New Delhi, May 5:The Cabinet Committee on Economic Affairs, led by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, has approved the establishment of a state-of-the-art Ship Repair Facility at Vadinar, Gujarat, marking a significant expansion of India’s ship repair ecosystem.
Information and Broadcasting Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw, briefing the media on cabinet decisions, stated that the project will be executed jointly by the Deendayal Port Authority (DPA) and Cochin Shipyard Limited (CSL), with a combined investment of ₹1,570 crore.
"Among today’s key Cabinet decisions, covering farmers, technology, ‘Make in India,’ and the judiciary, notable initiatives include measures to boost cotton productivity and benefits for sugarcane farmers totaling around ₹1,00,000 crore," Vaishnaw said.
The Vadinar Ship Repair Facility will be developed as a brownfield project featuring a 650-meter jetty, two large floating dry docks, workshops, and associated marine infrastructure. Its natural deep draft, proximity to major shipping routes, and nearby ports like Mundra and Kandla make it ideal for servicing large commercial and foreign-flagged vessels.
The project is expected to address a critical gap in India’s ship repair capabilities, as the country currently lacks infrastructure to service vessels exceeding 230 meters in length. The facility will be able to repair ships up to 300 meters, enabling high-value repairs domestically, reducing dependence on foreign shipyards, and curbing foreign exchange outflow. Enhanced repair capabilities on the western coast will also improve the competitiveness of Indian ports.
Beyond infrastructure, the initiative will promote skill development and generate employment, creating approximately 290 direct and 1,100 indirect jobs in ship repair, logistics, and ancillary industries. It is also expected to stimulate growth for maritime services and MSMEs in the region, contributing to a broader maritime industrial ecosystem.
The Vadinar Ship Repair Facility aligns with India’s long-term maritime goals under the Maritime India Vision 2030 and Maritime Amrit Kaal Vision 2047, driving regional economic growth while strengthening the nation’s strategic maritime capabilities.
