India is aiming big in the shipbuilding and maritime sector, with Union Minister Sarbananda Sonowal announcing plans for a massive Rs 1.82 lakh crore investment. This move could help the country climb the ranks to become one of the world’s top maritime nations.
Speaking to NDTV Profit, Sonowal explained that the government will provide financial support to shipbuilders across India. This funding will help them construct vessels of all sizes, ensuring the nation stays ready for future challenges in global trade and shipping.
The minister’s vision is clear: Build a strong shipbuilding ecosystem from the ground up to place India among the global top five players. He highlighted the need for supply chain resilience, with small and medium enterprises (MSMEs) playing a key role in driving industry growth. Indian shipbuilders are already in discussions with international partners to attract more cooperation and investments.
Sonowal credited Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s leadership over the past 11 years for turning shipping into a vital pillar of India’s infrastructure. To boost skills and innovation, the government plans to set up specialized maritime technology institutions and dedicated shipbuilding and repair clusters nationwide.
One big win for self-reliance? Building ships in India could save the country nearly Rs 4.5 lakh crore. As global interest in India’s maritime industry heats up, achieving independence in shipbuilding has become a top national priority.
This comes on the heels of an exciting launch earlier this week. Sonowal flagged off India’s first fleet of electric heavy trucks with swappable batteries at the Nhava Sheva Distribution Terminal of Jawaharlal Nehru Port Authority (JNPA) in Navi Mumbai. This step ramps up sustainable logistics, making JNPA home to the largest EV truck fleet at any Indian port.
A new robust battery swapping station is now operational, cutting down on downtime and emissions. According to JNPA officials, the port aims to switch 90% of its 600 heavy trucks to electric vehicles by December 2026, paving the way for greener operations in India’s bustling maritime hubs.
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