Former President of Mauritius bats for closer cooperation between India and Mauritius

Former President of Mauritius Prithvirajsing Roopun addresses the 83rd birth anniversary celebrations of former Kerala Chief Minister Oommen Chandy in Puthupally on Saturday. | Photo credit: VISHNU PRATHAP

Former President of Mauritius Prithvirajsing Roopun has called for greater cooperation between India and Mauritius to address issues such as brain drain, unemployment and inequality. Addressing a function at Puthupally here on Saturday to commemorate the 83rd birth anniversary of former Kerala Chief Minister Oommen Chandy, Mr. Roopun recalled the historical ties between India and Mauritius.

He also pointed out the similarities between Mauritius and Keralam. “Both have high development indices. Both regions have multiracial societies living in complete harmony. Soon we will be celebrating Diwali in Mauritius. The celebrations will spread to churches and other communities. And then Christmas will come and all communities will join in the celebrations. Keralam too has a similar culture,” he said.

Mr. Roopun also started ‘Vidyakiran’, a project led by Oommen Chandy Foundation and MGM Group of Institutions, which provides free education to 100 school and college students every year. Lecturer Thiruvanchoor Radhakrishnan presented the second Oommen Chandy award to Mr. Roopun.

Among those present were Water Resources Minister Mons Joseph, Chandy Oommen, MLA, Kottayam District Panchayat President Joshy Philip, Congress leader KC Joseph, Mariyamma Oommen, wife of Oommen Chandy, and Maria Oommen, his daughter.

Published – 31 Oct 2026 20:47 IST