PM Modi Bolsters Maritime Security by Handing Over Patrol Vessel to Seychelles
Prime Minister Narendra Modi strengthened India's strategic defense partnership with Seychelles by gifting an India-built Fast Patrol Vessel and other utility equipment. The visit, timed with Seychelles' Golden Jubilee, underscores a commitment to maritime security and regional stability under Vision MAHASAGAR.
Highlights
- •PM Narendra Modi handed over the India-built Fast Patrol Vessel PS LESPWAR to Seychelles.
- •The handover supports Seychelles' maritime surveillance and Exclusive Economic Zone (EEZ) patrol capabilities.
- •The package also included six ambulances, 10 utility vehicles, and five laser radial boats.
- •The visit marks the Prime Minister's second official State Visit to Seychelles for its Golden Jubilee celebrations.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi has officially handed over an India-built Fast Patrol Vessel (FPV), named PS LESPWAR, to the island nation of Seychelles. This significant diplomatic gesture, which took place during a ceremony at the Seychelles Coast Guard Base in Victoria, aims to bolster the country's maritime security infrastructure and enhance its surveillance capabilities within its Exclusive Economic Zone (EEZ).
The transfer of this state-of-the-art vessel, manufactured by Goa Shipyard Limited, marks a pivotal moment in the bilateral defense partnership between the two nations. Beyond the Fast Patrol Vessel, Prime Minister Modi also presented Seychelles with a range of vital equipment, including six ambulances, 10 utility vehicles, and five laser radial boats. These contributions are intended to support the local development and security frameworks of the island country.
Strengthening Strategic Maritime Security and Bilateral Ties
The handover ceremony was attended by Seychelles President Patrick Herminie, highlighting the high-level commitment to this enduring partnership. According to the Ministry of External Affairs, this initiative aligns with India’s Vision MAHASAGAR, which seeks to promote peace, stability, and collective security throughout the Indian Ocean region. By enhancing the operational capacity of the Seychelles Coast Guard, the equipment facilitates better management of regional maritime challenges.
Prime Minister Modi visited Victoria as the Guest of Honour for the Golden Jubilee National Day celebrations, marking his second official State Visit to the country. The event included formal proceedings, such as the playing of national anthems and a ceremonial Guard of Honour. Cultural elements also played a key role, with performances of the traditional Seychellois moutya dance alongside a Kutch folk dance performed by a visiting group from the Indian diaspora, symbolizing the deep-rooted cultural connections shared by the two nations.
This engagement follows a recent visit by President Herminie to India, underscoring the consistent growth of the relationship. As noted by the Office of the President of Seychelles, India is considered a cornerstone development partner, offering sustained support across diverse sectors including healthcare, infrastructure, education, and community-level initiatives. Since Seychelles achieved independence in 1976, this partnership has remained a critical component of its national development, with both governments continuing to prioritize regional stability and long-term security in the Indian Ocean.
