India Announces USD 175 Million Special Economic Package for Seychelles, Deepening Strategic Partnership
The Voice of Chandigarh | Travel Trade Reporter
India and Seychelles have reaffirmed their deep-rooted partnership with the announcement of a Joint Vision for Sustainability, Economic Growth and Security through Enhanced Linkages (SESEL) during the State Visit of Seychelles President Dr. Patrick Herminie to India (5–10 February 2026), at the invitation of Prime Minister Narendra Modi.
The visit, coming just 100 days after President Herminie’s inauguration, is especially significant as both nations mark 50 years of Seychelles’ Independence and 50 years of diplomatic relations. The two leaders held comprehensive talks on 9 February 2026, reaffirming their special maritime partnership, shared democratic values and people-centric cooperation in the Western Indian Ocean Region, aligned with India’s Vision MAHASAGAR.
A major highlight was India’s Special Economic Package of USD 175 million for Seychelles, comprising a USD 125 million Line of Credit and USD 50 million in grant assistance to support development projects, capacity building, defence and maritime security. India also agreed to assist Seychelles in digital governance and Digital Public Infrastructure, including digital payments.
In health and social sectors, India announced the donation of 10 advanced ambulances, support for construction of a new hospital, cooperation in mental health, and facilitation of affordable medicines through recognition of the Indian Pharmacopoeia and the Jan Aushadhi initiative. To support food security, India will provide 1,000 metric tons of grains to Seychelles.
Both sides agreed to expand cooperation in capacity building, including training for civil servants, defence personnel and professionals in sectors such as cybersecurity, climate change, marine conservation, MSMEs and renewable energy. Seychelles will also join the Coalition for Disaster Resilient Infrastructure (CDRI).
On climate action, India will extend technical assistance for renewable energy, power grid management, green mobility, and multi-hazard early warning systems, acknowledging Seychelles’ vulnerability as a Small Island Developing State.
In trade and tourism, the leaders stressed enhancing investment, connectivity and direct flights, noting the rise in Indian tourists to Seychelles. Cooperation in the blue economy and hydrography will be strengthened with Indian support for establishing a Seychelles Hydrographic Unit.
Maritime security and defence remained a cornerstone, with both leaders committing to a free, open and secure Indian Ocean Region, enhanced surveillance, joint exercises, and capacity building for the Seychelles Defence Forces. India also reiterated strong support for Seychelles at regional and multilateral forums.
The meeting concluded with both leaders expressing confidence that the SESEL Vision will elevate the India–Seychelles partnership and deliver tangible benefits for the people of both nations.
