Explanations:
To understand the correct answer, it is essential to know the geographical and administrative context of the Indian Union Territories. India has several Union Territories, which are governed directly by the Union Government. These territories do not have their own state government and are administered by a Lieutenant Governor appointed by the President of India.
Lakshadweep is a group of islands located in the Arabian Sea, off the coast of the Indian state of Kerala. It is the smallest Union Territory of India in terms of area and population. The islands are situated to the west of the Indian mainland, making them a significant part of India's western maritime boundary. The name "Lakshadweep" means "a hundred thousand islands" in Sanskrit, although the actual number of islands is much smaller.
The Andaman and Nicobar Islands, another Union Territory, are located in the Bay of Bengal, to the east of India. This geographical distinction is crucial for identifying the correct answer. The Andaman and Nicobar Islands are much farther from the Indian mainland and are not located to the west.
Sri Lanka, while being a neighboring country to India, is not a Union Territory. It is an independent nation located to the south of India, separated by the Palk Strait and the Gulf of Mannar. Similarly, Australia is a country located in the Southern Hemisphere, far from India, and has no administrative connection to India.
In summary, the correct answer is Lakshadweep because it is the only group of islands among the given options that is a Union Territory of India and is located to the west of the Indian mainland. Understanding the geographical and administrative status of these territories is crucial for correctly answering questions related to Indian geography and political divisions.