthquakes, and tsunamis occur from time to time. Since the land is not very high above sea level, permanent settlements are a challenge for the local residents.
8. Diversity: Such a small island, yet about 100 different languages ​​are spoken in this island nation. Traditional festivals are celebrated here with great pomp. The famous ‘bungee jumping’ is actually a modern version of land diving, an ancient tradition of this island.
9. Influence of France and Britain: Since France and Britain have been colonies for a long time, these two countries have influence in the judicial system of this country. There are many allegations of red tape and bribery in government work in this country.
10. Top of the list of happy countries: There is no special work, yet Vanuatu is at the top of the list of the happiest countries in the world.