India Plans ₹51,383 Crore Push to Add 62 Ships in FY27

The Government of India is advancing a major shipping capacity expansion plan for FY 2026-27. The initiative involves adding 62 vessels, backed by a budgetary allocation of ₹51,383 crore.

The Ministry of Ports, Shipping and Waterways stated that the plan is aimed at strengthening maritime self-reliance and supply chain resilience. The announcement follows heightened focus on global trade risks and strategic shipping routes.

FY27 Shipping Capacity Expansion Plan

The proposed plan targets the addition of 62 vessels during FY 2026-27, creating an estimated additional capacity of 2.85 million gross tonnage. The allocation of ₹51,383 crore reflects the government’s increased emphasis on domestic ship ownership and fleet expansion.

The vessels are expected to span multiple categories to support diversified cargo needs. This expansion is positioned as a key step under the broader Atmanirbhar Bharat framework for shipping.

Focus on Strategic Vessel Segments

The government has identified several vessel segments for capacity augmentation to address evolving trade requirements. These include container ships, LPG carriers, crude oil carriers, dredging vessels, green tugs, and tankers.

Expanding these segments is aimed at reducing dependence on foreign-flagged ships. The diversification of vessel types is intended to ensure continuity of essential cargo movement under varied global conditions.

Inter-Ministerial Coordination and Review

Union Minister Sarbananda Sonowal chaired a high-level inter-ministerial review meeting to assess preparedness and capacity gaps. The meeting included officials from the Ministries of Petroleum and Natural Gas, Chemicals and Fertilisers, and Commerce and Industry, along with maritime regulators.

Discussions focused on cargo flows, vessel movements, and operational readiness across key maritime corridors. Particular attention was given to the Strait of Hormuz, given its relevance to energy and trade security.

Roadmap, Security, and Operational Preparedness

The Minister directed departments to develop a concise white paper outlining sectoral gaps, targets, and timelines. The roadmap is expected to guide coordinated action across shipping, energy, and trade-linked ministries.

Emphasis was also placed on maintaining heightened vigilance in sensitive maritime zones. The safety and security of Indian seafarers were reiterated as a priority amid geopolitical uncertainty.

Read More: India Expands Russian Insurers List for Marine Cover at Ports.

Conclusion

The plan to add 62 vessels in FY 2026-27 reflects a significant policy push to strengthen India’s maritime ecosystem. The ₹51,383 crore allocation underscores the strategic importance of shipping in economic resilience and global trade participation.

Enhanced inter-ministerial coordination aims to align shipping capacity with energy, fertiliser, and trade supply chains. Overall, the initiative marks a structured effort to build long-term maritime capability and operational preparedness.

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