IN NEWS:
INS Savitri Hosts Visitors During Port Call in Mauritius, Strengthening India–Mauritius Ties
Analysis:
- Naval Diplomacy and Outreach:
- Indian Naval Ship (INS Savitri) hosted visitors during its port call at Port Louis, the capital of Mauritius, as part of a long-range operational deployment to the South West Indian Ocean Region.
- The initiative aimed at showcasing India’s naval capabilities, technological advancements, and maritime traditions, promoting mutual understanding and maritime diplomacy.
- People-to-People and Defence Cooperation:
- The visit fostered people-to-people connections and reinforced the strategic maritime partnership between India and Mauritius.
- The Indian Navy’s outreach underlines its commitment to deepening defence cooperation and regional stability in the Indian Ocean Region (IOR).
- Operational Objectives:
- During this deployment, INS Savitri is undertaking joint Exclusive Economic Zone (EEZ) surveillance with Mauritius’ National Coast Guard (NCG) ships and aircraft.
- These operations enhance interoperability, coordination, and standard operating procedures (SOPs) for joint maritime security activities.
- Strategic Significance:
- The exercise strengthens India’s role as a net security provider in the Indian Ocean and aligns with the SAGAR (Security and Growth for All in the Region) vision.
- Mauritius remains a crucial partner for India in maintaining maritime domain awareness and ensuring peace and security in the South-West Indian Ocean.
Static / Background Information:
- INS Savitri:
- An Offshore Patrol Vessel (OPV) of the Indian Navy’s Eastern Fleet, designed for long-range operations including EEZ surveillance, anti-piracy, and humanitarian missions.
- India–Mauritius Defence Partnership:
- India assists Mauritius with training, equipment supply, hydrographic surveys, and joint maritime exercises.
- The relationship is built on shared values, historical ties, and common maritime interests in the Indian Ocean Region.
- Indian Ocean Diplomacy:
- India’s engagements with island nations like Mauritius are part of its Indo-Pacific outreach, enhancing maritime cooperation and regional security under the Neighbourhood First and SAGAR doctrines.
Updated – 6 Nov 2025 ; 2:01 PM | NewsOnAir