Marching units from the army, navy and two Indian warships will participate in Seychelles’ 50th National Day celebrations in Victoria on Monday, reflecting growing security cooperation between the two sides, officials familiar with the matter said on Sunday.
The Army said that the participation of Indian Armed Forces units in the national celebrations of friendly foreign countries is a symbol of mutual trust, military friendship and shared commitment to strengthening bilateral relations.
The celebrations marking the golden jubilee of the independence of the archipelago located in the Indian Ocean will be attended by Prime Minister Narendra Modi as guest of honour. On Saturday, Modi handed over a patrol ship to Seychelles as part of efforts to strengthen collective security and surveillance mechanisms for small countries in the region.
Modi’s last visit to Seychelles was 11 years ago, and since then security, development and maritime cooperation between the two countries has grown.
The Indian Army contingent consists of 32 personnel from the Assam Regiment and is led by Captain Aryan H. Deolikar, the Indian Army said in a statement. “An Indian Navy marching band accompanied by a military band will also participate in the celebrations, reflecting the close and enduring defense partnership between the two countries. India and Seychelles share long-standing historical ties. Over the years, the relationship has evolved into a strong strategic partnership spanning defense cooperation, development, culture and trade.”
Such engagements enhance defense cooperation and underscore India’s role as a reliable partner in promoting peace, stability and security in the Indian Ocean region, she added.
Indian Armed Forces units have previously represented the country at notable international ceremonial occasions, including France’s Bastille Day parade in 2023, Bangladesh’s Victory Day parade in 2021, and Russia’s Victory Day parades in 2015 and 2020.
The Indian warships Tarkash and Ikshak are participating in the celebrations. “#INSTarkash, a frontline warship of the Indian Navy, arrived at Port Victoria, #Seychelles on 26 Jun 26 during its ongoing operational deployment in the South West #IOR (Southwest Indian Ocean Region). During the port call, Tarkash, along with INSIkshak, will participate in the Seychelles National Day Golden Jubilee celebrations, on 29 Jun 26, with a marching band and a naval band.” The Navy wrote on X on Sunday.
