New Delhi: India has pledged $680 million in economic assistance to Mauritius, marking a major boost in bilateral relations and signaling New Delhi’s determination to strengthen its presence in the Indian Ocean region. The package, announced during the visit of Mauritian Prime Minister Navinchandra Ramgoolam, spans infrastructure, healthcare, maritime security, and environmental conservation.
According to official statements, the $680 million support will be delivered through a mix of grants and lines of credit. The funds will cover the construction of new hospitals, redevelopment of port infrastructure, acquisition of helicopters, and enhancement of maritime surveillance systems. A separate $25 million budgetary allocation will help Mauritius meet pressing financial obligations for the current fiscal year.
A significant portion of the package is directed towards the development and monitoring of a marine protected area in the Chagos archipelago. This region has long been at the center of international debate due to the presence of the U.S.-British base at Diego Garcia. By backing Mauritius’ sovereignty claim over the islands, India has reaffirmed its diplomatic support for Port Louis, while carefully balancing its ties with Western allies.
The commitment is also seen as part of India’s broader “Security and Growth for All in the Region” (SAGAR) policy, which seeks to ensure stability and development in the Indian Ocean. Analysts note that this assistance comes amid growing Chinese influence in the region, where Beijing has expanded trade ties and port projects. By reinforcing its economic and security cooperation with Mauritius, New Delhi is positioning itself as a reliable partner.
For Mauritius, the support has significant domestic implications. New hospitals are expected to strengthen the island nation’s public health system, while port upgrades could stimulate trade and tourism. Investments in maritime surveillance and protected marine zones will not only guard against illegal fishing and smuggling but also enhance resilience against climate change impacts.
Mauritian Prime Minister Navinchandra Ramgoolam welcomed the support, calling it a “gesture of solidarity and friendship that strengthens our sovereignty and future development.” Indian officials stressed that the initiative reflects New Delhi’s commitment to partnership with Indian Ocean nations on an equal footing.
Observers caution that while the pledge is substantial, its success will depend on transparent implementation, timely delivery, and ensuring that projects are sustainable. The sensitive question of Chagos, with its overlapping claims and foreign military presence, will also require careful diplomatic handling.
The new partnership underscores India’s strategic shift towards greater engagement with small island states, combining economic cooperation with security guarantees. For Mauritius, it represents not only financial assistance but also a reaffirmation of its role as a central partner in the Indian Ocean region.