Sonowal lauds HSL;s green tug initiative

Union Minister for Ports, Shipping and Waterways Sarbananda Sonowal lauded the efforts of Hindustan Shipyard Limited (HSL) in building hydrogen tugs.

During a visit to the yard, Cmde Hemant Khatri, CMD of HSL, briefed the Minister on the shipyard’s 85-year contribution to supporting India’s maritime sector, highlighting the company's modern capabilities and strategic direction. Key focus areas included the development of green tugs, hydrogen fuel cell-powered vessels, and readiness to build MR (medium range) vessels and platform supply vessels in response to growing demand.

Commending HSL’s technological progress and service to the nation, Sonowal stated, “HSL is doing a remarkable job for the nation,” lauding its decades-long contribution to maritime growth. He strongly supported the hydrogen tug initiative under the 'MakeInIndia' campaign, urging the team to set a benchmark through exemplary performance, operational efficiency, and global competitiveness.

Calling on HSL to rise to the occasion, he said, “Put your ability, potential, and possibilities into the right perspective so that the nation can grow faster and be counted as a leading shipbuilding nation.”

The visit reinforced India’s maritime leadership goals under BIMSTEC, showcasing HSL as a key player in the Bay of Bengal region. The Union Minister’s support highlights the government’s proactive role in promoting sustainable marine innovation and expanding India’s shipbuilding capabilities., HSL officials said.

Sonowal, who was here to attend the BIMSTEC Pors Conclave, along with Visakhapatnam Port Authority Chairman M. Angamuthu and senior officials from the Ministry of Ports, Shipping and Waterways (MoPSW).