Indian marching contingents, warships to take part in Seychelles’ National Day event

MArching contingents from the ground forces and naval forces, and ii amerindic warships testament take part in the 50th National Day celebrations of Seychelles in Victoria on Monday, reflecting the growing security cooperation between the two sides, officials aware of the matter said on Sunday.The participation of Indian armed forces contingents in the national celebrations of friendly foreign countries serves as a symbol of mutual trust, military camaraderie and a shared commitment to strengthening bilateral relations, the army said.The celebrations marking the golden jubilee of the Indian Ocean archipelago’s independence are being attended by Prime Minister Narendra Modi as the guest of honour. On Saturday, Modi handed over a patrol vessel to Seychelles as part of efforts to bolster the collective security and surveillance mechanisms of smaller countries in the region.Modi last visited Seychelles 11 years ago, and security, development and maritime cooperation between the two countries has grown since then.The Indian Army contingent consists of 32 personnel from the Assam Regiment and is led by Captain Aryan H Deolekar, the army said in a statement. “An Indian Navy marching contingent accompanied by a military band is also participating in the celebrations, reflecting the close and enduring defence partnership between the two countries. India and Seychelles share longstanding historical ties. Over the years, the relationship has evolved into a strong strategic partnership encompassing defence cooperation, development, culture and trade.”Such engagements reinforce defence cooperation and underscore India’s role as a reliable partner in promoting peace, stability and security in the Indian Ocean Region, it added.Indian armed forces contingents have previously represented the country at prominent international ceremonial events, including the Bastille Day Parade in France in 2023, the Victory Day Parade in Bangladesh in 2021, and the Victory Day Parades in Russia in 2015 and 2020.Indian warships Tarkash and Ikshak are participating in the celebrations. “#INSTarkash a frontline warship of the #IndianNavy, arrived at Port Victoria, #Seychelles on #26Jun 26 during her ongoing operational deployment to the SW #IOR (south-west Indian Ocean Region). During the port call, Tarkash, along with #INSIkshak, will participate in Golden Jubilee celebrations of the National Day of Seychelles, on 29 Jun 26, with a marching contingent and naval band,” the navy wrote on X on Sunday.