Historic First: PM Modi Receives Mauritius’ Highest Civilian Honour!
On March 11, Prime Minister Narendra Modi became the first Indian to receive Mauritius’ highest civilian award, the Grand Commander of the Order of the Star and Key of the Indian Ocean, presented by Mauritius’ Prime Minister, Navinchandra Ramgoolam. India and Mauritius share a deep historical connection spanning nearly 300 years, with a special bond between India’s leaders and the Mauritian Prime Minister’s family that dates back over a century. Indians first arrived in Mauritius in the 1700s, and Mahatma Gandhi visited the island in 1901 while traveling from South Africa to India.
During his stay, he interacted with the Indian laborers, mostly from Bihar, and shared three key messages: the importance of education, political awareness, and maintaining strong ties with India. His visit played a significant role in empowering the Indian diaspora in Mauritius. Modi’s recognition further strengthens the longstanding relationship between the two nations.
Historic First: PM Modi Receives Mauritius’ Highest Civilian Honour!
On March 11, Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi made history by becoming the first Indian citizen to receive Mauritius’ highest civilian honor—the Grand Commander of the Order of the Star and Key of the Indian Ocean. The prestigious award was presented to him by Mauritius’ Prime Minister, Navinchandra Ramgoolam, during a special ceremony. This recognition highlights the strong friendship and shared history between India and Mauritius, which spans nearly three centuries.
A Bond Rooted in History
India and Mauritius have maintained close ties for over 300 years. Their relationship extends beyond diplomacy, encompassing deep cultural and historical connections. Interestingly, the friendship between Indian leaders and Mauritius’ current Prime Minister, Navinchandra Ramgoolam, as well as his father, Sir Seewoosagur Ramgoolam (the nation’s first Prime Minister), dates back more than a century. This long-standing relationship reflects the mutual respect and collaboration between the two nations.
Indians in Mauritius: A Legacy Since the 1700s
Long before Mahatma Gandhi’s famous visit in 1901, Indians had already established themselves in Mauritius. Historical records indicate that Indian settlers began arriving on the island as early as the 1700s. Many of them were laborers from the Indian state of Bihar, brought to Mauritius during British colonial rule to work on sugarcane plantations. Over time, these communities flourished, preserving their traditions while contributing to the island’s multicultural identity.
Gandhi’s Visit and His Timeless Messages
In 1901, Mahatma Gandhi, then a young lawyer, stopped in Mauritius for 18 days (October 29 to November 15) while traveling from South Africa to India. Though his stay was brief, his impact was profound. During his visit, Gandhi met with Indian laborers, most of whom were from Bihar, and shared three crucial lessons:
- Education – He urged families to prioritize schooling for their children, believing it was the key to empowerment.
- Political Awareness – Gandhi encouraged workers to understand their rights and participate in shaping their future.
- Connection with India – He stressed the importance of staying culturally and emotionally linked to their homeland.
These ideas inspired the Indian community in Mauritius to establish schools, engage in social reforms, and strengthen their ties with India.
Why This Award Matters
The decision to honor PM Modi underscores India’s role as a trusted partner for Mauritius. Over the years, India has supported Mauritius in various sectors, including healthcare, education, and infrastructure. For instance, India assisted in the development of the Metro Express rail network and provided COVID-19 vaccines during the pandemic. The award also acknowledges Modi’s efforts to strengthen ties with global Indian communities, including the large Indian-origin population in Mauritius.
A Shared Future
Today, nearly 70% of Mauritius’ population has Indian ancestry, making cultural exchanges and traditions—such as Diwali and Holi—an integral part of the island’s identity. The Ramgoolam family, respected leaders in Mauritius, symbolize this enduring connection. Sir Seewoosagur Ramgoolam, the father of the current Prime Minister, collaborated closely with Indian leaders after Mauritius gained independence in 1968, laying the foundation for modern cooperation.
PM Modi’s recognition by Mauritius is not just a personal achievement but a celebration of the centuries-old bond between the two nations. It serves as a reminder that relationships built on shared history, mutual respect, and people-to-people ties can withstand the test of time. As both countries continue to collaborate, this award stands as a testament to their unbreakable friendship.