India to Build First-Ever Polar Research Vessel (PRV) in Collaboration with Norway

In a landmark move towards scientific self-reliance and maritime advancement, India is set to build its first-ever indigenously manufactured Polar Research Vessel (PRV) through a strategic partnership between Garden Reach Shipbuilders and Engineers Ltd. (GRSE) and Norway’s Kongsberg. This collaboration marks a pivotal step in strengthening India’s polar research capabilities, boosting its ‘Make in India’ initiative, and expanding international maritime cooperation.

Why in News?

On June 3, 2025, Union Minister Sarbananda Sonowal attended the MoU signing ceremony between India’s Garden Reach Shipbuilders and Engineers Ltd (GRSE) and Norway’s Kongsberg, marking a major milestone for India’s scientific and shipbuilding capabilities. This collaboration will result in India’s first-ever Polar Research Vessel (PRV), supporting polar and ocean research under the guidance of the National Centre for Polar and Ocean Research (NCPOR).

Background and Context

• India has long been active in Antarctic and Arctic research, but has relied on foreign vessels for polar exploration.
• The National Centre for Polar and Ocean Research (NCPOR) manages India’s polar missions.
• GRSE, headquartered in Kolkata, has vast experience in complex shipbuilding, including warships and survey vessels.

About the MoU and the Polar Research Vessel

• Signed Between: GRSE (India) and Kongsberg (Norway).
• Objective: To design and build India’s first Polar Research Vessel indigenously.

Purpose of the Vessel,

• Deep-sea ocean exploration
• Marine ecosystem research
• Polar ice and climate studies
• Support India’s missions in Antarctica and the Southern Ocean

Key Highlights of the Event

• Union Minister Sonowal described the MoU as a legacy of international cooperation and innovation.
• The PRV will enhance India’s scientific infrastructure and support the Make in India mission.
• The PRV will be tailored to NCPOR’s requirements, incorporating cutting-edge scientific equipment.

MAHASAGAR Vision and International Engagement

• Shri Sonowal participated in a ministerial meeting on “Shipping & Ocean Business” at Nor-Shipping 2025 in Norway.
• India’s MAHASAGAR Vision stands for: Mutual and Holistic Advancement for Security Across the Regions.
• Builds upon SAGAR initiative (Security and Growth for All in the Region).

India-Norway Maritime Cooperation

Shri Sonowal held a roundtable with Norwegian Shipowners’ Association (NSA),

• Encouraged investments in green shipbuilding, digital platforms, ports, logistics.
• Highlighted India’s position as second-largest seafarer contributor to NSA’s global fleet.
• Emphasized India’s 11% share in NSA’s order book.
• Promoted India’s ship recycling industry, noting 87% HKC-compliant yards.

Significance of the Polar Research Vessel

• Enhances India’s Arctic and Antarctic footprint.
• Boosts India’s climate change research and marine biodiversity monitoring.
• Positions India as a scientific and shipbuilding power.
• Reinforces India’s commitment to sustainability and global partnerships.