India Opens Coffers for Old Friend, Pledges $175 Million Aid and Officer Training
India Announces 175 Million Aid Package for Seychelles After PM Modi–President Herminie Talks: India has extended major financial and strategic support to its longtime partner Seychelles, announcing $175 million (around ₹1,586 crore) in assistance following talks between Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Seychelles President Patrick Herminie. The aid aims to strengthen infrastructure, housing, security, and digital development in the island nation.
According to official statements, the financial assistance will be utilised for public housing projects, road development, and security enhancement, with the goal of improving the daily lives of Seychellois citizens. Prime Minister Modi emphasised that India’s partnership with Seychelles is guided by the needs and welfare of its people, not just diplomatic interests.
A significant outcome of the meeting was the decision by both countries to promote trade in their respective national currencies, reducing dependence on the US dollar. India will also support Seychelles in expanding digital payment systems and modern financial accounting practices.
Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi holds talks with Seychelles President Patrick Herminie in
Beyond financial aid, India will assist in capacity-building of the Seychelles government. Under a new agreement, Seychelles government officials will receive training in India, aimed at improving governance efficiency and administrative skills. PM Modi noted that this initiative would also create new employment opportunities for Seychellois youth. India’s ITEC programme is already playing a key role in skill development in the country.
President Herminie acknowledged India’s long-standing contribution, particularly highlighting the services of Indian doctors and medical professionals, who have significantly benefited the people of Seychelles.
Highlighting the historical and cultural ties between the two nations, PM Modi said that India and Seychelles are connected not just politically but through the waves of the Indian Ocean, which have linked their people for centuries. Reflecting this deep trust, President Herminie invited PM Modi as the guest of honour for Seychelles’ 50th Independence anniversary celebrations.
The leaders also discussed cooperation in tourism, ocean conservation, pollution control, solar energy, electric vehicles, and clean public transport. Tourism, a key pillar of Seychelles’ economy, continues to benefit from the rising number of Indian visitors.
At the conclusion of the meeting, both sides unveiled a joint vision document outlining future collaboration. PM Modi said the agreements would elevate the India–Seychelles partnership to new heights, strengthening cooperation across economic, digital, environmental, and strategic sectors.
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