India-Mauritius Relations

GS-II-International Relations

Context:

PM’s visit to Mauritius highlights India’s commitment to its historical and strategic partnership with the island nation.

Indo-Mauritius Bilateral Relations

1. Historical & Cultural Ties:

• Indian Diaspora: Nearly 70% of Mauritius’ population has Indian ancestry, tracing back to indentured laborers from colonial times.
• Stable Relations: Strong political and diplomatic ties across different governments.
• Cultural Links: Bhojpuri, Tamil, Telugu, Marathi languages thrive, showcasing deep-rooted Indian influence.
• Institutional Support: India established the Mahatma Gandhi Institute & Indian Cultural Centre to promote cultural heritage.
• Strategic Collaboration: India supports Mauritius in governance, capacity building, and global diplomacy.

2. Economic & Trade Cooperation:

• Trade Relations: Bilateral trade reached $554 million (2022-23), with Mauritius acting as India’s gateway to Africa.
• CECPA (Comprehensive Economic Cooperation & Partnership Agreement): First trade agreement between India and an African nation, enhancing market access.
• DTAA (Double Taxation Avoidance Agreement): Strengthens Mauritius’ role as a financial hub facilitating Indian investments.
• Infrastructure Development: India funds key projects like roads, metro expansion, and Smart City initiatives in Mauritius.

3. Maritime & Security Cooperation:

• Coastal Radar Network: Enhances Mauritius’ maritime security with India’s radar stations.
• Agalega Island Development: India upgraded airstrips & infrastructure for joint security and maritime monitoring.
• Indian Ocean Security: Mauritius has access to India’s Information Fusion Centre – Indian Ocean Region (IFC-IOR) for real-time maritime surveillance.
• Naval Collaboration: India provides training, joint exercises & technical support to the Mauritian Coast Guard & Navy.
• Oceanographic Surveys: INS Sarvekshak mapped 25,000 sq km of Mauritius’ waters for resource exploration and navigation.

4. Development Assistance & Capacity Building:

• Line of Credit: India provides financial aid for housing, healthcare & water supply projects.
• Skill Development: Training in IT, healthcare, and governance under the ITEC scheme.
• Education & Scholarships: Indian Council for Cultural Relations (ICCR) offers scholarships to Mauritian students.

5. Science & Technology Cooperation:

• E-Mobility & Green Energy: Collaboration in renewable energy & electrification projects.
• Fintech & Cybersecurity: Strengthening digital governance & cybersecurity.
• Space Cooperation: India supports satellite tech, climate studies & disaster management in Mauritius.

Geopolitical Significance:

• Countering China: Strengthened India-Mauritius ties balance China’s increasing influence in the Indian Ocean.
• Regional Stability: Reinforces Indo-Pacific security and ensures a free, open maritime domain.

Way Forward:

• Expanding Economic Ties: Enhancing CECPA, investing in AI, pharma & tourism.
• Boosting Security Collaboration: Strengthening naval cooperation & intelligence sharing.
• Sustainable Development: Joint efforts in climate resilience, blue economy, & clean energy initiatives.

India-Mauritius relations remain strategic and multifaceted, playing a key role in regional security, trade, and sustainable development.