Indian Naval Ship (INS) Savitri, an Offshore Patrol Vessel (OPV) of the Indian Navy, recently visited Port Victoria, Seychelles, to undertake joint Exclusive Economic Zone (EEZ) surveillance operations with the Seychelles Coast Guard. This visit reaffirms the deep bilateral maritime partnership shared by India and Seychelles and highlights India’s ongoing commitment to regional security and maritime cooperation in the Indian Ocean Region.
Strengthening Bilateral Maritime Cooperation
INS Savitri’s arrival was marked by a warm welcome from the Seychelles Coast Guard, underlining the strong mutual respect and strategic ties between the two countries. During the port call, INS Savitri handed over critical spares to Seychelles Coast Guard, bolstering the latter’s operational readiness. This gesture is part of India’s continued effort to enhance the capabilities of its maritime partners and contribute to the stability and security of the shared maritime domain.
The ship engaged in an array of harbour activities that included professional dialogues, subject matter expert exchanges, and the sharing of best practices. Such interactions are fundamental in building cohesive operational frameworks and fostering interoperability between the navies.
Joint EEZ Surveillance and Operational Activities
INS Savitri is set to embark personnel from the Seychelles Coast Guard to collectively conduct joint EEZ surveillance, aimed at enhancing maritime domain awareness and security in Seychelles’ waters. This collaborative surveillance effort is significant for safeguarding maritime resources and deterring illicit activities such as piracy and illegal fishing in the region.
Additionally, the ship’s operational capabilities and the Indian Navy’s maritime heritage were showcased during a special open day event for visitors, strengthening people-to-people ties and promoting naval diplomacy.
Strategic Vision and Regional Impact
The deployment of INS Savitri aligns with India’s strategic vision of ‘Mutual and Holistic Advancement for Security and Growth Across Regions’ (MAHASAGAR), which seeks to foster a secure, stable, and cooperative Indian Ocean Region. India’s role as a preferred security partner and first responder is underscored through such regular engagements and capacity-building initiatives with friendly navies in the area.
This outreach extends beyond Seychelles, with INS Savitri also undertaking previous port calls and joint exercises such as those in Mozambique, enhancing regional maritime collaboration and security architecture. Such initiatives are vital in addressing common challenges like piracy, maritime terrorism, and safeguarding critical sea lanes of communication.
Conclusion
The visit of INS Savitri to Seychelles and the joint EEZ surveillance undertaken with the Seychelles Coast Guard exemplify India’s proactive role in fostering regional maritime security and cooperation. This partnership not only enhances mutual capabilities but also strengthens the broader framework of maritime collaboration essential for ensuring peace, stability, and prosperity in the Indian Ocean Region.
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Source: PIB
