Panaji, October 27, 2025 — Goa is gearing up to strengthen its position as a key hub for shipbuilding in India, with a focus on sustainability, exports, and modernization of the maritime sector, Chief Minister Pramod Sawant said on Monday. Speaking at a session during the ongoing India Maritime Week in Mumbai, Sawant outlined the state government’s vision for the future of Goa’s shipbuilding industry, including plans to integrate green technology, smart shipbuilding practices, and advanced maritime logistics.

Goa’s Strategic Role in Indian Shipbuilding

According to Sawant, Goa currently holds a 40% share of India’s commercial shipbuilding market, making it the leading state in the sector. “We have set up the Shipbuilding Vision 2037 to position Goa as a green, smart shipbuilding hub. A comprehensive shipbuilding policy will follow shortly,” the CM said. He highlighted that Goa’s shipyards have already delivered sophisticated vessels for domestic and international clients, including fully electric and hybrid crafts, demonstrating the state’s capability in high-end, eco-friendly shipbuilding.

Sawant emphasised that Goa’s shipbuilding growth aligns with broader national objectives, including the promotion of tourism, modern fisheries infrastructure, and enhanced maritime logistics. “Water taxis and the ferry network are being upgraded in consultation with Kochi Metro Ltd to reduce travel time. Interstate services such as the Goa-Mumbai route are also under consideration,” he added.

Green and Sustainable Maritime Infrastructure

The chief minister highlighted the state’s commitment to eco-friendly passenger and cargo movement, noting that Goa is preparing a masterplan to become a model for sustainable maritime transport. The initiative will include modern infrastructure for green ships, adoption of renewable technologies, and initiatives to reduce carbon emissions in the sector.

Goa’s minister for river navigation added that the state is installing ten floating jetties, funded by the Inland Waterways Authority of India (IWAI), to enhance water transport and connectivity. He also mentioned that a feasibility study for water taxis is underway, which aims to bridge local communities and integrate water transport with existing road and rail networks. “The proposal of a Mumbai-Goa RoRo ferry is under active consideration,” he said.

Economic Significance and Employment

The shipbuilding industry in Goa, valued at ₹2,865 crore in FY24, has the potential to expand to ₹64,058 crore by FY37, contributing nearly 11% to the state’s GSDP. The sector currently provides over 3,000 direct jobs and 18,000 indirect jobs, making it a critical pillar of Goa’s industrial and maritime economy.

Arjun Chowgule, chairman of the CII Goa State Council, stressed that while Goa’s 40% market share is significant, it represents a relatively small base in absolute terms. “We want to ensure that Goa grows alongside India’s emergence as a global shipbuilding powerhouse, sustaining its competitive edge amid rising competition from states like Gujarat, Maharashtra, and Andhra Pradesh,” he said.

Export-Oriented Growth and Global Competitiveness

The state government plans to leverage Goa’s strategic location and established shipbuilding infrastructure to develop an export-oriented maritime industry. By focusing on green technologies and high-value vessels, the government aims to attract international clients and position Goa as a hub for eco-friendly passenger and cargo ships.

Sawant noted that this approach not only strengthens the state’s blue economy but also supports broader national priorities of sustainable industrial growth and maritime trade expansion. Modernisation of shipyards, expansion of ferry and water transport networks, and promotion of green technologies are central to achieving these objectives.

Future Plans and Vision 2037

The Shipbuilding Vision 2037 aims to integrate Goa’s maritime sector with tourism, fisheries, and transport innovation, ensuring that the state remains at the forefront of India’s commercial shipbuilding industry. The government’s plan will include:

• Expansion of shipyard capacities to accommodate advanced vessels.
• Integration of electric and hybrid ship technologies for sustainability.
• Development of water taxis, ferries, and other inland waterway solutions.
• Promotion of export-oriented production to global clients.
• Creation of a comprehensive shipbuilding policy to guide investments, infrastructure, and workforce development.

Sawant concluded that the initiative reflects Goa’s commitment to modernisation, sustainability, and global competitiveness, ensuring that the state maintains its leadership in India’s maritime sector while advancing eco-friendly solutions for cargo and passenger transport.

With the government focusing on green technologies, robust logistics, and export potential, Goa is set to become a model maritime hub, supporting both economic growth and sustainable development in line with national priorities.

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