India has embarked on an ambitious project to construct its first-ever indigenous Polar Research Vessel (PRV) following a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) between Garden Reach Shipbuilders and Engineers (GRSE) and Norway’s Kongsberg. This vessel will play a crucial role in advancing the nation’s scientific research capabilities, particularly in polar and oceanic exploration.
On this historic occasion, Union Minister Sarbananda Sonowal stated, “This MoU represents not only a step toward scientific advancement but also marks a commitment to sustainable development and international collaboration. Together, we are building a future where innovation, exploration, and cooperation thrive, paving the way for a legacy that will inspire generations to come.”
He emphasized that the initiative supports the “Make in India” campaign launched in 2014, aimed at strengthening India’s manufacturing and defense sectors. Under Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s leadership, this partnership aligns with India’s goal of enhancing polar and ocean research capabilities and addressing global challenges such as climate change.
“The PRV will be equipped with cutting-edge technology to explore the depths of our oceans, study marine ecosystems, and provide valuable insights into the environmental changes shaping our world,” Sonowal added.
The vessel’s construction will take place at GRSE’s Kolkata facility, providing a significant boost to India’s domestic shipbuilding industry. Kongsberg’s expertise will help shape the design to meet the operational needs of the National Centre for Polar and Ocean Research (NCPOR), which will operate the vessel for research in the Arctic and Antarctic regions.
The Polar Research Vessel will support India’s ongoing scientific efforts in the Arctic and Antarctic regions, making significant contributions to climate science, oceanography, and polar logistics. GRSE noted that this collaboration aligns with the Ministry of Earth Sciences’ vision to bolster India’s capabilities in polar research. “The PRV will be a critical asset for advancing our scientific missions in the Arctic and Antarctic regions, particularly for climate research, oceanographic studies, and polar logistics,” GRSE shared on social media.
On his official visit to Norway, Union Minister Shri Sonowal also participated in a high-level Ministerial Meeting discussing the role of shipping in shaping a sustainable future. The meeting, which included representatives from Brazil, Japan, the UN, the US, China, and Norway, highlighted the importance of creating a stable, long-term regulatory framework that promotes a decarbonized and inclusive maritime industry.
“India’s maritime sector is undergoing a transformation driven by sustainability and innovation. We are committed to fostering global partnerships and building a resilient, green maritime ecosystem. Through investments in green ports, alternative fuels like green hydrogen, and strategic incentives, India is poised to become a leader in sustainable shipbuilding,” Shri Sonowal remarked.
The Minister further stressed the growing maritime cooperation between India and Norway, citing that Indian shipyards currently hold 11% of the Norwegian Shipowners’ Association’s order book. He called for expanding these partnerships and highlighted the investment opportunities available through India’s Sagarmala program and the $2.9 billion Maritime Development Fund.
Shri Sonowal also emphasized India’s commitment to digital innovation in the maritime sector through platforms like ONOP and MAITRI, and invited Norway’s cooperation in developing green shipping corridors and achieving net-zero goals aligned with the International Maritime Organization’s (IMO) standards. Shri Sonowal’s visit also includes participation in the Nor-Shipping event and meetings with key leaders from Denmark, aimed at further enhancing India’s relationship with the global maritime industry.
