Maharashtra has taken a pioneering leap by unveiling the country’s first dedicated policy for shipbuilding, repair, and recycling.
With a projected investment of ₹6,600 crore by 2030, the move signals a strategic bid to transform the state into a national hub for sustainable marine manufacturing and circular economy practices. The newly introduced Shipbuilding, Ship Repair and Ship Recycling Policy 2025 aims to foster an integrated, technology-driven, and green maritime ecosystem. Approved by the state cabinet earlier this week, the policy outlines clear objectives: attracting capital investment, creating 40,000 direct jobs by 2030, and elevating Maharashtra’s contribution to one-third of the national shipbuilding output. India currently ranks a modest 21st in global shipbuilding and 20th in ship repair, accounting for barely 1 per cent of global ship production. In contrast, China dominates the space with 50 per cent share, followed by South Korea and Japan. Yet, India holds a strong second place in ship recycling, commanding 32.6 per cent of global capacity—a sector Maharashtra now intends to scale up with modern infrastructure and skilled labour.
The policy calls for planning-led development of shipbuilding clusters, establishment of dedicated recycling zones, and the creation of state-of-the-art shipyards. With support from the Maharashtra Maritime Board, land allocation will be streamlined through long-term leases of up to 30 years, encouraging both domestic and foreign players to invest. Capital subsidies covering 15 per cent of project costs, skill development grants up to ₹1 crore per project, and R&D support up to ₹25 crore are also being offered to catalyse growth. Infrastructure support will be central to the policy’s success. The state plans to invest in last-mile connectivity, port access, and utilities such as water and electricity to ensure industrial viability. The policy also emphasises environmental sustainability, encouraging the use of cleaner technologies and promoting the reuse of dismantled materials like steel, in alignment with India’s green growth agenda and zero-carbon commitments. Speaking on the policy’s vision, Minister for Ports and Fisheries Nitesh Rane stressed that Maharashtra’s coastal infrastructure would be leveraged to manufacture and repair Indian vessels domestically, helping save foreign exchange while boosting indigenous capabilities. He also highlighted the socio-economic impact, particularly the generation of skilled employment through maritime training programmes in collaboration with local educational institutions.
Beyond economic parameters, this initiative sets a precedent for how Indian states can champion climate-conscious, gender-neutral, and inclusive industrial policies. With its strategic coastal geography, skilled workforce, and progressive regulatory environment, Maharashtra is positioning itself at the forefront of India’s blue economy push. While implementation will determine the true impact, the policy marks a significant shift in India’s maritime priorities—from being reactive to becoming a proactive architect of its industrial and ecological destiny.
