INS Teg, a stealth frigate of the Indian Navy’s Western Naval Command, concluded a significant port visit to Port Victoria, Seychelles, on 30 June 2025. The visit, part of the ship’s operational deployment to the South West Indian Ocean Region, featured a series of high-level engagements and cultural exchanges, reinforcing India’s maritime ties with Seychelles.
Upon arrival on 26 June 2025, the Commanding Officer of INS Teg paid courtesy calls on key government and military officials, including Chief of Defence Forces Major General Michael Rosette, Minister of Home Affairs Sylvestre Radegonde, and Indian High Commissioner to Seychelles Kartik Pande. The ship’s officers and crew also interacted with officials from the Indian High Commission, strengthening professional camaraderie and promoting maritime cooperation.
In a bid to enhance cultural outreach, a yoga session aligned with the 2025 International Day of Yoga theme “Yoga for One Earth, One Health” was held aboard the ship on 28 June. The event witnessed enthusiastic participation from the local community, members of the Indian diaspora, and the ship’s personnel.
Furthering public engagement, INS Teg was opened to visitors on the same day, attracting nearly 200 individuals who were given a guided tour of the vessel. The initiative fostered public appreciation of the Indian Navy’s operational capabilities and its role in ensuring regional maritime security.
A cultural evening hosted onboard on 28 June saw attendance from a range of dignitaries, including the Chief of Defence Forces, Ministers for Foreign Affairs and Tourism, Agriculture, and Community Affairs, foreign envoys from France, Japan, USA, Indonesia, and Sri Lanka, as well as members of the Indian diaspora. The programme featured a keynote by the Chief of Defence Forces highlighting the robust India-Seychelles defence partnership, particularly in capacity building through joint military exercises and regular port calls. The evening concluded with a performance by the Indian Naval Band, a dance presentation by the ship’s crew, and traditional Indian cuisine.
A major highlight of the port call was the participation of a marching contingent from INS Teg and the ship’s helicopter in a ceremonial parade on 29 June to mark Seychelles’ 49th National Day. The contingent’s performance drew wide acclaim for its precision and enthusiasm.
On 30 June, upon completing the port visit, INS Teg embarked Seychelles Coast Guard personnel for joint surveillance of the country’s Exclusive Economic Zone, running until 2 July 2025. This operation underscores India’s commitment to safeguarding the global maritime commons and combating Illegal, Unreported and Unregulated fishing.
The visit exemplifies the Indian Navy’s dedication to deepening maritime security cooperation and bilateral relations with Seychelles through a blend of operational, cultural and humanitarian engagements.
