India Partners with Norway to Develop Its Inaugural Indigenous Polar Research Ship

India is embarking on an exciting journey to construct its very first indigenous Polar Research Vessel (PRV), collaborating with Norway’s Kongsberg Maritime. As reported by Newsonair, this partnership was solidified through a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) signed at the Nor-Shipping 2025 maritime trade fair in Oslo, Norway.

The MoU was inked in the presence of Union Minister Sarbananda Sonowal, who is currently visiting Norway and Denmark to enhance India’s relationships with key players in the maritime sector. The vessel will be built at Garden Reach Shipbuilders and Engineers Limited’s shipyard in Kolkata, merging Norwegian design prowess with Indian manufacturing skills. It aims to fulfill the needs outlined by the National Center for Polar and Ocean Research (NCPOR) and will facilitate India’s explorations in both polar regions.

According to a statement from the Ministry of Earth Sciences, this new vessel will boast cutting-edge scientific tools that enable researchers to delve into marine ecosystems, climate dynamics, and oceanic depths—providing vital data about our planet’s history and future.

This agreement marks a meaningful milestone as it represents the first collaboration between an Indian firm and a Norwegian company during Nor-Shipping 2025. GRSE officials emphasized that this PRV will be pivotal for advancing climate science, oceanography, and logistics within polar environments.This initiative aligns perfectly with India’s broader goals under ‘Make in India’ and ‘Atmanirbhar Bharat’ initiatives aimed at fostering self-reliance.During his address at the event, Sonowal highlighted India’s growing influence within global shipbuilding circles; he noted that Indian shipyards currently account for 11% of orders from Norway’s Shipowners’ Association (NSA). He advocated for expanding bilateral agreements while emphasizing collaboration on lasting shipping practices aimed at reducing carbon footprints.

Sonowal also discussed opportunities arising from India’s Sagarmala program alongside a $2.9 billion Maritime Progress Fund dedicated to enhancing shipbuilding capabilities as well as port infrastructure projects.

Along with these discussions, Sonowal participated in a ministerial roundtable focused on shaping the future of ocean shipping alongside representatives from countries like the US, China, Brazil, Japan—and even members from UN agencies—where they deliberated on establishing stable regulations conducive to sustainable maritime trade practices.

The Indian delegation showcased its commitment towards green ports development along with investments into alternative fuels such as green hydrogen while promoting digital platforms like ONOP and MAITRI designed for innovation within maritime operations. Officials expressed confidence that India is poised to emerge as a global leader offering cost-effective yet eco-kind solutions across various sectors of maritime activity.

GRSE reiterated its dedication towards technological advancement coupled with international cooperation through this mou—a testament not only to India’s scientific ambitions but also its burgeoning strength within global maritime endeavors. once completed,this PRV will considerably bolster India’s research capabilities while reinforcing its position within international collaborations focused on polar studies related to climate change.