Indian Navy Signs Contract for Indigenous Bottom Opening Barges

India continues to strengthen its indigenous defence manufacturing ecosystem. The Indian Navy has signed a contract for the construction of three specialised barges with an Indian MSME shipyard, reinforcing the government’s Make in India and Aatmanirbhar Bharat initiatives while boosting domestic shipbuilding capacity.

Why in News?

The Indian Navy signed a contract for three Bottom Opening Non-Propelled Barges. The project supports MSME shipyards and indigenous naval infrastructure.

Details of the Contract

• The Indian Navy concluded a contract on January 16, 2026, with Suryadipta Projects Private Limited, Thane, for the construction and delivery of three 200-tonne Bottom Opening Non-Propelled Barges.
• These barges are designed for specialised logistical and operational roles within naval establishments.
• The contract highlights the Navy’s continued focus on sourcing platforms and auxiliary vessels from Indian manufacturers, especially Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs), thereby strengthening self-reliance in defence infrastructure.

Make in India and Aatmanirbhar Bharat Focus

• These barges are a strong example of the government’s Make in India and Aatmanirbhar Bharat initiatives.
• Entirely built in India, the vessels will be constructed under the classification rules of the Indian Register of Shipping.
• By awarding this contract to an MSME shipyard, the Indian Navy has demonstrated its intent to promote indigenous design, manufacturing, and compliance with Indian maritime standards.
• This approach reduces import dependence, enhances domestic capability, and ensures that strategic maritime assets are developed within the country.

Boost to MSME Shipyards

• The contract reflects the Navy’s commitment to nurturing MSME shipyards as part of the broader domestic shipbuilding ecosystem.
• Encouraging smaller shipyards helps create skilled employment, strengthens supply chains, and fosters innovation at the grassroots level.
• This initiative aligns closely with the objectives of Maritime India Vision 2030, which aims to modernize India’s maritime sector, expand indigenous shipbuilding capacity, and position India as a global maritime hub through sustainable and self-reliant growth.

Key Summary at a Glance

Question

Q. The Indian Navy signed a contract for Bottom Opening Barges with which company?

A. Mazagon Dock Shipbuilders
B. Cochin Shipyard Limited
C. Suryadipta Projects Private Limited
D. Garden Reach Shipbuilders