PM Narendra Modi Receives Mauritius’ Highest Honor, Dedicates It to Indian Diaspora

Port Louis, 12th March 2025: Prime Minister Narendra Modi was honored with Mauritius’ highest national accolade on Wednesday during his visit to the island nation. Accepting the award at the National Day celebrations in Port Louis, Modi dedicated it to the Indian ancestors who migrated to Mauritius generations ago.

“People of Mauritius, I sincerely thank you for bestowing upon me this prestigious national recognition. This is not merely my honor but that of 1.4 billion Indians,” PM Modi expressed.

He further remarked, “I accept this recognition with deep gratitude and humility. I dedicate it to your ancestors who journeyed from India to Mauritius centuries ago, as well as to their descendants. Through their dedication and perseverance, they contributed immensely to Mauritius’ progress and enriched its cultural diversity. This honor is also a responsibility, and I reaffirm India’s commitment to further strengthening the strategic partnership between our two nations.”

During his visit, PM Modi met with former Prime Minister of Mauritius, Pravind Kumar Jugnauth. “Had a good meeting with former Prime Minister of Mauritius, Pravind Kumar Jugnauth,” he posted on X along with photos of their discussion. He also met Lesjongard, an MP and Leader of the Opposition in Mauritius, stating, “We had a constructive exchange of views on aspects relating to boosting India-Mauritius friendship.”

Earlier in the day, PM Modi extended National Day wishes to the people of Mauritius. “National Day wishes to the people of Mauritius. Looking forward to today’s programs, including taking part in the celebrations,” he posted on X. Mauritian Prime Minister Navinchandra Ramgoolam announced on Tuesday that PM Modi would receive the nation’s highest honor. At a community event, PM Modi described Mauritius as a bridge between India and the Global South, highlighting the historical and cultural ties between the two nations.

“Mauritius is like ‘Mini India’,” he told the Indian diaspora at the event, which was attended by Ramgoolam, his wife, and cabinet ministers. “This bond is deep and strongly rooted in history, heritage, and the human spirit.”

Indian Navy Contingent Participates in National Day Parade

The Indian Navy contingent joined the National Day parade in Mauritius, with PM Modi saluting as the marching unit passed by, carrying a placard with “India” written on it and holding the tricolor. An Indian Navy helicopter also flew past the parade as thousands watched.

The contingent was part of the crew of INS Imphal, which arrived in Mauritius for the celebrations. The ship took part in cultural and training exchanges, including a joint Exclusive Economic Zone (EEZ) surveillance exercise with the Mauritian Coast Guard.

Captain Kamal Kumar Choudhury said, “It is a matter of immense pride and honor for me and my crew to represent India at the 57th National Day celebration of the Republic of Mauritius. This follows a long-standing tradition of Indian warships and aircraft participating in these celebrations over the years.”

PM Modi’s Second Time as Chief Guest at Mauritius’ National Day

This marks the second occasion PM Modi has been the Chief Guest at Mauritius’ National Day, having first attended in 2015. This rare distinction highlights India’s special relationship with Mauritius, rooted in shared history, culture, and diaspora ties.

In recent years, PM Modi has been invited to significant global events, including France’s Bastille Day Parade in 2023, Nepal’s Buddha Jayanti celebrations in 2022, Bangladesh’s National Day in 2021, and Sri Lanka’s International Vesak Day in 2017. Each of these visits underscores India’s expanding role in global diplomacy and cultural leadership.

Inauguration of Atal Bihari Vajpayee Institute of Public Service and Innovation

PM Modi and Mauritius Prime Minister Navinchandra Ramgoolam jointly inaugurated the Atal Bihari Vajpayee Institute of Public Service and Innovation on Wednesday. Modi stated that the institute would serve as a hub for learning and research.

In a post on X, he wrote, “Prime Minister Navinchandra Ramgoolam and I jointly inaugurated the Atal Bihari Vajpayee Institute of Public Service and Innovation. It will serve as a hub for learning, research, and public service, fostering new ideas and leadership for the future. It also strengthens our shared commitment to progress and development.”

Despite heavy rainfall, thousands of Mauritians gathered to witness PM Modi accept the prestigious award on National Day.

“I express my heartfelt gratitude for being conferred the highest national award of Mauritius. This is not just my honor; it is the honor of 1.4 billion Indians. It is a tribute to the centuries-old cultural and historical bonds of kinship between India and Mauritius. It acknowledges our shared commitment to regional peace, progress, security, and sustainable development. And it symbolizes the shared hopes and aspirations of the Global South,” PM Modi said.

Dedicating the award to the Indian diaspora in Mauritius, he added, “I accept this award with humility and gratitude. I dedicate it to your ancestors who came from India to Mauritius centuries ago and to all their generations. Through their hard work, they wrote a golden chapter in the development of Mauritius and contributed to its vibrant diversity.”

PM Modi reaffirmed India’s commitment to enhancing strategic ties with Mauritius, stating, “I also embrace this honor as a responsibility and reaffirm our commitment that we will continue to make every effort to enhance the India-Mauritius Strategic Partnership to greater heights.”