Why in the News
India and Seychelles adopted a Joint Vision for Sustainability, Economic Growth and Security through Enhanced Linkages (SESEL) during the State Visit of Seychelles President Patrick Herminie to India. The visit coincides with 50 years of Seychelles’ independence and 50 years of India–Seychelles diplomatic relations.
Key Outcomes
Strategic and Political
- Reaffirmation of special maritime partnership between India and Seychelles
- Seychelles recognised as a key pillar of India’s Vision MAHASAGAR
- Agreement to intensify political and parliamentary exchanges
Development Partnership
- India announced a Special Economic Package of USD 175 million
- USD 125 million Rupee denominated Line of Credit
- USD 50 million Grant assistance
- Focus areas include sustainability, defence, maritime security, capacity building and inclusive growth
Digital Public Infrastructure
- India to assist Seychelles in building Digital Public Infrastructure
- Includes digital payments and e governance systems
Health and Food Security
- Donation of 10 ambulances to Seychelles
- Seychelles to recognise Indian Pharmacopoeia, easing access to affordable medicines
- Donation of 1000 metric tonnes of grains to strengthen food security
- Cooperation on hospital construction and public health capacity
Capacity Building
- Expanded cooperation under Indian Technical and Economic Cooperation
- Training for civil servants, defence personnel and health professionals
- Customised training through National Centre for Good Governance
- Cooperation in cybersecurity, financial intelligence and MSME promotion
Climate Action and Renewables
- Cooperation under the International Solar Alliance
- Support for Multi Hazard Early Warning Systems
- Seychelles to join the Coalition for Disaster Resilient Infrastructure
- India to provide technical support for green transport and power grid management
Trade, Tourism and Connectivity
- Direct flights boosted Indian tourist arrivals
- Agreement to explore further air connectivity
- Focus on blue economy, fisheries, AI, digital services and affordable housing
Hydrography and Blue Economy
- Establishment of Seychelles Hydrographic Unit with Indian assistance
- Conduct of joint hydrographic surveys
- Third Joint Commission Meeting on Hydrography to be held in Seychelles in 2026
| [2025] Consider the following countries:
I. United Arab Emirates II. France III. Germany IV. Singapore V. Bangladesh How many countries amongst the above are there other than India where international merchant payments are accepted under UPI? (a) Only two (b) Only three (c) Only four (d) All the five |
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