New Delhi: Defence Minister Rajnath Singh recently highlighted India’s rise as a key hub for ship repair and maintenance in the Indo-Pacific region. This shift is fueled by a growing shipbuilding industry that now delivers world-class naval platforms.
At the ‘Samudra Utkarsh’ seminar, Singh pointed out that more foreign ships are seeking complex repairs at Indian shipyards. This trend signals increased global trust in India’s technological abilities and competitiveness.
Indian shipyards, like Garden Reach Shipbuilders and Mazagon Dock Shipbuilders, are now capable of producing advanced defensive platforms. These facilities are crafting stealth frigates, destroyers, and anti-submarine vessels, showcasing India’s growing expertise in naval technology.
Singh emphasized that India stands out as one of the few countries capable of designing sophisticated warships. He mentioned that Goa Shipyard Limited is building high-tech offshore patrol vessels, and MDL’s Kalvari-class submarines illustrate India’s competence in underwater warfare.
Singh also noted that Indian shipyards are contributing significantly to the global maritime sector. Cochin Shipyard Limited has delivered advanced passenger vessels and is building the world’s most advanced deep-sea mining support vessel for ISRO. Similarly, Larsen and Toubro Shipbuilding is exporting high-speed patrol crafts.
With a focus on self-reliance, Singh affirmed that every ship under construction for the Indian Navy and Coast Guard is being built locally. He expressed optimism that India’s commercial fleet will also be completely domestically produced soon.
Several shipyards aim for 100% indigenous content within this decade. They are not just focusing on defense but also designing specialized vessels for research, fishing, and pollution control. Singh noted the shift to eco-friendly technologies, contributing to a sustainable maritime economy.
Reflecting on India’s rich maritime history, Singh referenced archaeological findings from the Indus Valley Civilisation, which date back to 2500 BC. These discoveries at Lothal show advanced port cities with sophisticated dockyards.
Recent data supports this government focus on shipbuilding. According to a report by the Ministry of Defence, India is expected to increase its shipbuilding capacity by 50% over the next five years, showcasing the industry’s potential growth.
The positive reactions from the maritime community indicate strong support for this initiative. Social media discussions are buzzing with optimism about India’s maritime future, highlighting the country’s capabilities.
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INDIAN SHIPYARDS, COCHIN SHIPYARD LIMITED, INDIA MARITIME GROWTH, RAJNATH AT SAMUDRA UTKARSH SEMINAR, SHIPS FROM FRIENDLY FOREIGN NATIONS INCREASINGLY OPTING FOR INDIAN SHIPYARDS FOR COMPLEX REFITS
