Are you sure you aren't confusing the Lakshadweep (Laccadive Islands)--which is an union territory of India, as being part of the Maldives. The Lakshadweep lie north of the Maldives, and although part of the same geologic formation, are actually part of India. The northernmost island of the Maldives, and the closest point to New Delhi, is Thuraakunu island (7°06'22.0"N), at a distance of 2,434 km (1,512 mi) from the Indian capital. Sri Lanka, on the other hand, lies further north, approx. 2,110 km (1,310 mi) at its closest point from New Delhi. This point (9°49'23.5"N) is near the northern tip of the island, near the port of Kankesanturai.