Indian naval ships conclude Seychelles visit after National Day celebrations
New Delhi, July 1. Indian Naval Ships Tarkash and Ikshak concluded their port call at Port Victoria in Seychelles on June 29 after participating in a series of professional, ceremonial and community outreach activities held as part of the island nation’s National Day and Golden Jubilee celebrations.
The visit coincided with the presence of Prime Minister Narendra Modi in Seychelles as the guest of honour for the National Day celebrations, underlining the close maritime and strategic partnership between the two countries.
A marching contingent and the naval band from INS Tarkash took part in the National Day Parade on June 28, showcasing the longstanding defence and maritime ties between India and Seychelles.
According to a statement issued by the Ministry of Defence on July 1, during the port call, INS Ikshak opened its decks to more than 300 visitors, offering a glimpse into the vessel’s hydrographic survey capabilities and highlighting the Indian Navy’s role in supporting hydrographic cooperation and maritime capacity-building efforts across the Indian Ocean Region.
As part of community engagement activities, the crew of INS Ikshak, in collaboration with the High Commission of India in Seychelles, organised a health camp at the English River Home. The sailors also distributed first-aid kits and essential supplies to residents, reinforcing the two countries’ shared commitment to community welfare and humanitarian outreach.
The deployment of the two warships reflects the Indian Navy’s continuing efforts to deepen maritime cooperation with partner countries in the Indian Ocean Region under the Government of India’s MAHASAGAR (Mutual and Holistic Advancement for Security and Growth Across Regions) vision.
The visit also underscored India’s focus on strengthening interoperability, enhancing maritime security and supporting capacity-building initiatives with friendly nations, while further reinforcing the longstanding friendship and defence partnership between India and Seychelles.
