Sarbananda Sonowal calls on SCI to lead India’s Maritime and Shipbuilding Growth
MUMBAI: Union Minister for Ports, Shipping, and Waterways, Shri Sarbananda Sonowal, has emphasized the pivotal role of the Shipping Corporation of India (SCI) in driving India’s aspirations to establish a self-reliant and globally competitive maritime and shipbuilding sector.
Celebrating 65 Years of SCI’s Operations
At a ceremony commemorating 65 years of SCI’s operations at the International Cruise Terminal in Mumbai, the Union Minister highlighted SCI’s strategic significance in enhancing India’s maritime capabilities and supporting the nation’s long-term shipbuilding ambitions.
SCI’s Contribution to India’s Maritime Vision
Shri Sonowal commended SCI for its service to the nation over six and a half decades, particularly during the recent Strait of Hormuz crisis. He urged SCI to continue leading the charge in bolstering domestic maritime capacity and aiding India in becoming a more robust and competitive player in the global maritime industry.
SCI’s Evolution and Future Plans
Established in 1961 with 19 vessels, SCI has evolved into a diversified maritime enterprise operating 58 vessels totaling 5.26 million deadweight tonnage (DWT). The company’s operations encompass various sectors, including crude and product tankers, bulk and container shipping, LPG and LNG carriers, offshore services, passenger and coastal transport, project cargo, ship management, and shipbuilding consultancy.
Under the visionary leadership of Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi, India is actively progressing towards not only owning but also building ships domestically. SCI’s growth exemplifies the potential of Indian enterprise when supported by national determination. As SCI expands its fleet and strengthens partnerships, it not only enhances its own capabilities but also propels India closer to its shipbuilding goals, aligning with the nation’s vision of a developed India by 2047.
Commitment to Maritime Development
Shri Nitesh Narayan Rane, Maharashtra’s Minister for Fisheries and Ports, emphasized the importance of a robust shipping ecosystem for trade, employment, and the overall growth of India’s maritime economy. Additionally, SCI’s Chairman and Managing Director, Capt. B.K. Tyagi, outlined the company’s plans to build a larger, modern, and globally competitive fleet to support India’s shipping capacity expansion.
Looking Ahead
SCI’s fleet augmentation program, supported by the government’s enhanced policy and financial backing for the maritime sector, is paving the way for accelerated growth towards the Maritime Amrit Kaal Vision 2047 targets. As SCI embarks on its next phase of growth, the company is poised to play a central role in strengthening India’s maritime capacity and contributing to the nation’s economic, energy security, and shipbuilding aspirations towards a developed and self-reliant India.
