On November 25, Defence Minister Rajnath Singh emphasized India’s growing shipbuilding industry during his speech at the Samudra Utkarsh seminar in New Delhi. He urged global partners to collaborate with India in developing next-generation maritime capabilities.
Singh highlighted India’s diverse shipbuilding potential, noting it can produce everything from aircraft carriers to research vessels. He believes this positions India as a future global hub for shipbuilding and maritime innovation.
He referred to Indian shipyards as “vital pillars” of the Blue Economy, not just as industrial sites but as symbols of maritime confidence. India’s shipbuilding ecosystem combines efforts from both public and private sectors, supported by numerous MSMEs, which create a strong supply chain in steel, electronics, and combat systems.
“What sets India apart is our fully integrated shipbuilding ecosystem,” Singh said. He mentioned flagship projects like INS Vikrant and Kalvari-class submarines, showcasing India’s growing technological prowess. All naval and Coast Guard vessels being built are now produced domestically, aligning with Prime Minister Modi’s vision of Aatmanirbhar Bharat.
According to recent data, India has 262 ongoing indigenous naval projects, with some shipyards aiming for 100% domestic production in the near future. Singh noted that foreign vessels increasingly seek repairs and upgrades in Indian shipyards, showing global trust in India’s capabilities.
Additionally, there’s a rising focus on sustainable shipbuilding practices. The integration of green technology and AI is transforming shipyard operations for better efficiency. Singh also reflected on India’s rich maritime history, linking ancient shipbuilding practices to contemporary advances. He mentioned India’s role in global humanitarian missions, like Operation Samudra Setu during the pandemic, where Indian ships provided critical aid.
The seminar also featured the launch of a coffee-table book, “Shipyards of Bharat,” and a 10-year roadmap for AI integration in shipbuilding. Senior military officials, including Chief of Defence Staff General Anil Chauhan, were present, showcasing how far India has come in maritime technology.
This focus on collaboration, innovation, and sustainability positions India to take on a significant role in global shipbuilding in the coming years.
