Syllabus:

GS3: Conservation, environmental pollution and degradation, environmental impact assessment.

Context:

Memorandum of understanding (MoU) signed between Kolkata-based Garden Reach Shipbuilders and Engineers Limited (GRSE) and Norway’s Kongsberg Oslo paved the way for India to build its first-ever indigenous Polar Research Vessel (PRV).

More on the News

• The vessel will support scientific exploration, climate research, and marine ecosystem studies.
• It will reinforce the ‘Make in India’ initiative by showcasing India’s advanced shipbuilding expertise.
• It will serve the National Centre for Polar and Ocean Research (NCPOR).

Polar Research Vessel (PRV) 

It is a specially designed ship used for conducting research in polar regions, particularly the Arctic and Antarctic

The National Centre for Polar and Ocean Research (NCPOR), Goa, will use the PRV for research in the polar and southern ocean realms.

The vessel will be equipped with cutting-edge scientific tools to:

• Explore ocean depths
• Study marine ecosystems
• Investigate Earth’s past, present, and future climate systems

India’s Strategic Maritime Goals

Promote green ports and clean energy, including green hydrogen.

Drive innovation through digital platforms like:

• ONOP (Online Nautical Operations Platform)
• MAITRI (Maritime Transformation Real-Time Insights)

Strengthening India–Norway Maritime Partnership

• Indian shipyards hold 11% of the Norwegian Shipowners’ Association (NSA’s) global order book.
• Urged for increased orders, including leveraging India’s ship-breaking credit incentive scheme.
• India ranks 2nd in seafaring workforce on NSA vessels — calls for stronger recruitment ties.

Investment Opportunities in India

The Sagarmala programme and the $2.9 billion Maritime Development Fund offer incentives across:

• Shipbuilding
• Port modernisation
• Logistics infrastructure

87% of India’s ship recycling yards are HKC-compliant, making India a reliable global hub.

• An HKC-compliant ship is one that meets the requirements of the Hong Kong International Convention for the Safe and Environmentally Sound Recycling of Ships (HKC). 

UPSC Mains Practice Question

Q. Discuss the strategic importance of India's first indigenous Polar Research Vessel (PRV) in the context of scientific research, climate change, and India's maritime capabilities. Also highlight the role of international collaborations in strengthening India’s shipbuilding sector.