Made in India Takes to the High Seas, GRSE Launches Sagar Manthan

Kolkata based Garden Reach Shipbuilders and Engineers (GRSE) has launched Sagar Manthan, an indigenous ocean research vessel being built for the National Centre for Polar and Ocean Research (NCPOR). The vessel was launched on Wednesday, September 9, 2026, marking another step in India efforts to strengthen its capabilities in deep sea exploration, marine research and oceanographic science. ₹840 Crore Research Vessel According to a top government official, the research vessel has a project cost of approximately ₹840 crore and is expected to be ready for operational use by early 2028. The vessel is being developed to support India scientific missions and research activities in the oceans, potentially expanding the country’s ability to study marine environments and conduct deep-sea scientific investigations. Boost to Indigenous Shipbuilding The launch also underlines the growing role of domestic shipyards in developing specialised vessels for scientific and research purposes. For India, strengthening indigenous capabilities in ocean research has strategic as well as scientific importance. The country has a long coastline and an expanding interest in marine resources, climate research, polar studies and deep sea exploration. Sagar Manthan is therefore expected to contribute to the country broader scientific infrastructure once it enters service. Looking Ahead to 2028 With delivery expected in early 2028, the vessel will have to undergo further construction, outfitting, testing and commissioning before beginning its research missions. Its eventual impact will depend on the capabilities and scientific equipment it carries, as well as the research programmes undertaken by NCPOR. The launch nevertheless represents a significant milestone in India’s pursuit of greater self reliance in specialised ship building and ocean science.