News: The Indian Navy’s first training squadron INS Aravali arrives at Réunion island, Mauritius.
About Réunion Island
- Location: Reunion Island is a remote Indian Ocean island located between Madagascar and Mauritius.
- It is an overseas region of France.
- Capital: The island’s capital is Saint-Denis which is home to one-fifth of the population.
- The Island is home to one of the world’s most active volcanoes, the Piton de la Fournaise which is also a World Heritage site.
- Ports: Réunion’s coast has no good natural harbors.
- Climate: It has a tropical climate.
- Geographical Features: Réunion is mostly volcanic and mountainous, deeply dissected by short torrential rivers.
- Rivers: The Marsouins and Galet Rivers are the largest.
- Along with Mauritius and Rodrigues, the island forms the Mascarene Archipelago.
- Strategic Importance: Réunion hosts French naval bases, enhancing Indo-Pacific maritime security, aligning with India’s regional interests. Its biodiversity, including 850 endemic species, supports global conservation efforts.
- Demographics and Culture: Today, the population is largely of mixed African, European, and South Asian descent. Its Creole culture reflects African, Indian, and French influences, visible in maloya music and a spicy fusion cuisine.
