The Indian Navy contingent proudly participated in the National Day parade of Mauritius on Wednesday. Prime Minister Narendra Modi was seen saluting the Indian contingent as it marched past, carrying a placard with “India” inscribed on it while holding the national tricolor. Additionally, an Indian Navy helicopter conducted a flypast over the event, captivating thousands of spectators gathered for the celebrations.
The marching unit and the helicopter display were part of the crew from INS Imphal, which is currently docked in Mauritius to partake in the National Day festivities. During its stay in Port Louis from March 10 to 14, the ship is engaging in various training programs, cultural exchanges, and joint exercises aimed at bolstering maritime security cooperation between India and Mauritius.
Among the scheduled activities are cross-training visits, friendly sports events, and community outreach programs designed to strengthen bilateral relations. A joint Exclusive Economic Zone (EEZ) surveillance operation and naval exercise with the Mauritius Coast Guard Ships (MCGS) are also on the agenda.
Captain Kamal Kumar Choudhury expressed his pride in representing India at the 57th National Day celebrations of Mauritius. “It is a matter of immense pride and honor for me and my crew to represent India. This continues a long-standing tradition of Indian warships and aircraft participating in these celebrations over the years. For today’s parade, we have a marching contingent, a naval band, and two helicopters taking part in the flypast,” he said.
PM Modi is the Chief Guest at Mauritius’ National Day for the second time, an honour he first received in 2015. This rare repeat invitation underscores India’s special relationship with Mauritius, rooted in shared history, culture, and diaspora ties.
(Inputs from ANI)
