Mazagon Dock Shipbuilders Limited (MDL), one of India’s premier shipbuilding yards, celebrated its 250th Foundation Day today with a series of high-profile events in Mumbai. The celebrations were presided over by Defence Secretary Shri Giridhar Aramane, who hailed MDL as a “precious jewel of India” for its significant contributions to the nation’s economy and security.
The day’s events included the inauguration of newly acquired land from the Mumbai Port Authority (MPA), the launch of a prototype indigenous midget submarine, the commissioning of a Solar Electric Hybrid boat and a Fuel Cell Electric Ferry, the release of a commemorative coin, and a technical seminar focusing on emerging technologies in shipbuilding.
Shri Giridhar Aramane inaugurated the contiguous piece of land acquired from the Mumbai Port Authority. This new land acquisition is set to enhance MDL’s capabilities for simultaneous construction, outfitting, and repairs of various types of vessels.
The Defence Secretary emphasized that this new infrastructure would provide MDL with the bandwidth to execute multiple projects concurrently, further strengthening India’s shipbuilding industry.
A significant highlight of the day was the launch of the midget submarine ‘Arowana’. Designed and built by MDL as a proof of concept, this submarine marks a milestone in India’s indigenous submarine development.
MDL has been building submarines with foreign designs since 1984, and this launch represents a step towards self-reliance in defense technology. The team is also working on a full-scale conventional submarine, aiming for completion by 2028.
The Defence Secretary also commissioned a Solar Electric Hybrid boat, designed and co-developed with an indigenous technology partner. This eco-friendly vessel boasts a top speed of 11 knots, with running costs approximately one-tenth that of a diesel boat and minimal maintenance requirements. This innovation underscores MDL’s commitment to sustainable maritime technology.
Adding to the green initiatives, Shri Giridhar Aramane commissioned the Fuel Cell Electric Ferry named ‘SUCHI’. This 24-passenger ferry, developed with indigenous technology, features zero emissions and low acoustic signatures, promoting cleaner waterways and contributing to environmental conservation.
To commemorate the occasion, a technical seminar on ‘Emerging Technologies and the Future of Shipbuilding’ was held, inaugurated by the Defence Secretary.
The seminar brought together experts from various fields to discuss advancements and future directions in shipbuilding technology. Additionally, a commemorative coin issued by the Reserve Bank of India was released, celebrating 250 years of MDL’s rich history and legacy.
In his address, Shri Aramane lauded MDL for its unparalleled contributions to both naval and commercial shipbuilding. He highlighted the yard’s role in bolstering the Indian Navy’s capabilities and its substantial export market and collaborations with foreign players.
“MDL has immensely contributed to the nation’s economy and security. India occupies a central role in the Indo-Pacific region, and strengthening our shipbuilding capabilities is paramount,” he stated.
The Defence Secretary underscored the importance of achieving self-reliance in shipbuilding and encouraged MDL to continue its pursuit of excellence in warship building technology. He urged collaboration with the private sector to build a consortium of shipbuilders catering to domestic needs and those of friendly nations.
From its humble beginnings as a small dry dock in 1774 to its incorporation in 1934 and subsequent stewardship under the Government of India since 1960, MDL’s 250-year journey is a testament to resilience, growth, and an enduring legacy.
Today, it stands as the country’s largest shipyard, contributing significantly to the Indian Navy and the broader maritime industry.
The celebrations of MDL’s 250th Foundation Day not only honored its past achievements but also set the stage for future innovations and advancements in India’s shipbuilding sector.
