The "Nine Degree Channel’ is associated with which of the following?

The correct answer is Lakshadweep Island.

Lakshadweep Islands Geographical Features

The key highlighting geographical features of the Lakshadweep Islands have been listed below:

• Island Structure: The archipelago includes 12 atolls, three reefs and five submerged banks. These coral formations are part of the Chagos-Lakshadweep Ridge, an exposed undersea mountain chain.
• Subgroup Division: The territory is divided into the Amindivi Islands in the north, Laccadive Islands in the central region separated by the 11th parallel north, and Minicoy south of the 9° Channel.
• Important Channels: The Nine Degree Channel separates Minicoy Island from the main Lakshadweep group, while the Eight Degree Channel lies between Minicoy and the Maldives, making these channels strategically important sea routes in the Arabian Sea.
• Topography and Soil: The islands are flat and rarely exceed five meters above sea level. Soil is sandy and derived from coral debris, making agriculture limited and increasing vulnerability to sea-level rise.
• Lagoon and Marine Area: Though land area is small, the lagoon area covers 4,200 km², supporting fisheries and tourism. The Exclusive Economic Zone of 400,000 km² provides significant marine resource potential.