India, with its coastline of over 7,870 kilometers and a rich maritime tradition, is steadily developing its capabilities in the shipbuilding industry and marine infrastructure. In recent years, focused policy measures, strategic investments and international collaborations have contributed significantly to the growth of shipbuilding companies in India, thereby enhancing the country’s presence in the global maritime arena.
As part of this continued effort, Prime Minister Narendra Modi, under the “Samudra se Samriddhi” initiative, recently inaugurated and laid the foundation for development projects worth ?34,200 crore. These projects include the expansion of port infrastructure, ship repair facilities, container terminals and the integration of renewable energy solutions. The objective is to increase operational capacity, improve efficiency and promote sustainability across India’s shipping and shipbuilding ecosystem.
Further reinforcing this momentum, on 24 September 2025, the Union Cabinet approved a major ?69,725 crore incentive package to boost India’s maritime and shipbuilding capabilities. This comprehensive package includes:
This large-scale stimulus is aimed at accelerating the growth of India’s shipbuilding sector, fostering global competitiveness, reducing reliance on foreign vessels and establishing India as a major maritime manufacturing hub.
The shipbuilding industry plays a critical role in economic development by enabling global trade, enhancing defense capabilities and boosting employment. India is strategically located along key global shipping routes, giving it an advantage to become a manufacturing and repair hub for ships.
Globally, shipbuilding is dominated by countries like South Korea, China and Japan. However, India, with its low-cost yet highly skilled workforce, expanding port infrastructure and growing fleet of Indian ship manufacturing companies, is quickly gaining attention as a competitive player.
The Indian government, through initiatives like Sagarmala and Maritime India Vision 2030, is actively promoting the growth of ship manufacturing companies in India and positioning the country as a leader in sustainable maritime solutions.
The foundation stone and inauguration of multiple projects across India’s maritime zone aim to transform the country’s shipping and shipbuilding industry. Some key highlights include:
These projects not only enhance port capacity but also boost opportunities for shipping companies in Mumbai and other hubs to expand globally.
India is home to several leading ship manufacturing companies that design, manufacture and repair a variety of vessels — from cargo ships to defense warships. Some of the top shipbuilding companies in India include:
These ship manufacturing companies in India are supported by a growing ecosystem of private sector players, including ABG Shipyard and Bharati Shipyard, which provide additional capacity and innovation.
India’s maritime zone plays a crucial role in its growth as a shipbuilding and shipping hub. The Exclusive Economic Zone (EEZ) of over 2 million sq. km provides opportunities for offshore energy, fishing and marine resources. With ports located on both eastern and western coasts, India serves as a natural bridge between East and West trade routes.
The development of modern container terminals, freight villages and inland waterways ensures seamless integration with global supply chains, benefiting both shipping companies and exporters.
The demand for efficient logistics and global connectivity has fueled the rise of shipping companies across India. Particularly, shipping companies in Mumbai have been at the forefront of trade and logistics, handling a large share of India’s maritime cargo.
Mumbai, home to the Jawaharlal Nehru Port Trust (JNPT), is a hub for international shipping activities. Leading shipping companies in Mumbai include The Shipping Corporation of India (SCI), Great Eastern Shipping and Mercator Ltd., which provide services ranging from cargo transport to offshore logistics.
As global trade patterns evolve, Indian shipping firms are adopting digital transformation, green energy and automation to stay competitive.
The government’s focus on maritime projects and shipbuilding is expected to deliver wide-ranging benefits, including:
India is steadily building the foundation to become a global leader in the shipbuilding industry. With strong support from government initiatives, rising collaborations with global players and the growth of shipbuilding companies in India, the sector is set for long-term expansion.
The focus on shipping companies in Mumbai and other port cities ensures that India remains integrated with global trade flows, while the push for green hydrogen, renewable energy and digitalization positions Indian shipyards at the forefront of sustainable innovation.
With strategic investments, technological upgrades and a skilled workforce, the future of Indian ship manufacturing companies is not just limited to meeting domestic demand but also competing globally, offering both defense and commercial solutions to the world.
The marine and shipbuilding industry in India is moving through a phase of steady development, supported by infrastructure upgrades, government policies and the work of both public and private Indian ship manufacturing companies. The rise of shipping companies in Mumbai and other port hubs further integrates India into global trade flows.
With new projects underway and collaborations across states and companies, India’s shipbuilding industry is positioned for gradual but significant growth. The focus on sustainability, connectivity and skill development will be central to strengthening the country’s role in the global maritime economy in the coming years.