1. Introduction

The visit marked an important milestone in bilateral relations, resulting in the signing of nine agreements spanning defence, digital public infrastructure, healthcare, agriculture, maritime cooperation, education and capacity building. India also announced an umbrella Line of Credit worth ₹1,250 crore to finance priority infrastructure projects in Seychelles.

As a key partner in the Western Indian Ocean, Seychelles occupies an important position in India’s maritime strategy under its Vision SAGAR (Security and Growth for All in the Region). The visit reaffirmed India’s commitment to supporting the island nation through development assistance, infrastructure financing, technology partnerships and security cooperation.

1. Intent and Origin

The agreements signed during the visit reflect the growing scope of India–Seychelles relations beyond traditional diplomatic engagement. The partnership is now focused on sustainable development, institutional strengthening and regional security.

The nine agreements include cooperation in:

• Deployment of India’s Unified Payments Interface (UPI) digital payment system. 
• Supply of affordable generic medicines under the Pradhan Mantri Bhartiya Janaushadhi Pariyojana (PMBJP). 
• Diplomatic training and capacity building. 
• Agricultural research, education and knowledge exchange. 
• Extradition of fugitives and legal cooperation. 
• Mutual recognition of Indian seafarers’ certificates. 
• A ₹1,250-crore umbrella Line of Credit for infrastructure development. 
• Peaceful uses of outer space. 
• Preparatory work for constructing a new National Hospital in Seychelles. 

These initiatives demonstrate India’s continued role as a trusted development partner while supporting Seychelles’ economic growth, healthcare infrastructure and institutional capacity.

1. Amendment

The State Visit coincided with the 50th anniversary of diplomatic relations between India and Seychelles, providing an opportunity to deepen cooperation across several sectors. To commemorate the occasion, both countries unveiled a special anniversary logo, and Prime Minister Narendra Modi was conferred Seychelles’ highest civilian honour, the “Guardian of the Blue Horizon,” in recognition of India’s enduring contribution to the country’s development.

The leaders also agreed to strengthen collaboration in the health sector through:

• Organising training programmes and exchange visits on mental health. 
• Facilitating the deployment of Indian doctors, nurses, paramedics and healthcare technicians to address medical workforce requirements in Seychelles. 
• Expanding institutional partnerships in public health through knowledge sharing and professional exchanges. 
• Supporting the construction of a modern National Hospital to improve healthcare services across the country. 

These initiatives build upon India’s long-standing assistance in healthcare, education and human resource development for Seychelles.

1. Impact

The visit delivered several tangible outcomes that reinforce bilateral cooperation in defence, humanitarian assistance and infrastructure development.

Key outcomes include:

• India gifted a Fast Patrol Vessel to enhance Seychelles’ maritime surveillance and coastal security. 
• The Seychelles Defence Force received 10 utility vehicles and five Laser Radial-class sailing boats. 
• India handed over six ambulances, 500 metric tonnes of rice and 8,500 metric tonnes of cement to support public welfare and infrastructure projects. 
• Both countries launched the commemorative logo celebrating 50 years of diplomatic relations. 
• A virtual ground-breaking ceremony was held for the Professional and Technical Education Centre, which will strengthen vocational education and skill development. 
• The refit and refurbishment of the PS Zoroaster, a Seychelles Coast Guard vessel, was completed with Indian assistance. 
• India announced the upgradation of Seychelles’ Dornier maritime surveillance aircraft with a modern glass cockpit to improve operational efficiency. 
• Seychelles formally joined the Coalition for Disaster Resilient Infrastructure (CDRI), expanding cooperation on climate resilience and disaster preparedness. 

Collectively, these initiatives enhance Seychelles’ maritime capabilities, public infrastructure, healthcare services and disaster resilience while reinforcing India’s role as a reliable security and development partner in the Indian Ocean region.

1. Conclusion

The outcomes of the State Visit demonstrate the evolution of India–Seychelles relations into a comprehensive strategic partnership based on shared security interests, sustainable development and people-centric cooperation. The introduction of UPI in Seychelles through cooperation between NPCI International Payments Limited and the Central Bank of Seychelles reflects India’s growing use of Digital Public Infrastructure (DPI) as a tool of international collaboration. Similarly, cooperation under the Jan Aushadhi programme will improve access to affordable, quality medicines.

Alongside digital connectivity, agreements on healthcare, agriculture, diplomatic training and the peaceful use of outer space strengthen institutional partnerships that will deliver long-term benefits. Combined with infrastructure financing, defence cooperation and maritime assistance, these initiatives further consolidate India’s position as a trusted partner in the Western Indian Ocean and contribute to regional stability, economic development and inclusive growth.