New Delhi: AAGRAH X World Cultures Hub Forum hosted a dedicated research and academic dialogue on India–Seychelles relations at the High Commission of the Republic of Seychelles, New Delhi, bringing together diplomatic, academic and youth perspectives on the evolving bilateral partnership.
The session was graced by H.E. Ms. Lalatiana Accouche, High Commissioner of the Republic of Seychelles to India, and featured six original research presentations by young scholars. The academic session was chaired by Prof. Sushmita Rajwar, Centre for African Studies, Jawaharlal Nehru University, and Dr. Manish Karmwar, Department of African Studies, University of Delhi, who provided academic reflections on the presentations and their relevance to contemporary bilateral relations.
The research papers explored diverse dimensions of India–Seychelles cooperation: Utkarsh examined digital statecraft, cybersecurity, Digital Public Infrastructure and digital diplomacy; Amrendra explored cultural and educational diplomacy, youth mobility and academic exchange; Sakshi examined trade, investment, maritime connectivity, tourism and the Blue Economy; Esha focused on Seychelles’ strategic significance in the Western Indian Ocean, maritime security, Maritime Domain Awareness, SAGAR and the Indo-Pacific; Vridhi explored Blue Economy cooperation, youth employment, marine conservation and blue entrepreneurship; while Radhika presented a comparative study of governance models in India and Seychelles, highlighting institutional structures, public administration and opportunities for mutual learning.
Collectively, the presentations demonstrated the breadth of India–Seychelles relations and the potential of youth-led academic research to contribute to contemporary diplomatic engagement.
Speaking during the programme, Ms. Himanshi Mehra, Founder, AAGRAH – Association for Actionable Governance, Research and Academic Horizons, highlighted the enduring India–Seychelles friendship and the importance of celebrating it through knowledge, dialogue and academic engagement. She recalled Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s participation as Guest of Honour at Seychelles’ 50th Independence celebrations on 29 June 2026, marking a landmark moment that coincided with the 50th anniversary of India–Seychelles diplomatic relations.
Mr. Simarjot Singh Kochar, Founder, World Cultures Hub Forum, highlighted that while India and Seychelles may be separated by the Indian Ocean, they are united by people, culture and shared values, with the Indian diaspora serving as a living bridge. He emphasised that strong bilateral relations are strengthened not only through governments, but through people-to-people connections, youth engagement and cultural understanding.
As India approaches its 80th Independence Day, Ms. Mehra emphasized the importance of honouring Seychelles as a valued partner and friend of India. Proudly invoking the spirit of “We, the People of India – We, the People of Bharat,” she expressed gratitude to Seychelles for providing the platform to celebrate this enduring bond.
Drawing inspiration from “Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam – the world is one family,” the initiative seeks to strengthen international partnerships through academic exchange, cultural understanding and shared learning, while creating meaningful opportunities for young researchers to engage with India’s international partnerships.
The programme was strengthened by the valued support of its partners; Maharishi University of Information Technology: Supporting Partner; Mata Sundri College for Women, University of Delhi: Creative Coverage Partner; and Ferrera Date Cola: Networking Lounge Partner.
The programme concluded with reflections from the academic chairs, distribution of certificates to the presenters and interaction among researchers, academics and dignitaries. Through this initiative, AAGRAH X WCHF reaffirmed its commitment to research-driven platforms connecting young scholars with diplomatic institutions and global policy conversations.