Prime Minister Narendra Modi is set to meet Jonathan, the world’s oldest living land animal, during his official visit to Seychelles. The meeting will take place at the Seychelles National Botanical Gardens, where the Prime Minister is also scheduled to plant a tree, highlighting India’s commitment to environmental conservation and sustainable development.
PM Modi has been invited as the Guest of Honour for Seychelles’ National Day celebrations, with the visit coinciding with the 50th anniversary of diplomatic ties between the two countries. Alongside ceremonial events, he is expected to hold high-level discussions with Seychelles’ leadership to strengthen cooperation across key sectors, including maritime security, the blue economy, climate resilience and capacity building.
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Who is Jonathan?
Jonathan is a Seychelles giant tortoise believed to have been born in 1832, making him around 194 years old. Recognised by Guinness World Records as the world’s oldest living land animal, Jonathan has witnessed nearly two centuries of world history.
Despite his remarkable age, Jonathan remains in good health under the care of veterinarians. Although he has developed cataracts and has a weakened sense of smell, he continues to thrive and is one of the biggest attractions at the Seychelles National Botanical Gardens. His extraordinary lifespan has also made him an important subject for scientists researching ageing and longevity.
Significance of PM Modi’s visit
The Seychelles National Botanical Gardens will be one of the key stops during PM Modi’s visit. Besides meeting Jonathan, the Prime Minister will participate in a tree-planting ceremony symbolising environmental protection and sustainable growth.
The visit comes during the golden jubilee year of diplomatic relations between India and Seychelles and is expected to further deepen bilateral ties. Discussions between the two nations are likely to focus on expanding cooperation in strategic, economic and developmental areas while reinforcing their longstanding partnership in the Indian Ocean region.
