Are India's Shipyards Fueling PM Modi's Ambition to Become a Leading Shipbuilder?
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Synopsis
India's shipyards are taking a pivotal role in transforming the nation into a global shipbuilding leader, as emphasized by Minister Sarbananda Sonowal. With significant contracts and government initiatives, the future of inland waterways and shipbuilding looks promising.
Key Takeaways
- India's shipyards are critical to achieving PM Modi's vision of becoming a top shipbuilder.
- The contract with Heritage River Journeys represents a significant development in luxury river cruising.
- Increased passenger traffic on National Waterways underscores the potential of inland transport.
- The Jalvahak scheme aims to boost the inland water transport sector financially.
- Partnerships like the MoU with HD Korea enhance shipbuilding technology and expertise.
New Delhi, Dec 13 (NationPress) The Minister of Ports, Shipping and Waterways, Sarbananda Sonowal, articulated on Saturday that India's shipyards are instrumental in realizing Prime Minister Narendra Modi's aspiration to position India as a premier shipbuilder globally.
The Hooghly Cochin Shipyard Limited (HCSL), a fully owned subsidiary of CSL, has entered into an agreement with Heritage River Journeys Pvt Ltd to construct an 80-passenger luxury river cruise vessel specifically for the Brahmaputra.
Sonowal shared on X, stating, "Unstoppable momentum in Indian Shipbuilding! A significant milestone for ‘Make in India’ as HCSL signs the contract for the 2nd 80-pax luxury river cruise vessel for the Brahmaputra."
He further emphasized, "Our shipyards are fueling PM Narendra Modi's vision of establishing India as a top shipbuilder worldwide. By producing world-class vessels, we are enhancing inland waterways and effectively designing, constructing, and navigating our future."
The government previously reported a remarkable increase in total passenger traffic on National Waterways (NWs) in India, soaring nearly five-fold—from 1.61 crore in 2023-24 to 7.64 crore in 2024-25.
Moreover, cargo movement on national waterways has nearly doubled over the last five years, escalating from 83.6 million tonnes in 2020-21 to 145.84 million tonnes in 2024-25.
To bolster the inland water transport sector, the government has unveiled the Jalvahak scheme with an allocation of Rs 95.42 crore for a span of 3 years, from FY 2024-25 to FY 2026-27.
This scheme extends financial incentives directly to cargo owners, covering up to 35 percent of the total actual operating expenses incurred during waterway journeys.
In a significant boost to India's shipbuilding ambitions, CSL has recently signed a memorandum of understanding (MoU) with HD Korea Shipbuilding and Offshore Engineering for a long-term strategic partnership in shipbuilding.
This collaboration aims to merge CSL’s rich heritage, infrastructure, and domestic knowledge with HD Korea’s cutting-edge technology and international experience, marking a pivotal advancement in enhancing India’s shipbuilding prowess.
Point of View
This development underscores the strategic importance of enhancing India's maritime capabilities. The government's proactive measures in promoting shipbuilding and inland waterways not only align with economic growth but also boost India's stature on the global maritime stage.
NationPress
13/12/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the significance of the recent contract signed by HCSL?
The contract signifies a major advancement in India's shipbuilding industry, as it highlights the commitment to producing luxury vessels and enhancing the country's maritime infrastructure.
How does the Jalvahak scheme support the inland water transport sector?
The Jalvahak scheme provides substantial financial incentives to cargo owners, encouraging the use of waterways for transport and thereby promoting sustainable logistics.
What impact has the increase in passenger traffic on National Waterways had?
The increase in passenger traffic demonstrates a growing recognition of inland waterways as a viable and efficient mode of transport, which can alleviate pressure on roads and railways.
