From 5 Indians to 5% of population: Diaspora key to Seychelles ties, Pg18

Key Highlights:

• Five Indians first arrived in Seychelles in 1770 as plantation workers, marking the beginning of the Indian diaspora on the islands.
• Persons of Indian origin now constitute 5% of Seychelles' population, estimated at around 6,000 citizens of Indian origin in a total population of 120,000.
• Prime Minister Narendra Modi is visiting Seychelles for its 50th Independence Day celebrations as the Guest of Honour.
• India established diplomatic ties with Seychelles in 1976, the year of its independence.
• India views Seychelles as a key part of its maritime policy, Vision MAHASAGAR.

Seychelles.png

Detailed Insights:

• Indian migration to Seychelles increased significantly from the 20th century, primarily from Tamil Nadu, Puducherry, and Gujarat.
• During the British colonial period, Seychelles was briefly governed from the Bombay Presidency, fostering early trade links with India.
• The Indian diaspora in Seychelles is prominent in trading and construction sectors, with over 9,000 Non-Resident Indians (NRIs) holding Gainful Employment Permits.
• A statue of Mahatma Gandhi was erected at the Peace Park in Victoria, Seychelles, in June 2022, signifying cultural ties.
• India has emerged as a trusted development partner for Seychelles, offering grants, concessional credit, and capacity-building initiatives.
• Over 1% of Seychelles' population has received professional training in India, highlighting strong human resource development cooperation.
• India announced a Special Economic Package of $175 million for Seychelles, supporting infrastructure, healthcare, education, and public transport.
• India is a premier medical tourism destination for Seychelles, with institutional tie-ups connecting hospitals.

Key Concepts Involved:

• Vision MAHASAGAR: India's maritime doctrine, "Mutual and Holistic Advancement for Security and Growth Across Regions," aiming for expanded engagement in the Global South.
• Pravasi Bharatiya Samman Award: The highest honor conferred by the President of India on Overseas Indians for exceptional contributions.
• Lines of Credit: Concessional government-supported loans extended by India to developing countries for infrastructure and capacity-building projects.
• Special Economic Package: A financial aid package provided by India to support the developmental needs and priority sectors of a partner country.