India unveils USD 680 million special economic package for Mauritius

India has rolled out a special economic package for Mauritius, pledging assistance worth nearly USD 680 million (MUR 30 billion) across health, infrastructure, and maritime security sectors. The announcement came after Prime Minister Narendra Modi held extensive talks in New Delhi with Mauritian Prime Minister Dr Navinchandra Ramgoolam, who is on a state visit to India.

Officials stated that the discussions between the two leaders were “very fruitful” and reflected the deep-rooted partnership that has consistently defined India-Mauritius ties. At the heart of the package are high-visibility development projects to be funded through direct grants worth approximately USD 215 million (MUR 9.8 billion). These include the construction of a new Sir Seewoosagur Ramgoolam National Hospital, the establishment of an AYUSH Centre of Excellence, a Veterinary School and Animal Hospital, and the provision of helicopters for Mauritius.

Additionally, projects worth approximately USD 440 million (MUR 20.1 billion) will be undertaken on a grant-cum-Line of Credit basis. These projects cover key infrastructure demands, ranging from the completion of a new air traffic control tower at SSR International Airport to the expansion of Motorway M4, the development of Ring Road Phase II, and the acquisition of modern port equipment by the Cargo Handling Corporation Ltd.

On the strategic front, both sides agreed in principle to cooperate on the redevelopment and restructuring of Mauritius’ port facilities, as well as India’s assistance in the development and surveillance of Chagos Marine Protected Area. This move underscores New Delhi’s growing role in the security architecture of the Indian Ocean. New Delhi also announced that it would extend budgetary support of USD 25 million to Port Louis during the current financial year.

Officials emphasised that the package is not merely an economic gesture but a reaffirmation of India’s commitment to its closest maritime neighbour in the region. The breadth of the projects, ranging from cutting-edge hospitals to critical maritime assets, signals both countries’ intent to deepen their ties at a time of shifting geostrategic currents. The two prime ministers, officials said, underscored that the relationship is guided not only by shared strategic interests but also by history, culture, and values that continue to bind the people of the two nations.