Defence Minister Rajnath Singh Advocates for Integrated Maritime Ecosystem
Rajnath Singh emphasizes the need for a robust maritime ecosystem to bolster India's defence capabilities during a shipyard event.
Defence Minister launched Fleet Support Ship-1 and laid keel for Fleet Support Ship-5.
The upgraded infrastructure at Hindustan Shipyard will enhance shipbuilding capacity.
India aims for a self-reliant defence sector by 2047, focusing on indigenous capabilities.
Defence Minister Rajnath Singh has articulated the necessity for a cohesive and robust maritime ecosystem to amplify India's maritime strength and bolster national defence capabilities. This statement was made during the launch event of Fleet Support Ship-1, named 'Surya', at Hindustan Shipyard Limited in Visakhapatnam, where he also laid the keel for Fleet Support Ship-5 and inaugurated upgraded facilities including Slipway-4 and a 300-tonne Goliath Crane.
In his address, Singh highlighted that the launch of the Fleet Support Ship-1 and the laying of the keel for Fleet Support Ship-5 signify crucial advancements in enhancing India's maritime capabilities. He noted that the new ship, 'Surya', will significantly augment the operational effectiveness and reach of the Indian Navy. The enhancements at Hindustan Shipyard are expected to bolster the shipyard's capacity to undertake large-scale shipbuilding projects, thereby contributing to national security.
The Defence Minister acknowledged the Indian Navy's pivotal role in the Indian Ocean Region, where it has consistently acted as a first responder and a preferred security partner. He pointed out the Navy's contributions to humanitarian assistance, disaster relief, anti-piracy operations, and maritime security, underscoring its importance in regional stability.
Singh also emphasized the historical significance of Hindustan Shipyard Limited, which has been instrumental in fulfilling India’s maritime and defence needs for over 80 years. He mentioned the shipyard's Miniratna Category-I status, granted in 2025, as a testament to its evolution and improved financial health. The Minister called for collaboration among the Navy, shipyards, DRDO, academia, industry, MSMEs, and start-ups to forge a strong national maritime ecosystem.
Looking towards the future, Singh expressed that while India possesses vast potential in shipbuilding, the challenge lies in transforming this potential into tangible capabilities and global competitiveness. He stressed the importance of timely project delivery, productivity, indigenous design, resilient supply chains, skilled workforce, and cost efficiency. As India aspires to become a developed nation by 2047, the focus will be on achieving a self-reliant and secure economy with a prominent global standing.
