India Launches Mission to Build Green Hydrogen-Powered Ships

Swift Summary

• Announcement: Union Minister Sarbananda Sonowal informed Lok Sabha about India constructing its first green hydrogen-powered ships.
• Developers: Cochin Shipyard Limited and Mazagon Dock Shipbuilders Limited are building one ship each using indigenous hydrogen fuel cell technology.
• Objective: Aligns with India’s vision to adopt eco-kind fuel alternatives and reduce maritime transport pollution.
• Funding: ₹115 crore allocated for the National Green Hydrogen Mission up to 2025-26,covering ship design,trials,infrastructure growth,and pilot projects.
• Implementation Plan:

– Phase 1: Retrofitting existing vessels with hydrogen fuel capabilities.
– Phase 2: Developing hydrogen refueling infrastructure at key ports (e.g., Tuticorin Port).

• Key Partners & Projects: Shipping Corporation of India and V.O. Chidambaranar Port Authority as lead implementation partners. VOCPA has proposed a green methanol bunkering facility in Tuticorin (750 cubic metres capacity).
• other Developments: Deendayal port, Paradip Port, and Tuticorin Port are earmarked as future hubs for green hydrogen production and export.

Indian Opinion Analysis

India’s move toward integrating green hydrogen into its maritime sector marks a notable shift toward lasting transportation solutions. Hydrogen-powered ships not only reinforce environmental commitments but also position the nation as an emerging leader in clean energy innovation on a global scale. The phased strategy ensures adaptability by initially retrofitting older vessels while laying the foundation for long-term infrastructure development.

Allocating ₹115 crore underlines both government intent and potential economic opportunities-by turning major ports into renewable energy hubs, India could stimulate regional development while reducing environmental impact across international shipping lanes. However, execution will be critical; timely delivery of pilot projects is essential to ensure stakeholder confidence in domestic technological capacities.

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