India Strengthens Seychelles' Maritime Capabilities with Made-in-India Assets
Prime Minister Narendra Modi on June 27, 2026, presented a 'Made in India' Fast Patrol Vessel (FPV), PS LESPWAR, along with six ambulances, 10 utility vehicles, and five laser radial boats to Seychelles during his official State Visit. The handover ceremony took place at the Seychelles Coast Guard Base in Victoria, with Seychelles President Patrick Herminie in attendance.
The FPV, manufactured by Goa Shipyard Limited, is intended to bolster Seychelles' maritime surveillance and Exclusive Economic Zone (EEZ) patrol capabilities. The Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) posted on X: "Together as partners. Stronger as one. In a special gesture, PM Narendra Modi handed over the 'Made in India' Fast Patrol Vessel (FPV) PS LESPWAR to President Dr. Patrick Herminie. The FPV will contribute to strengthening Seychelles' maritime surveillance and EEZ patrol capabilities."
Additional Vehicles and Boats to Support Development and Security
In addition to the patrol vessel, PM Modi handed over six ambulances, 10 utility vehicles, and five laser radial boats. The MEA added: "PM also handed over six ambulances, 10 utility vehicles and five laser radial boats, which will further contribute to the development and security of Seychelles. Guided by India's Vision MAHASAGAR, India and Seychelles continue to strengthen their robust defence partnership, contributing to security and stability in the Indian Ocean region."
PM Modi Attends Seychelles' Golden Jubilee Celebrations
The Prime Minister arrived in Victoria on Saturday afternoon to participate as the Guest of Honour in the Golden Jubilee celebrations of Seychelles' National Day, aiming to expand bilateral engagement. After the national anthems of both countries, PM Modi and President Herminie inspected a ceremonial Guard of Honour and received the military salute.
The Prime Minister observed a cultural reception featuring a traditional Seychellois moutya dance by a local troupe, followed by a performance of Nrutya, an authentic folk dance from Kutch, Gujarat, staged to welcome the dignitary. The Gujarati folk performance was presented by an 18-member group from the local Indian diaspora with roots in Kutch, highlighting shared cultural bonds.
Second Official Visit to Seychelles
This diplomatic mission marks PM Modi's second official State Visit to the island nation, following a bilateral visit by President Herminie to India earlier in 2026. The Office of the President of Seychelles stated before the visit: "India remains one of Seychelles' closest and most valued development partners, supporting numerous infrastructure, healthcare, education and community development initiatives while working closely with Seychelles to promote peace, security and stability in the Indian Ocean region."
According to an official statement from the presidency, the visit underscores the historic ties and durable cooperation between the two nations, which have maintained formal diplomatic relations since Seychelles attained independence in 1976.
