The Indian Register of Shipping (IRS) has formalised an agreement with the National Centre for Polar and Ocean Research (NCPOR) under the Ministry of Earth Sciences. The partnership focuses on the construction of a cutting-edge ocean research vessel (ORV) at Garden Reach Shipbuilders & Engineers Ltd (GRSE).
This initiative aims to elevate India’s research and data collection in oceanography, reinforcing the nation’s commitment to advancing scientific exploration. The agreement was signed by Devrup Kabi, Head of Ship Building Project Management at IRS, and M M Subramaniam, Scientist in Charge of Vessel Operation and Management at NCPOR. Kabi expressed enthusiasm about contributing IRS’s extensive expertise in vessel operations to the project, highlighting the importance of their technical skills in ensuring the successful completion of the ORV.
This collaboration is a testament to the combined strengths of IRS and NCPOR in enhancing marine scientific research and exploration. The new vessel is set to play a crucial role in advancing India’s capabilities in oceanographic research, aligning with the broader Atmanirbhar Bharat initiative. IRS, an international ship classification society, will leverage its extensive experience and technical prowess to oversee the construction process, while NCPOR will provide the necessary scientific guidance. The project underscores a significant step forward in India’s maritime research infrastructure, promising to deliver a world-class facility for oceanographic studies.
