Indian Navy’s First Training Squadron Docks in Seychelles, Strengthening Maritime Friendships and Partnerships

In a splendid maritime display underscoring robust bilateral ties, Seychelles accorded a grand and ceremonial welcome to the Indian Navy's First Training Squadron (1TS) on September 1, 2025, at Port Victoria. The squadron, comprising INS Tir, INS Shardul, and CGS Sarathi, is currently on an extensive long-range training deployment in the strategically significant South West Indian Ocean Region. This visit marks the third port call of Indian Navy ships to Seychelles in 2025, highlighting the sustained maritime partnership and cooperation between the two countries.

Key Highlights of the Visit

The welcome ceremony featured an impressive performance by the Seychelles Defence Force (SDF) band alongside the Indian Navy's ceremonial Guard and Band onboard the 1TS, symbolizing a spirit of solidarity and friendship.

Senior Officer of 1TS, Captain Tijo K Joseph, held meetings with prominent dignitaries including Seychelles government officials, senior officers of the SDF, and representatives from the Indian High Commission.

The visit included professional exchanges, cross-deck ship visits, and joint training activities aimed at enhancing operational interoperability.

Cultural and community activities organized included special yoga sessions attended by locals and the Indian diaspora, Naval Band performances, sports fixtures, and social outreach programs.

The ongoing deployment aligns with India’s strategic vision MAHASAGAR (Mutual and Holistic Advancement for Security and Growth Across Regions), aimed at bolstering security and growth in the Indian Ocean Region (IOR).

Arrival and Ceremonial Reception

The First Training Squadron's arrival at Seychelles was marked with traditional naval honors. The Seychelles Defence Force band played, welcoming the Indian warships, while the Indian Navy’s ceremonial guard and band paraded onboard the visiting ships, creating a spectacular sight that illustrated the close maritime ties between India and Seychelles. This warm reception signifies the deepening defence cooperation and mutual respect that characterize the bilateral relationship.

Diplomatic and Defence Engagements

During the stay, Captain Tijo K Joseph engaged with key personalities such as Seychelles’ Chief of Defence Forces Major General Michael Rosette, Minister of Foreign Affairs and Tourism Sylvestre Radegonde, Minister of Internal Affairs Errol Fonseka, and other senior government officials. These meetings focused on strengthening maritime cooperation and exploring new avenues for collaboration in defense and security, underscoring Seychelles’ strategic role at the crossroads of Africa, West Asia, and India.

Training and Professional Interactions

The port call was leveraged for multiple professional exchanges and cross-deck visits between Indian Navy personnel and Seychelles Defence Force members. These interactions are crucial for sharing expertise, enhancing joint operational capabilities, and reinforcing professional networks within the Indian Ocean littoral states. Training exercises and knowledge-sharing initiatives during the visit provide invaluable real-time experience to trainees onboard the 1TS while fostering mutual learning.

Cultural Exchange and Community Engagement

Recognizing the importance of people-to-people connections, the Indian Navy organized several cultural programs, including yoga sessions that saw enthusiastic participation from local residents and members of the Indian diaspora in Seychelles. The Naval Band performed for the community, and sports events further cemented friendly ties. Social outreach programs were a significant feature of this visit, reflecting India’s commitment to engaging constructively with host nations beyond military diplomacy.

Strategic Importance and MAHASAGAR Vision

Seychelles, despite its size, holds a vital geographic and strategic position in the Indian Ocean, bridging Africa, West Asia, and South Asia. The Indian Navy's continuous visits underline the importance of maintaining regional stability and security, aligned with India’s MAHASAGAR vision. This framework aims for mutual growth and security across the Indian Ocean territories, reinforcing India’s role as a net security provider and a proactive partner in the extended neighbourhood.

Conclusion

The Indian Navy's First Training Squadron visit to Seychelles in 2025 epitomizes a multifaceted partnership built on trust, collaboration, and shared maritime interests. These interactions not only enhance naval capabilities but also weave a stronger fabric of regional cooperation, reflecting the evolving dynamics of India's neighborhood policy and extended maritime outreach.

Source: Press Information Bureau India, Indian High Commission Seychelles, Indian Ministry of Defence reports,