Maldive Islands
a chain of 17 coral islets (atolls) in the Indian Ocean, Indian Ocean , about 300 miles from the S. E. coast of Hindustan, and 500 miles W. of Ceylon; lat. 0° 45' and 7° 6' N., lon. 72° 48 and lon. 72° 48' and 73° 48' E.; pop., estimated, about 50,000.
They are divided into groups, separated by narrow channels, which form safe harbors for small vessels. They are seldom visited by Europeans, the climate being intensely hot and unhealthy. Products, millet, fruit, and poultry. The islands carry on a considerable trade with each other, and also with Hindustan and Sumatra. The principal island is Mali. is Mali .
It is the residence of the Sultan, who pays an annual tribute to the British government at Ceylon.