India is charting a transformative course towards sustainable maritime growth with the development of hybrid and electric propulsion tugs, a move that underscores the nation’s commitment to leading the global green maritime movement.
This initiative, spearheaded by the Union Ministry of Ports, Shipping and Waterways, reflects India’s growing prowess in sustainable shipbuilding and aligns with the vision of self-reliant economic growth. At the forefront of this green revolution is Cochin Shipyard, which recently unveiled advanced machinery to bolster the country’s shipbuilding capabilities. The introduction of the ‘ProArc CNC Plasma Cum Oxy Fuel Plate Cutting Machine’ marks a significant upgrade, enhancing production efficiency and integrating real-time monitoring with predictive maintenance. This facility is poised to play a critical role in the Shipbuilding Financial Assistance Policy (SBFAP) 2.0, which aims to foster a competitive shipbuilding ecosystem in India.
A key highlight of this development is the initiation of the Green Tug Transition Programme (GTTP), a flagship sustainability initiative designed to modernise India’s maritime fleet. Under this programme, Cochin Shipyard is constructing two state-of-the-art green tugs, with plans for a total of 16 vessels to be deployed across major Indian ports. These vessels, powered by hybrid and electric propulsion systems, represent a paradigm shift towards eco-friendly maritime operations. The project is a collaborative effort, with technical inputs from global maritime experts and partnerships with prominent organisations such as Robert Allan Ltd. and the Indian Register of Shipping. This synergy of local expertise and international knowledge is crucial for achieving the high operational standards required for sustainable maritime vessels.
The launch of these hybrid tugs not only highlights India’s technological advancements but also serves as a testament to the nation’s commitment to reducing its carbon footprint. By integrating green technologies, these vessels will significantly cut down on greenhouse gas emissions, aligning with India’s broader environmental goals and global climate commitments. Beyond the green tugs, the Union Minister also reviewed progress on India’s largest Trailer Suction Hopper Dredger, under construction at Cochin Shipyard for the Dredging Corporation of India in collaboration with IHC Holland. This dredger is a strategic asset, designed to enhance coastal access, support sustainable port development, and reduce dependency on foreign maritime services.
Cochin Shipyard’s journey—from building iconic vessels like the INS Vikrant to completing over 175 ship deliveries and 2,500 ship repair projects—reflects the transformative vision driving India’s maritime sector. These milestones underscore the sector’s evolving role as a cornerstone of national development, contributing to economic growth, technological innovation, and environmental sustainability.
As India continues to strengthen its maritime infrastructure, the focus remains on creating eco-friendly, gender-neutral, and equitable maritime environments. The introduction of green tugs and advanced shipbuilding technologies signifies a crucial step towards a sustainable, self-reliant maritime future, reinforcing India’s position as a global leader in green maritime innovation.
India Builds Green Maritime Future with New Tugs
