New Delhi, June 27: Indian Naval Ship (INS) Ikshak, the Indian Navy’s indigenously built Survey Vessel Large (SVL), arrived at Port Victoria, Seychelles, on June 26 as part of its operational deployment to the South West Indian Ocean Region. The visit coincides with the 50th National Day celebrations of Seychelles, highlighting the enduring maritime partnership and longstanding friendship between India and the island nation. The deployment reflects India’s continued commitment to strengthening regional maritime cooperation under its strategic vision of MAHASAGAR (Mutual and Holistic Advancement for Security and Growth Across Regions).
Participation in National Day Celebrations
During its stay at Port Victoria, INS Ikshak will participate in Seychelles’ 50th National Day celebrations alongside the Seychelles Defence Forces and other dignitaries. The visit underscores the close defence and diplomatic ties shared by India and Seychelles, with both countries continuing to work together to promote peace, stability and maritime security in the Indian Ocean Region.
Enhancing Maritime Cooperation
The port call will feature a series of professional interactions between the Indian Navy and the Seychelles Defence Forces aimed at enhancing operational cooperation, interoperability and the exchange of best practices. The engagements are expected to further strengthen defence collaboration and reinforce the shared commitment of both countries to ensuring a secure and rules-based maritime environment.
Community Outreach Initiatives
As part of its overseas deployment, INS Ikshak will also undertake several community outreach programmes designed to strengthen people-to-people ties. The ship’s crew will organise medical camps and distribute essential supplies to local communities, reflecting India’s commitment to humanitarian assistance and capacity-building initiatives in friendly Indian Ocean nations.
Showcasing Indigenous Naval Capability
INS Ikshak will be open to visitors during its stay, allowing members of the public and local officials to experience the capabilities of the Indian Navy’s latest indigenous Survey Vessel Large. The visit provides an opportunity to showcase India’s advances in indigenous naval shipbuilding and its growing role in promoting maritime safety, hydrographic cooperation and regional security.
Reinforcing India’s Vision for the Indian Ocean
The deployment of INS Ikshak reaffirms India’s strategic commitment to deepening maritime partnerships with friendly nations and advancing peace, security and stability across the Indian Ocean Region. Through initiatives such as MAHASAGAR, India continues to strengthen defence diplomacy, enhance regional cooperation and contribute to a free, open and inclusive maritime domain.