Port Victoria, March 18 – India donated ship spares to the Seychelles Defence Forces on Wednesday, highlighting New Delhi's MAHASAGAR (Mutual and Holistic Advancement for Security and Growth Across Regions) vision for inclusive, cooperative, and sustainable security and growth across regions.
According to the High Commission of India in Seychelles, the ship spares were handed over by Captain Sachin Kulkarni, the Commanding Officer of INS Trikand, which is currently visiting Port Victoria to participate in the 11th edition of the biennial Exercise 'Lamitye'. The sea phase of the exercise began on Wednesday.
"He also met with the Chief of Defence Forces, Maj. General Michael Rosette, and discussed the participation of INS Trikand in the ongoing 11th edition of Exercise Lamitye," the High Commission of India posted on X.
An Indian Armed Forces contingent is in Seychelles to participate in the 11th edition of the joint military exercise 'Lamitiye-2026' with the Seychelles Defence Forces (SDF). The joint exercise is being conducted at the Seychelles Defence Academy from March 9 to 20. 'Lamitiye', meaning 'friendship' in the Creole language, is a biennial training event and has been conducted in Seychelles since 2001.
According to the Indian defence ministry, this edition marks a significant milestone with the participation of all three services of the Indian Armed Forces. The contingent comprises personnel from the Assam Regiment, and participation from the Indian Navy and Indian Air Force, including INS Trikand and a C-130 aircraft.
"The exercise aims to enhance synergy in the domains of sub-conventional operations in semi-urban environments and cooperation and interoperability between both sides during peacekeeping operations. The exercise will also build and promote bilateral military relations, in addition to exchanging skills, experiences and best practices between both armies," the Ministry of Defence stated last week.
During the exercise, both sides are jointly training, planning, and executing a series of tactical drills to neutralise potential threats that may be encountered in a semi-urban environment, while also exploiting and showcasing new generation equipment and technology. The 12-day joint exercise also includes field training exercises, combat discussions, case studies, lectures, and demonstrations, culminating with two days of validation exercises.
"The exercise will greatly contribute to developing mutual understanding and enhancing jointness among the troops of both nations," the Ministry of Defence stated.
