In A First, India To Build Polar Research Vessel

Kolkata-based Garden Reach Shipbuilders and Engineers Limited (GRSE) and Norway's Kongsberg Oslo have signed anMoU, paving the way for India to build its first-ever Polar Research Vessel (PRV) indigenously.

According to the Union Minister of Ports, Shipping & Waterways (MoPSW) SarbanandaSonowal, it is not just a vessel but a legacy—a legacy of innovation, exploration, and international cooperation that will inspire generations to come. India is advancing its capabilities in polar and ocean research, and contributing to global efforts to address pressing challenges like climate change. The vessel will be equipped with the latest scientific equipment, enabling our researchers to explore the oceans' depths, study marine ecosystems, and unlock new insights into our planet's past, present, and future. "This will be a testament to India's critical shipbuilding capabilities — boosting further 'Make In India' initiative of the government. I congratulate all stakeholders for their dedication and look forward to the day when this Polar Research Vessel sets sail, carrying India's aspirations to the farthest reaches of the globe," he said.

The MoU between GRSE and Knogsberg marks an important milestone for India's shipbuilding sector as it will receive design expertise for developing the PRV while taking into account the requirement of the National Centre for Polar and Ocean Research (NCOPR), who will use it for research activities in the polar and southern ocean realms. GRSE, with its rich experience in constructing complex maritime platforms like warships, survey & research vessels, will build this PRV in its yard in Kolkata, ensuring a boost to the Government's 'Make In India' initiative. The leadership of Kongsberg as well as GRSE joined the Union Minister and senior government officials from Norway and India at the event.

India's vision of "Growth for All," articulated as SAGAR (Security and Growth for All in the Region) leverages India's vast coastline, strategic location, and maritime heritage to drive economic prosperity, enhance regional security, and ensure sustainable development for all stakeholders. This entails economic cooperation, capacity building, disaster management, information sharing, and environmental stewardship. Upgrading from the SAGAR initiative, India's PM NarendraModiji announced MAHASAGAR — which is Mutual and Holistic Advancement for Security Across the Regions, signaling further consolidation and an expanded approach to holistic maritime engagement & growth."

Indian government's outlook on Shipping and Ocean Business is to promote mutual and holistic growth, through robust international cooperation, and a strong commitment to sustainability and green initiatives.

India's maritime sector is on a transformative path, driven by sustainability, innovation, and global partnerships. We invite greater collaboration with Norway to build a green, smart, and resilient maritime ecosystem. With major investments in green ports, alternative fuels like green hydrogen, and strategic incentives, India aims to become a global leader in shipbuilding. Our growing partnership with Norway — reflected in Indian shipyards delivering next-gen vessels to Norwegian firms — showcases India's emergence as a trusted, future-ready hub for cost-effective and sustainable maritime solutions. Let's strengthen this momentum together, said the Union Minister.

During the meeting, Shri SarbanandaSonowal highlighted key areas for India-Norway maritime collaboration. He said that Indian shipyards currently hold 11% of the Norwegian Shipowners' Association (NSA)'s order book. He urged for further expansion of orders, including leveraging India's ship-breaking credit note scheme. Emphasising India's robust seafaring workforce—ranked second in NSA's global fleet—he called for broader recruitment partnerships. He also underlined the significant investment opportunities available under India's flagship Sagarmalaprogramme and the $2.9 billion Maritime Development Fund, offering incentives across shipbuilding, ports, and logistics.