India Strengthens Maritime Ties: Modi Handovers Indigenous Patrol Vessel to Seychelles
In a significant step towards bolstering maritime security in the Indian Ocean region, Prime Minister Narendra Modi formally handed over a Made-in-India patrol vessel to the Republic of Seychelles. The ceremony, held in New Delhi, underscores India's commitment to enhancing cooperation with friendly nations in the Indian Ocean littoral.
The vessel, built by an Indian shipyard under the 'Make in India' initiative, is designed for coastal surveillance and anti-piracy operations. It will enable the Seychelles Coast Guard to better monitor its exclusive economic zone and combat illegal fishing, drug trafficking, and other maritime threats.
PM Modi, in his address, highlighted the importance of a safe and secure Indian Ocean for regional prosperity. He reiterated India's role as a net security provider in the region and its dedication to capacity building of partner countries. The handover is part of a broader defence cooperation agreement between the two nations, which includes training programmes and joint exercises.
Seychelles President Wavel Ramkalawan, who received the vessel on behalf of his country, expressed gratitude for India's timely assistance. He noted that the patrol vessel will significantly enhance Seychelles' maritime domain awareness and response capabilities.
This development is seen as a strategic move to strengthen India's ties with island nations in the Indian Ocean, countering growing influence from other powers. The vessel, named 'PS Zoroaster', is equipped with modern navigation and communication systems, and can operate in shallow waters.
India has been actively pursuing a policy of maritime cooperation with countries like Mauritius, Sri Lanka, and the Maldives, offering patrol vessels and training. The handover to Seychelles is the latest in a series of such transfers, reflecting New Delhi's focus on building a stable and cooperative security architecture in the region.
