India and Mauritius Are Not Just Partners, They Are Family: PM Modi Meets Mauritius PM in Varanasi

Prime Minister Narendra Modi met Mauritius Prime Minister Dr. Navinchandra Ramgoolam in his parliamentary constituency, Varanasi, on Thursday. The two leaders held bilateral talks and signed multiple agreements to strengthen cooperation across key sectors. PM Modi emphasized, “India and Mauritius are not just partners, they are a family.”

A Spiritual Welcome in Kashi

PM Modi said it was a matter of pride to welcome the Mauritius PM in his constituency, Kashi. He highlighted the deep civilizational and cultural ties between the two nations:

“Since ancient times, Kashi has been the symbol of India’s culture and traditions. Centuries ago, these traditions traveled to Mauritius and became part of its life stream. Like the uninterrupted flow of the Ganga, Indian culture continues to enrich Mauritius even today. This is not just a formal, but a spiritual meeting.”

Strategic Partnership Strengthened

During the talks, both leaders reviewed bilateral cooperation and exchanged views on regional and global issues. PM Modi recalled attending the Mauritius National Day in March, where relations were elevated to an Enhanced Strategic Partnership.

Key points discussed included:

• Chagos Agreement: PM Modi congratulated Mauritius on its conclusion.

• Neighbourhood First & Vision SAGAR (Security and Growth for All in the Region): Mauritius was described as a key pillar in India’s maritime and regional vision.

New Agreements Signed

Several important agreements were finalized to boost collaboration in education, research, security, and maritime cooperation:

Education & Research – IIT Madras and Indian Institute of Plantation Management signed MoUs with Mauritius University.

Maritime Security – India is modernizing a Mauritius Coast Guard ship and training 120 Mauritian officers.

Hydrography (Marine Mapping) – A 5-year plan for joint EEZ surveys, navigation cooperation, and data sharing was launched.

India’s Development Support to Mauritius

PM Modi announced multiple projects reflecting India’s commitment to Mauritius’ growth:

• Energy & Environment:

  • 100 electric buses (10 already delivered).

  • Joint development of a 17.5 MW floating solar plant at Tamarind Falls.

• Healthcare:

  • Establishment of the first Jan Aushadhi Kendra outside India in Mauritius.

  • India’s support in building a 500-bed AYUSH Center of Excellence at SSRN Hospital and a Veterinary School & Animal Hospital.

• Infrastructure:

  • Projects including Chagos Marine Protected Area, a new ATC tower at SSR International Airport, and highway and ring road expansion.

• Digital Payments & Trade:

  • Following the launch of UPI and RuPay cards in Mauritius last year, both countries will now work on promoting trade in local currency.

PM Modi clarified that this package is “not assistance, but an investment in our common future.”

PM of Mauritius Expresses Gratitude

Dr. Ramgoolam thanked PM Modi and said he understood why Modi was elected in such large numbers, given the warmth of his constituency. He praised India’s long-standing role in Mauritius’ development:

“India has been with Mauritius in its journey of progress — in health, education, renewable energy, infrastructure, and maritime security. India’s timely support has made a tangible difference in improving the quality of life of Mauritians.”

The Takeaway

The meeting between PM Modi and PM Ramgoolam in Varanasi reaffirmed the deep-rooted cultural, historical, and strategic ties between India and Mauritius. With new agreements in education, energy, healthcare, maritime security, and digital payments, the partnership has taken a significant leap forward — reflecting not just cooperation, but a shared vision of family and future prosperity.