India is set to construct its first Polar Research Vessel (PRV), marking a significant move to boost indigenous shipbuilding and strengthen maritime research capacity, following a new collaboration with Norway’s Kongsberg.
In Oslo, Sarbananda Sonowal, India’s Minister for Ports, Shipping & Waterways, oversaw the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding between Garden Reach Shipbuilders & Engineers Ltd. (GRSE) and Norwegian maritime technology firm Kongsberg. The agreement lays the groundwork for India’s inaugural polar-class research ship, which will support critical climate and marine studies in the polar and Southern Ocean regions.
The vessel will be built at GRSE’s shipyard in Kolkata, a facility with a proven record in advanced naval and survey ships. With design input from Kongsberg, the vessel will align with the technical and scientific needs of the National Centre for Polar and Ocean Research (NCPOR).
At the ceremony, Sonowal described the PRV not just as a ship but a “legacy of innovation, exploration, and international cooperation.” He emphasized the platform’s role in supporting India’s climate research ambitions while showcasing the capabilities of Indian shipyards under the “Make in India” initiative.
The Minister’s visit to Norway extended beyond the MoU. Speaking at the Nor-Shipping conference, Sonowal addressed the global ministerial session on the future of shipping. He presented India’s strategic MAHASAGAR initiative—Mutual and Holistic Advancement for Security Across the Regions—as an extension of the SAGAR vision. MAHASAGAR aims to build inclusive and sustainable maritime systems through cooperation, innovation, and resilience.
He highlighted India’s efforts in climate-resilient maritime development and called attention to the nation’s commitment to decarbonization and alternative fuels, including green hydrogen. He also spoke on India’s infrastructure goals through Sagarmala 2.0, which includes development of green ports, smart logistics, and a push for ship recycling capacity that meets global standards.
Later, at a strategic roundtable with the Norwegian Shipowners’ Association (NSA), Sonowal invited increased investment from Norwegian maritime companies. With Indian shipyards already holding 11% of NSA’s global order book, he proposed new opportunities in green shipping corridors, expanded shipbuilding contracts, and the recruitment of Indian seafarers—currently the second-largest nationality in NSA’s global fleet.
India’s ship recycling sector, with 87% HKC-compliant yards, and digital maritime platforms like ONOP and MAITRI, were presented as further incentives for collaboration. The government’s $2.9 billion Maritime Development Fund also offers financial opportunities for global stakeholders.
