India partners with Norway to build first indigenous polar research vessel. Key details
India is set to construct its first indigenous Polar Research Vessel (PRV) following a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) signed between Garden Reach Shipbuilders and Engineers Limited (GRSE) and Norway's Kongsberg Oslo. The agreement, formalised in Oslo in the presence of Union Minister of Ports, Shipping, and Waterways, Sarbananda Sonowal, marks a significant advancement in India's maritime and scientific capabilities.The PRV will be equipped with state-of-the-art scientific instruments, enabling researchers to delve into oceanic depths and study marine ecosystems. This initiative aligns with India's commitment to scientific progress and sustainable development, providing invaluable insights into the planet's environmental dynamics.advertisementHistorically, India's polar research missions have relied on chartered vessels from the international market. The acquisition of an indigenous PRV will reduce this dependency, granting India greater autonomy in its polar explorations. The vessel is expected to play a crucial role in supporting India's research bases in Antarctica and the Arctic, facilitating continuous access essential for climate change studies and other scientific endeavors.
The collaboration with Kongsberg Oslo underscores the importance of international partnerships in achieving complex technological feats. By integrating global expertise with domestic capabilities, India aims to bolster its maritime infrastructure and scientific research. This initiative is a testament to India's strategic vision of becoming self-reliant in critical technologies while fostering global cooperation.The construction of the PRV is anticipated to be completed within the next five years, with an estimated cost of 2,600 crore. This investment reflects India's dedication to enhancing its research infrastructure and expanding its presence in polar research.advertisementIn addition to supporting polar research, the PRV will serve as a versatile platform for oceanographic studies, including research in the Southern Ocean. This multifunctional capability will enable Indian scientists to undertake comprehensive studies of marine environments, contributing to a deeper understanding of global climate systems and marine biodiversity.The initiative also aligns with India's broader maritime objectives, as articulated by Minister Sonowal during discussions at Nor Shipping 2025 in Norway. He emphasized India's vision of 'MAHASAGAR,' aiming for inclusive growth and international collaboration in the maritime sector.In summary, the construction of India's first indigenous Polar Research Vessel represents a significant milestone in the nation's scientific and maritime endeavors. By reducing reliance on foreign vessels and enhancing research capabilities, India is poised to make substantial contributions to polar science and oceanography, reinforcing its commitment to sustainable development and international cooperation.Tune InMust Watch
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