Local tug manufacturing a symbol of India's growing green maritime capabilities: Minister

IANS April 8, 2025 147 views

India is making significant strides in green maritime technology through innovative shipbuilding initiatives. The Cochin Shipyard's Green Tug Transition Programme represents a transformative approach to sustainable maritime infrastructure. Minister Sarbananda Sonowal highlighted the project as a symbol of technological advancement and national self-reliance. These hybrid and electric propulsion tugs demonstrate India's commitment to leading global maritime innovation.

"The launch of Industry 4.0-ready facilities and the Green Tug Transition Programme marks a transformative leap in India's shipbuilding and green maritime journey" - Sarbananda Sonowal
New Delhi, April 8: The indigenous development of hybrid and electric propulsion tugs is not only a technological advancement but also a symbol of India's growing capability to lead the global green maritime movement, Union Minister of Ports, Shipping and Waterways, Sarbananda Sonowal, has said.

Key Points

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First Indian green tug development showcasing technological innovation

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Supports PM Modi's Atmanirbhar Bharat vision

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Advanced CNC plasma cutting machine enhances shipbuilding capabilities

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Collaboration with global maritime experts for sustainable shipping

After unveiling advanced machinery at Cochin Shipyard to enhance shipbuilding capacity of the country, the minister remarked that this is a movement towards realising the vision of Prime Minister Narendra Modi's 'Atmanirbhar Bharat'.

The Union Minister inaugurated the 'ProArc CNC Plasma Cum Oxy Fuel Plate Cutting Machine' -- an advanced facility that will significantly enhance Cochin Shipyard Limited's ship-building capabilities.

The system allows real-time monitoring, predictive maintenance, and increased production efficiency, directly aligning with the objectives of the Shipbuilding Financial Assistance Policy (SBFAP) 2.0.

"The launch of Industry 4.0-ready facilities and the Green Tug Transition Programme marks a transformative leap in India's shipbuilding and green maritime journey," said Sonowal.

The Union Minister also presided over the steel cutting ceremony for two Green Tugs being developed under the Green Tug Transition Programme (GTTP), a flagship sustainability initiative by the Ministry.

Cochin Shipyard is the first Indian company to undertake the construction of these hybrid and electric propulsion tugs, with a total of 16 vessels planned across major ports in the country.

The project is being executed in collaboration with Robert Allan Ltd., the Indian Register of Shipping, and other global experts, marking a major step in India's green maritime transition.

"From building the iconic INS Vikrant to delivering over 175 vessels and completing more than 2,500 ship repair projects, Cochin Shipyard reflects the transformative vision of PM Modi's towards self-reliance," the minister noted.

"Under his leadership, India's maritime sector is scaling new heights -- through world-class infrastructure, national expansion, and institutions like METI that are shaping the skilled maritime workforce of tomorrow," Sonowal noted.

The Union Minister also reviewed the progress of the construction of India's largest Trailer Suction Hopper Dredger, being built by Cochin Shipyard for the Dredging Corporation of India in partnership with IHC Holland.

The dredger is a strategic national asset that will reduce dependency on foreign services while enhancing coastal access and maritime infrastructure.

Reader Comments

R
Rajesh K.
This is fantastic news! India leading in green maritime tech is something we should all be proud of. The hybrid tugs are just the beginning - can't wait to see what else Cochin Shipyard comes up with. 🇮🇳
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Priya M.
While I appreciate the green initiative, I hope the government ensures proper training for workers to handle these advanced technologies. Sometimes we rush into new tech without preparing the workforce adequately.
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Amit S.
From Vikrant to green tugs - Cochin Shipyard is really making waves! The dredger project sounds particularly important for our coastal infrastructure. More power to our shipbuilders! âš“
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Sunita R.
Great to see India focusing on sustainable maritime solutions. The collaboration with international partners shows we're serious about quality while maintaining our 'Make in India' spirit. The real test will be how these perform in actual port operations.
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Vikram J.
The Industry 4.0-ready facilities are what excites me most. Real-time monitoring and predictive maintenance will take our shipbuilding to global standards. Hope this tech trickles down to smaller shipyards too!
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Neha P.
As someone from Kochi, it's heartwarming to see our shipyard at the forefront of India's green maritime push. The 16 planned vessels could create so many local jobs too! 🌱

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Tags:
Green Maritime Technology Cochin Shipyard Sarbananda Sonowal Hybrid Electric Tugs Atmanirbhar Bharat Shipbuilding Innovation
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