India’s VLGC Shivalik Anchors Under National Flag, Strengthening Maritime ‘Atmanirbharata’
The Union Minister of Ports, Shipping and Waterways, Shri Sarbananda Sonowal, recently welcomed the induction of India’s third Very Large Gas Carrier (VLGC), named “Shivalik,” into the national fleet. This significant event took place at Visakhapatnam Port and is seen as a pivotal moment in India’s maritime development and energy security, aligning with Prime Minister Narendra Modi‘s vision for a self-reliant maritime sector by 2047. The arrival of the Shivalik not only enhances India’s shipping capabilities but also strengthens its position in the global energy trade.
Significance of the Shivalik’s Induction
The Shivalik, with a capacity of 82,000 cubic meters, was officially inducted into the Shipping Corporation of India Ltd. (SCI) fleet on September 10, 2025. This vessel, named after the Himalayan range, joins two other VLGCs, Sahyadri and Anandamayi, in SCI’s fleet. Built in South Korea, the Shivalik is 225 meters long and features advanced engineering, including segregated tanks and sophisticated temperature control systems, ensuring compliance with international safety and efficiency standards. Its maiden voyage involved transporting over 46,000 metric tonnes of liquefied petroleum gas (LPG) from Ruwais, UAE, to India, marking a significant step in enhancing the country’s energy connectivity.
Minister Sonowal emphasized that the Shivalik’s arrival under the Indian flag is more than just an expansion of the fleet; it symbolizes India’s growing confidence and capability in the maritime sector. He stated that this development reflects the nation’s commitment to achieving self-reliance in shipping and reducing dependence on foreign carriers for critical energy supplies. The vessel’s strategic significance lies in its role in ensuring secure and efficient transportation of LPG, thereby bolstering India’s energy security.
Government Initiatives for Maritime Expansion
The induction of the Shivalik aligns with the Indian government’s broader strategy to enhance maritime capacity and energy resilience. The Shipping Corporation of India is actively collaborating with oil and steel public sector undertakings to develop a fleet of 112 vessels through a joint venture aimed at long-term fleet augmentation. This initiative is expected to save the nation approximately $75 billion annually in foreign exchange spent on freight charges to foreign shipping lines.
Furthermore, the government is taking steps to strengthen the dry bulk segment and enhance India’s presence in container shipping through the establishment of the Bharat Container Shipping Line (BCSL). These initiatives are designed not only to reinforce India’s energy security but also to stimulate domestic shipbuilding, repair, and ancillary industries, thereby creating high-quality employment opportunities.
Minister Sonowal highlighted a comprehensive ₹69,725 crore package aimed at modernizing the maritime and shipbuilding sectors. The government has extended the Shipbuilding Financial Assistance Scheme until 2036, ensuring ongoing support for Indian shipyards. Additionally, the establishment of a Maritime Development Fund worth ₹25,000 crore will facilitate long-term financing and enhance the global competitiveness of the industry.
Future Vision for India’s Maritime Sector
The Union Minister articulated a vision for India to become a leading maritime nation by 2047, aspiring to be among the top five globally. He described the current period as a “golden era” for India’s maritime sector, characterized by unprecedented transformation through policy reforms and infrastructure development. The government’s initiatives aim to create a robust maritime ecosystem that supports the design, building, financing, ownership, repair, and recycling of vessels within India.
Sonowal urged stakeholders to embrace this transformative moment, emphasizing that the arrival of the Shivalik represents India’s journey toward maritime self-reliance and strength. He expressed confidence that the nation is scripting a new chapter in its maritime destiny, one that sails proudly under the Indian flag.
The event was attended by several dignitaries, including Visakhapatnam MP Mathukumili Sribharat and SCI Chairman Capt. B. K. Tyagi. They were given a guided tour of the Shivalik, showcasing the government’s commitment to bolstering Indian-flagged shipping and enhancing the country’s maritime presence. The Shivalik, equipped with state-of-the-art technology, stands as a testament to India’s capabilities in maritime engineering and operational efficiency, further solidifying the nation’s position in the global shipping industry.
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