Gujarat, home to India's longest coastline stretching 2,340 kilometres, has unveiled a comprehensive Shipbuilding and Repair Policy aimed at transforming the state into the country's leading shipbuilding and ship repair hub. Powered by advanced technology, world-class infrastructure, and sustainable development, the policy seeks to strengthen Gujarat's position in the global maritime sector.

Launched by Chief Minister Bhupendra Patel, the policy aligns with Prime Minister Narendra Modi's vision of Atmanirbhar Bharat, the Government of India's Shipbuilding Financial Assistance Scheme (SBFAS)-2025, and the Maritime Vision 2047 roadmap.

Under the new policy, the state will promote the development of modern shipyards, green and smart shipbuilding facilities, skill development, research and development (R&D), and startups in the maritime sector.

A key highlight of the policy is the development of an Integrated Mega Shipbuilding Park (IMSP), which will feature marine equipment clusters, logistics infrastructure, testing facilities, and dedicated R&D centres to create a world-class maritime industrial ecosystem.

In addition, the Union government has approved a Mega Greenfield Shipbuilding Cluster at Kuchhdi near Porbandar, where two to three world-class shipyards will be established. The project is expected to attract nearly Rs.23,700 crore in private investment, significantly boosting Gujarat's maritime manufacturing capabilities. ALSO READ: Gujarat Police Hailed for Heroic Flood Rescue in Valsad, Deputy CM Harsh Sanghavi Shares Video

To support the growing maritime ecosystem, approximately Rs.3,300 crore will be invested in developing both marine and onshore infrastructure. The funding will be backed by the Government of India's Shipbuilding Development Scheme (SbDS) along with financial assistance from the Gujarat government.

The infrastructure will include shared facilities such as breakwaters, dredging, floating cranes, navigation channels, roads, power supply, and water infrastructure. These common facilities are expected to reduce project costs for investors while accelerating industrial development.

To attract domestic and global investments, the policy offers a range of financial incentives, including capital assistance, interest subsidies, stamp duty reimbursement, dredging support, subsidised electricity and water charges, and incentives for procurement from Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs).

Special benefits have also been announced for early-bird investors who commence operations during the initial phase of the policy.

Additionally, Gujarat will introduce a single-window clearance system and a dedicated grievance redressal mechanism to streamline approvals and improve the ease of doing business.

Through the new policy, Gujarat aims to expand its shipbuilding capacity to over 5 million Deadweight Tonnage (DWT), establish two mega shipbuilding parks, and train more than 500,000 people with industry-relevant skills to enhance employment opportunities.

The Gujarat Maritime Board (GMB) has also prepared detailed implementation guidelines to ensure the effective execution of the policy, marking a significant milestone in the state's vision of 'Viksit Gujarat 2047' and reinforcing its ambition to emerge as India's premier maritime manufacturing hub.