Source: The post India strengthens development partnership with Mauritius has been created, based on the article “India and Mauritius not just partners but a family: Modi” published in “The Hindu” on 12 September 2025. India strengthens development partnership with Mauritius.
UPSC Syllabus Topic: GS Paper2-Bilateral, regional and global groupings and agreements involving India and/or affecting India’s interests.
Context: India and Mauritius deepened ties in Varanasi after a bilateral meeting between Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Prime Minister Navinchandra Ramgoolam. They unveiled a special economic package, seven MoUs, and projects.
For detailed information on India-Mauritius Relations read this article here
What Was Agreed in Varanasi?
- Package and financing: India announced a package worth $680 million, including $25 million as budgetary assistance. It is structured on grant and grant-cum-line of credit bases and is described as an investment in a shared future.
- MoUs and sectors: Both sides signed seven MoUs covering science and technology, oceanographic research, the power sector, and Phase-2 small development projects.
- Local currency trade. After UPI and RuPay launched last year, both countries will work towards enabling trade in local currencies.
How Will People Benefit?
- Healthcare and medicines: India will support an AYUSH Centre of Excellence and a 500-bed Sir Seewoosagur Ramgoolam National Hospital. The first Jan Aushadhi Kendra outside India operates in Mauritius to improve access to affordable medicines.
- Education and research: IIT Madras and the Indian Institute of Plantation Management have agreements with the University of Mauritius to elevate research, education, and innovation. India will also help set up a new Directorate of Science and Technology in Mauritius.
- Capacity building: Over 5,000 Mauritians have trained in India. Training for 500 civil servants has begun in Mussoorie, and Mission Karmayogi modules will launch in Mauritius.
- Animal health. Plans include a Veterinary School and an Animal Hospital. These will expand services and skills.
How Are Seas and Security Addressed?
- EEZ security and roles: India remains fully committed to strengthening Mauritius’s Exclusive Economic Zone security and maritime capacity. India highlights its role as first responder and net security provider in the region.
- Hydrography cooperation: A new agreement provides five years of joint surveys, navigation charts, and hydrographic data for Mauritius’s EEZ. The EEZ expanded after a treaty with the UK established sovereignty over the Chagos archipelago.
- Port and marine protection: In-principle accords cover redevelopment of Port Louis and development and surveillance of the Chagos Marine Protected Area. Priorities include maritime security, drug traffic, and illegal fishing.
- Training and refit: India is refitting a Mauritius Coast Guard ship and training 120 officers. These steps lift readiness and strengthen operations.
What Will Be Built and Powered?
1.Air and road projects: The package advances an ATC Tower at SSR International Airport and expansion of highways and ring roads. This supports safer travel and better connectivity.
- Clean energy and mobility: India will support a 17.5 MW floating solar project at Tamarind Falls and provide 100 electric buses; ten are delivered. These actions back Mauritius’s energy transition.
- Equipment and services: The package includes choppers and support for road building. Combined works generate employment and improve services.
How Do Culture and Policy Align?
- Civilisational ties: Leaders described India and Mauritius as a family rooted in shared culture, with the Varanasi visit underscoring spiritual linkages.
- Neighbourhood First and ocean vision: Mauritius is integral to India’s Neighbourhood First policy and Vision Mahasagar. Both affirmed a free, open, secure, stable, and prosperous Indian Ocean as a shared priority.
- Mutual appreciation and symbolism: PM Ramgoolam praised India’s timely support. He expressed intent to visit Chagos, preferring an Indian vessel, reflecting trust and enduring friendship.
Question for practice:
Examine how India’s special economic package and seven MoUs will support Mauritius in healthcare, infrastructure, energy, and maritime security?
