New Gujarat Policy Focuses On Expanding India’s Shipbuilding Capabilities

The Gujarat government on Monday launched its Shipbuilding and Repair Policy 2026 in Gandhinagar, outlining a roadmap to expand the state’s shipbuilding capacity, attract private investment, and establish an integrated maritime manufacturing ecosystem. The announcement comes alongside the Centre’s approval of a mega greenfield shipbuilding cluster in Porbandar district, which is expected to attract investments of more than Rs 27,000 crore.

Chief Minister Bhupendra Patel formally introduced the policy, stating that Gujarat aims to strengthen its position as India’s leading shipbuilding and repair hub by leveraging its 2,340-kilometre coastline, major port infrastructure, and strong industrial base. The policy is aligned with the Centre’s Shipbuilding Financial Assistance Scheme 2025, Maritime Vision 2047, and the broader goal of promoting self-reliance under the Aatmanirbhar Bharat initiative.

The new policy focuses on developing shipyards, supporting marine equipment manufacturing, strengthening research and development activities, expanding skill development programmes, and promoting green and smart shipyard technologies. A key proposal under the policy is the creation of Integrated Mega Shipbuilding Parks (IMSPs), which will bring together shipyards, equipment manufacturers, testing facilities, logistics networks, research centres, and training institutions.

Also Read: Takeda’s QDENGA Becomes India’s First Approved Dengue Vaccine After DCGI Nod

The policy announcement follows the approval of a Mega Greenfield Shipbuilding Cluster at Kuchhadi in Porbandar district. According to the state government, the project will feature two to three world-class shipyards supported by a network of ancillary industries. Private investment in shipyard development is expected to be around Rs 23,700 crore, while nearly Rs 3,300 crore will be invested in shared marine and land infrastructure through support from the Centre’s Shipbuilding Development Scheme and the Gujarat government.

The planned infrastructure will include breakwaters, floating cranes, dredging facilities, harbour development, navigation channels, roads, electricity and water supply networks, and other common facilities aimed at reducing costs for investors. The policy also introduces several fiscal and non-fiscal incentives, including capital assistance, stamp duty reimbursement, interest subsidies, dredging support, MSME procurement incentives, and benefits for marine equipment manufacturing clusters.

The Gujarat government has also proposed a Single Window Clearance System and a dedicated grievance redressal mechanism to ensure faster approvals and smoother project implementation. Officials said the policy aims to increase Gujarat’s shipbuilding capacity to over 50 lakh Dead Weight Tonnage (DWT), establish two Integrated Mega Shipbuilding Parks, and provide skill development training to more than five lakh people. Chief Minister Bhupendra Patel said the initiative would support Gujarat’s long-term development goals while contributing to India’s vision of building a globally competitive maritime sector.

Also Read: Skyroot CEO Explains How India’s Private Space Startup Plans To Compete Globally