Will India Be Among the World's Top 10 Shipbuilding Nations by 2030?
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Synopsis
India's ambitious shipbuilding industry aims for a top 10 global position by 2030, with significant government initiatives driving growth in clean energy and port modernization. This transformative vision may redefine India's economic landscape and global standing.
Key Takeaways
- India aims for top 10 shipbuilding rank by 2030.
- Green Hydrogen Pilot Project inaugurated at VOC Port.
- Thousands of jobs to be created through new initiatives.
- Tamil Nadu identified as a key economic player.
- Significant investments in port modernization in Tamil Nadu.
New Delhi, Sep 6 (NationPress) India is set to join the ranks of the world's top 10 shipbuilding nations by 2030 and aims for a position within the top five by 2047, as stated by the Union Minister of Ports, Shipping and Waterways (MoPSW), Sarbananda Sonowal.
The vision of Viksit Bharat by 2047 emphasizes speed, scale, sustainability, and self-reliance,” he remarked.
During the inauguration of India’s first port-based Green Hydrogen Pilot Project at VO Chidambaranar (VOC) Port in Tamil Nadu, which signifies a significant advancement in India’s clean energy transition, the minister noted that these initiatives will create thousands of job opportunities, draw global investments, and establish Tamil Nadu as a pivotal player in India’s economic ambitions.
“Under the visionary leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, we are making remarkable progress towards our objective of becoming one of the world’s top 10 shipbuilding nations by 2030, and one of the top 5 by 2047,” Sonowal emphasized.
This facility, built at a cost of Rs 3.87 crore, will harness green hydrogen to power streetlights and an electric vehicle charging station within the port area. With this achievement, VOC Port has become the inaugural port in India to produce green hydrogen.
Sonowal also laid the groundwork for a pilot green methanol bunkering and refueling facility at a cost of Rs 35.34 crore.
In alignment with the proposed Coastal Green Shipping Corridor between Kandla and Tuticorin, this initiative is projected to position VOC Port as a significant green bunkering hub in southern India.
Additional projects unveiled include a 400 KW rooftop solar power plant, increasing the port’s rooftop solar capacity to 1.04 MW, the highest among Indian ports, and a Rs 24.5 crore link conveyor linking Coal Jetty-I to the port stack yard, augmenting efficiency by 0.72 MMTPA.
Sonowal also initiated the foundation stones for a 6 MW wind farm, a Rs 90 crore multi-cargo berth, a 3.37 km four-lane road, and the Tamil Nadu Maritime Heritage Museum.
The minister noted that Tamil Nadu’s three major ports — Chennai, Kamarajar, and VOC — have witnessed transformative growth under the Sagarmala initiative, with 98 projects worth Rs 93,715 crore undertaken in the last 11 years, of which 50 have already been completed.
“This is unprecedented growth. Over Rs 16,000 crore has been invested in modernizing and enhancing the capacity of these ports alone,” he stated.
Point of View
India's ambitions in shipbuilding reflect a strategic move towards self-reliance and sustainability. The government’s commitment to enhancing infrastructure and promoting renewable energy sources indicates a robust vision for future economic growth. It is essential to evaluate the impact of these initiatives not only on India's maritime capabilities but also on its standing in the global economy.
NationPress
20/09/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the timeline for India's shipbuilding ambitions?
India aims to be among the top 10 shipbuilding nations by 2030 and among the top five by 2047.
What projects are contributing to this growth?
Key projects include the Green Hydrogen Pilot Project at VOC Port and several other infrastructure developments aimed at enhancing port capabilities.
How will these initiatives impact the economy?
These initiatives are expected to create thousands of jobs, attract global investments, and boost India's economic aspirations.
What role does Tamil Nadu play in this vision?
Tamil Nadu, with its major ports, is positioned as a key contributor to India's shipbuilding ambitions and clean energy transition.
What investments have been made in Tamil Nadu's ports?
Over Rs 16,000 crore has been invested in modernization and capacity enhancement of Tamil Nadu's major ports under the Sagarmala initiative.
