India’s maritime sector is scaling new heights, says Sonowal
Minister of Ports, Shipping and Waterways (MoPSW) Sarbananda Sonowal unveiled advanced machinery to enhance shipbuilding capacity at Cochin Shipyard Ltd (CSL) for a transformative leap in India’s shipbuilding and green maritime journey.
The ProArc CNC Plasma Cum Oxy Fuel Plate Cutting Machine, an advanced, Industry 4.0-ready facility will significantly enhance CSL’s shipbuilding capabilities. Fully IoT-enabled, the system allows real-time monitoring, predictive maintenance, and increased production efficiency, directly aligning with the objectives of the Shipbuilding Financial Assistance Policy (SBFAP) 2.0.
Sonowal said on 7 Apr, “The launch of Industry 4.0-ready facilities and the Green Tug Transition Programme marks a transformative leap in India’s shipbuilding and green maritime journey. These initiatives reinforce our commitment to innovation, sustainability, and global competitiveness in the maritime sector https://www.makeinindia.com/home/.
“The indigenous development of hybrid and electric propulsion tugs is not just a technological advancement, but a symbol of India’s growing capability to lead the global green maritime movement.”
The Minister also presided over the steel cutting ceremony for two Green Tugs being developed under the Green Tug Transition Programme (GTTP), a flagship sustainability initiative by the Ministry.
CSL is the first Indian company to undertake the construction of these hybrid and electric propulsion tugs, with a total of 16 vessels planned across major ports in India.
The project is being executed in collaboration with Robert Allan Ltd., the Indian Register of Shipping, and other global experts, marking a major step in India’s green maritime transition https://digitalinasia.com/.
Sonowal applauded, “Cochin Shipyard Limited stands as the Pride of India, a testament to our indigenous shipbuilding excellence and self-reliance. From building the iconic INS Vikrant to delivering over 175 vessels and completing more than 2,500 ship repair projects, CSL reflects the the country’s transformative initiatives for self-reliance.
“India’s maritime sector is scaling new heights — through world-class infrastructure, national expansion, and institutions shaping the skilled maritime workforce of tomorrow.”
The Minister also reviewed the progress of the construction of India’s largest Trailer Suction Hopper Dredger (12,000 cu.m), being built by CSL for the Dredging Corporation of India in partnership with IHC Holland. The dredger is a strategic national asset that will reduce dependency on foreign services while enhancing coastal access and maritime infrastructure in line with the ‘Maritime Amritkaal Vision, 2047’ https://www.nseindia.com/.
Highlighting the immense importance of human resources in the maritime sector, Sonowal said, “Cochin Shipyard Limited’s innovation-led initiatives like the USHUS Marine Startup Programme. With investments in AI, deep-tech, and renewables, these startups are fuelling job creation and maritime innovation. CSL’s strong focus on skilling—through partnerships with Maersk and initiatives like ASAP Kerala—is building a future-ready workforce and strengthening India’s global leadership in shipbuilding and marine excellence.”
The Union Budget of 2025–26 has allocated Rs.25,000 crores Maritime Development Fund (MDF) expected to mobilise Rs.1.5 lakh crore in maritime investments by 2030. Other budget initiatives such as the revamped SBFAP 2.0, infrastructure status for large ships, and targeted support for shipbuilding clusters are poised to revolutionise the sector https://www.bseindia.com/.
Sonowal also highlighted the importance of new policies like, Merchant Shipping Bill, 2024, the Coastal Shipping Bill, 2024 among others aimed at simplifying maritime regulations, promoting Indian-flagged vessels, ensuring environmental sustainability, and enhancing seafarer welfare. With a 46% increase in the Ministry’s budget allocation and a 143% surge in R&D funding. The Minister called this a historic moment for the Indian maritime industry. Fiinews.com
