Indian Naval Ships INS Tarkash and INS Ikshak have concluded their port call at Port Victoria, Seychelles, following a series of professional engagements, ceremonial events and community outreach activities held as part of the island nation’s National Day and Golden Jubilee celebrations.
The visit concluded on June 29 and underscored the growing maritime partnership between India and Seychelles.
During the deployment, the marching contingent and Naval Band of INS Tarkash participated in the National Day Parade on June 28, attended by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, who was the Guest of Honour for the celebrations.
As part of the visit, INS Ikshak hosted more than 300 visitors, showcasing its hydrographic survey capabilities and highlighting the Indian Navy’s contribution to hydrographic cooperation across the Indian Ocean Region.
In a community outreach initiative, the crew of INS Ikshak, in coordination with the High Commission of India in Seychelles, organised a health camp at the English River Home and distributed first-aid kits and essential supplies to residents.
The Ministry of Defence said the visit reaffirmed the Indian Navy’s commitment to strengthening maritime cooperation with friendly nations in the Indian Ocean Region in line with the Government’s MAHASAGAR (Mutual and Holistic Advancement for Security and Growth Across Regions) vision.
According to the ministry, the deployment also reflected the Indian Navy’s continued emphasis on enhancing interoperability, capacity building and maritime security, while further deepening the longstanding friendship and defence partnership between India and Seychelles.
