MoUs with States, PSUs and Industry Unlock ₹66,000 Crore for Maritime & Shipbuilding Growth
SDG 9: Industry, Innovation & Infrastructure | SDG 14: Life Below Water
Institutions: Ministry of Ports, Shipping & Waterways
On 18 September 2025, the Government of India oversaw the signing of 27 MoUs with state governments, public sector undertakings, and private players, mobilising over ₹66,000 crore to accelerate India’s maritime and shipbuilding growth. The deals include development of the Bahuda Port in Odisha (150 MTPA, ₹21,500 cr), a Water Metro project in Patna (₹908 cr) via IWAI (Inland Waterways Authority of India)-Bihar partnership, creation of shipbuilding clusters through centre–state SPVs, and a Vessel Owning MoU between the Shipping Corporation of India and the Oil PSUs—IOCL, BPCL, and HPCL to stimulate demand for Indian-built ships. These projects are projected to generate around 1.5 lakh jobs nationwide.
The initiative strengthens Atmanirbhar Bharat, Sagarmala, and the National Maritime Agenda by expanding domestic shipbuilding, supporting allied industries like steel and logistics, and positioning India among the world’s top-5 shipbuilders by 2047.
What is a Water Metro? → A river-based electric ferry network integrated with urban transit, improving mobility and connectivity in riverine cities.
What is the National Maritime Agenda? → A Government of India blueprint (2010–2020, updated through subsequent policies) to expand port capacity, improve logistics, modernise shipbuilding, and raise India’s share in global maritime trade. It matters because it anchors long-term investments in ports, inland waterways, and coastal shipping.
What is Sagarmala? → Launched in 2015, Sagarmala is a flagship programme of the Ministry of Ports, Shipping & Waterways to modernise ports, develop coastal infrastructure, and promote port-led industrialisation. It matters as it lowers logistics costs, strengthens coastal economies, and integrates India’s trade corridors with global supply chains.
Relevant Question for Policy Stakeholders:
Which state or regional model for shipbuilding clusters can be scaled most effectively, considering infrastructure, labour, and financing?
Follow the full news here: https://www.pib.gov.in/PressReleasePage.aspx?PRID=2172488