India’s Shipyards Propel Nation Towards Global Shipbuilding Leadership: Minister

Minister Sarbananda Sonowal declared that Indian shipyards are driving Prime Minister Modi’s vision to make India a top shipbuilder globally.

Hooghly Cochin Shipyard Limited (HCSL), a wholly-owned subsidiary of CSL, recently secured a contract with Heritage River Journeys Pvt Ltd to construct an 80-passenger luxury river cruise vessel for the Brahmaputra.

Sonowal tweeted that the contract represents a major milestone for ‘Make in India’ as HCSL begins building the second 80-passenger luxury river cruise vessel for the Brahmaputra.

He explained that by delivering world-class vessels, Indian shipyards are not only improving inland waterway transport but also shaping the nation’s maritime future.

Government data revealed a remarkable increase in passenger traffic on National Waterways. The numbers rose nearly fivefold, from 1.61 crore in 2023-24 to 7.64 crore in 2024-25.

Similarly, cargo movement on these waterways almost doubled over the last five years, from 83.6 million tonnes in 2020-21 to 145.84 million tonnes in 2024-25, reflecting the growing importance of inland water transport in India’s economy.

Jalvahak Scheme to Boost Inland Transport

Authorities introduced the Jalvahak scheme with an outlay of ₹95.42 crore for three years, from FY 2024-25 to FY 2026-27. This initiative provides financial incentives directly to cargo owners, covering up to 35 per cent of actual operating expenses for journeys via India’s inland waterways.

CSL recently signed a memorandum of understanding with HD Korea Shipbuilding and Offshore Engineering to enhance India’s shipbuilding capabilities.

The partnership merges CSL’s domestic expertise and infrastructure with HD Korea’s global technology and experience. It aims to produce advanced vessels and strengthen India’s maritime industry.

Minister Sonowal emphasised that India’s shipyards are pivotal in realising PM Modi’s vision of becoming a global shipbuilding hub.

Increasing investment, strategic collaborations, and government support for inland waterways will enhance the nation’s shipbuilding capacity and boost economic growth. These efforts will also help secure a leadership position in maritime transport and technology.

Initiatives like these demonstrate India’s commitment to integrating traditional shipbuilding expertise with modern technology. They also aim to create world-class vessels and solidify the country’s status on the global maritime map.

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