PM Narendra Modi’s Historic Visit to Mauritius

Prime Minister Narendra Modi embarked on a two-day state visit to Mauritius on March 11, 2025, reinforcing India’s long-standing ties with the island nation. During his visit, PM Modi participated in various diplomatic, cultural, and economic engagements, highlighting the deep-rooted relationship between the two countries. His visit was marked by significant announcements, including the Overseas Citizen of India (OCI) cards for Mauritian leaders, the inauguration of over 20 India-funded projects, and receiving Mauritius’ highest civilian honor, The Grand Commander of the Order of the Star and Key of the Indian Ocean.

Mauritius: A Bridge Between India and the Global South

During his address, PM Modi emphasized Mauritius’ role as a bridge between India and the Global South, reaffirming the strong historical and cultural ties that unite the two nations. He stated that Mauritius is not just a partner country but a vital part of India’s extended family. His visit reflected India’s commitment to strengthening diplomatic, economic, and cultural ties with Mauritius.

Ceremonial Welcome and State Visit Highlights

PM Modi commenced his visit with a ceremonial welcome in Port Louis, the capital of Mauritius. His itinerary included:

• A sapling planting ceremony at the Sir Seewoosagur Ramgoolam Botanical Garden alongside Mauritian Prime Minister Navinchandra Ramgoolam.
• Paying homage at the Samadhi of Sir Seewoosagur Ramgoolam, the founding father of Mauritius.
• Paying tribute at the Samadhi of Anerood Jugnauth, former President and Prime Minister of Mauritius.
• Meeting with Mauritius’ President Dharam Gokhool, where he gifted Gangajal from the Maha Kumbh as a token of India’s spiritual heritage.

PM Modi Conferred with Mauritius’ Highest Civilian Honour

The Grand Commander of the Order of the Star and Key of the Indian Ocean

In a historic moment, PM Modi became the first Indian to receive Mauritius’ highest civilian honor, The Grand Commander of the Order of the Star and Key of the Indian Ocean. This marks the 21st international award conferred upon him by a foreign nation.

Mauritius’ Prime Minister Navinchandra Ramgoolam stated that PM Modi is only the fifth foreign national to receive this distinguished honor. In his acceptance speech, PM Modi dedicated the honor to the strong Indo-Mauritian bond, saying, “This is not just an individual honor but a tribute to the historic relationship between our nations.”

OCI Cards for Mauritius PM and Key Leaders

Strengthening India’s Diaspora Ties

In a special gesture, PM Modi announced the issuance of OCI (Overseas Citizen of India) cards to Mauritius’ Prime Minister Navin Ramgoolam and his spouse Veena Ramgoolam. This was part of India’s continued commitment to fostering strong ties with the Indian diaspora in Mauritius.

Earlier in the day, OCI cards were also presented to President Dharam Gokhool and First Lady Vrinda Gokhool. The OCI status grants lifelong visa-free travel, residency, and work rights in India, further strengthening Mauritius’ historical connection to India.

PM Modi Attends Mauritius National Day Celebrations

As the Chief Guest at Mauritius’ National Day celebrations, PM Modi reaffirmed India’s strong diplomatic and cultural ties with the island nation. During a special lunch hosted by President Gokhool, PM Modi expressed his appreciation for Mauritius’ warm hospitality and shared heritage.

In his speech, he highlighted the cultural bonds between the two nations, stating:

• “The Mauritian platter reflects the country’s diverse social fabric, carrying the sweetness of our friendship.”
• “This occasion is not just about celebration but a reaffirmation of our deep-rooted ties.”

PM Modi extended his best wishes for the prosperity and well-being of the people of Mauritius and emphasized India’s continued commitment to strengthening bilateral relations.

Cultural and Traditional Engagements

Paying Tribute to Mauritius’ Leaders

PM Modi paid respects to the founding father of Mauritius, Sir Seewoosagur Ramgoolam, and former PM Anerood Jugnauth by laying wreaths at their Samadhis. These tributes underscored India’s historical respect and admiration for Mauritius’ national leaders.

Traditional Bhojpuri Performance: Geet Gawai

PM Modi received a warm welcome from the Indian diaspora in Mauritius. Women from the community honored him through a traditional Bhojpuri performance called Geet Gawai, which was recognized by UNESCO as part of the Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity in 2016.

PM Modi’s Gifts to Mauritius Leaders

As a symbol of India’s cultural and agricultural wealth, PM Modi presented unique gifts to Mauritius’ leadership:

• Gangajal from the Maha Kumbh (to President Dharam Gokhool).
• Makhana (superfood from Bihar) (to Mauritius’ President).
• Banarasi saree in a Sadeli box (to First Lady Brinda Gokhool).

These gifts were a reflection of India’s traditional craftsmanship and spiritual heritage.

Inauguration of India-Funded Projects in Mauritius

PM Modi also focused on economic and infrastructural collaborations by inaugurating over 20 India-funded projects. These included:

• Civil Services College Building (constructed at a cost of $4.75 million).
• Area Health Centre and 20 Community Projects (costing approximately ₹7 crores).
• Sports and community-linked infrastructure projects, strengthening local development initiatives.

Additionally, PM Modi announced new major infrastructure projects aimed at democracy enhancement and capacity-building in Mauritius.

Summary of the News

Aspects	Details
Why in News?	PM Narendra Modi’s two-day state visit to Mauritius (March 11-12, 2025) strengthened bilateral ties through diplomatic, economic, and cultural engagements. He was honored with Mauritius’ highest civilian award and announced key initiatives, including OCI cards for Mauritian leaders and India-funded projects.
PM Modi’s Highest Civilian Honor	Conferred with The Grand Commander of the Order of the Star and Key of the Indian Ocean, Mauritius’ highest civilian honor. He is the first Indian and fifth foreign leader to receive this distinction.
Strengthening Diaspora Ties	OCI (Overseas Citizen of India) cards were granted to Mauritius’ PM Navinchandra Ramgoolam, his spouse Veena Ramgoolam, President Dharam Gokhool, and First Lady Vrinda Gokhool.
Diplomatic & Cultural Engagements	– PM Modi attended Mauritius’ National Day as the Chief Guest. – Paid tributes at the Samadhis of Sir Seewoosagur Ramgoolam and Anerood Jugnauth. – Gifted Gangajal, Makhana, and Banarasi saree to Mauritius’ leaders. – Received a traditional Bhojpuri Geet Gawai performance from the Indian diaspora.
India-Funded Projects	PM Modi inaugurated 20+ projects, including: – Civil Services College ($4.75 million). – Area Health Centre & 20 Community Projects (₹7 crores). – Sports and community infrastructure projects for local development.
Mauritius: A Key Partner	PM Modi emphasized Mauritius’ role as a bridge between India and the Global South, reaffirming historical and cultural ties. He described Mauritius as “not just a partner but a vital part of India’s extended family.”