In a landmark move to boost India’s maritime manufacturing capabilities, the Indian government has announced plans to develop eight mega shipbuilding clusters along the nation’s extensive coastline. This transformative project aims to position India as a global hub for ship construction, repair, and associated services.
The initiative includes the creation of five new greenfield clusters in Andhra Pradesh, Odisha, Tamil Nadu, Gujarat, and Maharashtra, as well as the upgradation of three existing brownfield shipyards at Vadinar, Kandla (Gujarat), and near Cochin Port (Kerala).
To fast-track development, state governments have set up special purpose vehicles (SPVs) and allocated land for the projects. Work on essential connectivity infrastructure—roads, rail links, and marine access—is already underway.
The shipbuilding clusters will not just focus on vessel construction, but also include integrated ecosystems supporting:
- Component manufacturing
- Marine insurance
- Leasing and financing
- Bunkering and fuel services
In line with its global ambitions, India is actively engaging with international partners, especially from South Korea, Japan, and Scandinavia, known for their advanced shipbuilding technologies.
The entire program is expected to draw investments of over ₹2 lakh crore (~$24 billion) over the next 5 to 6 years, according to preliminary reports.
Key Highlights
- India to build 8 shipbuilding mega-clusters across strategic coastal states.
- 5 greenfield sites: Andhra Pradesh, Odisha, Tamil Nadu, Gujarat, Maharashtra.
- 3 brownfield upgrades: Vadinar, Kandla (Gujarat) and near Cochin (Kerala).
- SPVs formed by state governments; land already identified.
- Infrastructure work underway: roads, rail, and marine links.
- Integrated approach: from ship manufacturing to marine services.
- Global tie-ups underway with South Korea, Japan & Scandinavia.
- Investment of ₹2 lakh crore planned over 5–6 years.