India to Build Its First Polar Research Vessel: Sonowal Inks Historic MoU with Norway’s Kongsberg

New Delhi: Marking a significant milestone in India’s scientific and maritime journey, Union Minister of Ports, Shipping and Waterways Sarbananda Sonowal presided over the signing of a landmark Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) between Kolkata-based Garden Reach Shipbuilders and Engineers Ltd (GRSE) and Norway’s Kongsberg at an event today in Oslo. The MoU paves the way for the indigenous construction of India’s first-ever Polar Research Vessel (PRV).

Describing the moment as a “beacon of hope and progress,” Sonowal said the collaboration reflects India’s unwavering commitment to scientific innovation, sustainable development, and global cooperation. “Under the leadership of Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi ji, this MoU is not just about building a ship — it is about shaping a legacy of innovation, exploration, and environmental stewardship,” he remarked.

The Polar Research Vessel will be designed to meet the requirements of the National Centre for Polar and Ocean Research (NCOPR) and will be constructed by GRSE at its Kolkata facility. The vessel will be equipped with cutting-edge scientific technology for oceanographic research, climate studies, and marine biodiversity assessment in polar and southern ocean territories. Kongsberg will provide design and technical expertise to support this complex project.

“This will be a shining example of India’s shipbuilding capabilities and a strong boost to the government’s ‘Make In India’ initiative,” Sonowal noted. Senior officials from India and Norway, as well as representatives from GRSE and Kongsberg, were present at the signing ceremony.

Following the MoU signing, Sonowal took part in a high-level Ministerial Meeting on ‘The Role of Shipping in Shaping the Future’ alongside leaders from Brazil, Japan, the United States, China, the United Nations, and Norway. The dialogue focused on establishing a stable, inclusive, and decarbonised maritime trade system.

Speaking at the session, Sonowal reaffirmed India’s commitment to the Prime Minister’s maritime vision — SAGAR (Security and Growth for All in the Region) — and its expanded form, MAHASAGAR (Mutual and Holistic Advancement for Security Across the Regions).

“India’s maritime heritage, strategic location, and growing infrastructure make it a pivotal player in global ocean trade. Through Sagarmala 2.0 and our MAHASAGAR vision, we are bridging critical infrastructure gaps and positioning India as a global maritime leader,” he said.

In a focused roundtable with the Norwegian Shipowners’ Association (NSA), Sonowal urged Norwegian investors to deepen their engagement with India’s maritime ecosystem. He highlighted India’s progress in shipbuilding, port development, and sustainability, inviting investment in green fuels, port infrastructure, and next-generation shipbuilding technologies.

“India’s maritime sector is undergoing a green transformation. From hydrogen-based fuels to smart ports, we are aligning our infrastructure with global ESG goals. Our partnership with Norway can be a model of innovation, resilience, and sustainability,” he said.

India currently holds 11% of NSA’s global shipbuilding order book, with Indian shipyards delivering advanced vessels to Norwegian companies. The Minister called for further expansion of this cooperation, including new shipbuilding orders, expanded seafarer recruitment, and joint initiatives on green shipping corridors and IMO-compliant net-zero targets.

He also spotlighted the Sagarmala Programme and the $2.9 billion Maritime Development Fund, which provide major incentives for investors across logistics, ports, and shipbuilding sectors.

Sonowal’s visit to Norway and Denmark marks India’s deepening engagement with the global maritime community. As part of the Nor-Shipping 2025 event, the Minister is participating in several strategic dialogues aimed at enhancing bilateral cooperation and showcasing India’s emergence as a cost-effective, sustainable, and future-ready maritime hub.