India's Unified Payments Interface (UPI) is set to become operational in Seychelles by the end of 2026, a move expected to make travel and everyday payments significantly easier for Indian tourists visiting the island nation. The announcement was made during Prime Minister Narendra Modi's state visit to Seychelles, which also focused on strengthening bilateral ties across several strategic and economic sectors.
Foreign Secretary Vikram Misri said the target is to have the UPI platform fully functional before the end of the year. The initiative is expected to simplify payments for Indian visitors while supporting Seychelles' growing digital economy.
UPI rollout to strengthen travel and digital connectivity
NDTV noted that, speaking during a special media briefing, Vikram Misri said Seychelles continues to be an important partner under India's Technical and Economic Cooperation Programme, with around 90 training slots utilised annually.
He confirmed that preparations are underway to operationalise UPI by the end of 2026. According to Misri, discussions are also taking place on expanding economic engagement between the two countries. Although bilateral trade remains modest, both sides believe there is scope to deepen commercial cooperation in sectors that are important to the Seychelles economy.
The introduction of UPI is expected to benefit Indian travellers by allowing seamless digital payments at participating businesses, reducing dependence on cash and foreign exchange transactions.
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Leaders discuss broader strategic partnership
Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Seychelles President Patrick Herminie held wide-ranging talks covering healthcare, education, renewable energy, digital transformation, maritime security, defence cooperation and sustainable development.
The Ministry of External Affairs said both leaders also reviewed regional developments in the Indian Ocean, including concerns over illegal fishing, piracy and drug trafficking. They expressed satisfaction over the progress of projects implemented under India's Special Economic Package and reaffirmed their commitment to expanding long-term cooperation.
The discussions highlighted India's continued support for Seychelles' development priorities while strengthening the strategic partnership between the two nations.
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Growing cooperation beyond tourism
According to NDTV, apart from meeting President Herminie, Prime Minister Modi also held discussions with Bernard Georges, the Leader of the Opposition in Seychelles' National Assembly. Sharing details of the meeting on social media, the Prime Minister described the India-Seychelles relationship as one that enjoys broad support across different sections of society.
The visit also resulted in the signing of several agreements, including the UPI implementation pact and a memorandum of understanding related to the Jan Aushadhi initiative.
Once operational, Seychelles will join a growing list of international destinations adopting India's digital payment ecosystem, making overseas travel increasingly convenient for Indian visitors while strengthening economic and technological cooperation between the two countries.
