Union Shipping Minister Sarbananda Sonowal has opened a dedicated ship technology centre in Visakhapatnam, marking a bold step toward reducing India’s reliance on foreign ship designs and boosting domestic maritime capabilities. The Indian Ship Technology Centre (ISTC), inaugurated virtually during the 10th convocation of the Indian Maritime University (IMU) in Chennai, is set to become a cornerstone in India’s ambitious push to rank among the world’s top 10 maritime nations by 2030.
Located on IMU’s Visakhapatnam campus, the ISTC is more than just a research facility—it’s a one-stop shop for indigenous ship design, advanced training, and policy expertise. Equipped with cutting-edge software and design tools, the centre will collaborate closely with industry to fast-track the adoption of new production processes. This isn’t just about building ships; it’s about building an ecosystem where innovation and skill development go hand in hand.
“The country is embarking on a new era of maritime excellence,” Sonowal declared, underscoring the government’s Maritime Amrit Kaal Vision 2047. His words carry weight, especially as India seeks to carve out a larger share of the global shipbuilding market. The ISTC’s role in nurturing local talent and fostering collaboration between academia and industry could be a game-changer.
The minister’s confidence in Andhra Pradesh’s potential is notable. “The state has some of the country’s best shipping talent, and we aim to make it the world’s best shipyard,” he said. That’s a lofty goal, but with the ISTC’s focus on research, training, and industry partnerships, it’s not out of reach. The centre’s ability to act as a single-window service provider for consultancy, training, and policy inputs could streamline India’s shipbuilding efforts, reducing bureaucratic hurdles and speeding up innovation.
This move isn’t just about self-reliance—it’s about setting a global benchmark. By investing in indigenous design and cutting-edge technology, India is positioning itself as a competitive player in the international maritime arena. The ISTC could become a magnet for talent and investment, drawing in experts and businesses eager to contribute to and benefit from India’s maritime growth story.
The real test will be in execution. Can the ISTC deliver on its promise of accelerating adoption of new production processes? Will it bridge the gap between academic research and industrial application? And perhaps most importantly, will it help India leapfrog into the top tier of global shipbuilding?
The answers to these questions will shape the future of India’s maritime sector. One thing is clear: the ISTC is more than a facility—it’s a statement of intent. India is no longer content to be a bit player in the maritime world. With the ISTC, it’s staking its claim as a leader in innovation, sustainability, and global competitiveness. The journey to 2030—and beyond—has just begun.