Indian Navy's First Training Squadron

The recent visit by the Indian Navy's First Training Squadron (1TS), consisting of INS Tir, INS Shardul, and ICGS Sarathi, to Seychelles is an important development in the context of maritime security and bilateral relations between India and Seychelles.

Geographical Overview:

• Location: Seychelles is an archipelagic island nation in the western Indian Ocean. It lies to the northeast of Madagascar and to the east of mainland Africa. Other major islands nearby include Comoros and Mauritius to the south, and the Maldives to the east.

• Islands: The country consists of 115 islands, though only 8 are permanently inhabited. The islands are divided into two main groups:

  • Mahé Group: These are granite and volcanic islands, with hilly interiors and narrow coastal strips.

  • Coralline Islands: These are relatively flat coral atolls or elevated reefs that sit on the Mascarene Plateau.

Climate:

• Tropical Oceanic Climate: Seychelles has a tropical climate with little temperature variation throughout the year. The weather remains warm and humid, making it a popular tourist destination for beach lovers and nature enthusiasts.

Capital & Cultural Significance:

• Victoria: The capital city is located on Mahé Island. It’s the heart of Seychelles’ culture, commerce, and politics. Victoria is one of the smallest capitals in the world, and it has a blend of colonial and modern influences.

UNESCO World Heritage Sites:

• Aldabra Islands: This is the world’s second-largest coral atoll and home to a variety of endemic species. It’s an important site for wildlife conservation.

• Vallée de Mai National Park: A pristine nature reserve in the heart of Praslin Island, it is known for the coco de mer palm, whose seeds are the largest in the plant kingdom.

Maritime Security and Regional Cooperation:

The Indian Navy’s visit underscores the strategic importance of Seychelles in the Indian Ocean. Seychelles' location makes it a key player in ensuring maritime security, including combating piracy, illegal fishing, and drug trafficking. India and Seychelles have had strong naval ties, and such visits are important for increasing cooperation on defense, particularly as both countries have a shared interest in safeguarding the safety and security of the Indian Ocean region.