Goa Shipyard Limited (GSL) marked India’s 78th Independence Day by celebrating its significant milestones in shipbuilding, a core area of its expertise. The event, held on August 15, 2024, at GSL’s Vasco da Gama premises in Goa, highlighted the shipyard’s growing capabilities and its ambitious plans for future growth, all aligned with the nation’s vision of a “Viksit Bharat” (Developed India).
Major Achievements in Shipbuilding
GSL’s Chairman and Managing Director, Brajesh Kumar Upadhyay, began the Independence Day celebrations by hoisting the national flag and inspecting the Guard of Honour. In his address, he spotlighted GSL’s recent achievements, including the successful launch of the first frigate under the P11356 program. This frigate, the largest and most complex warship ever built by GSL, stands as a testament to the shipyard’s advanced capabilities and its vital role in strengthening India’s maritime defence.
A Vision for Future Growth
Upadhyay shared GSL’s ambitious plans for the coming years, revealing that the shipyard’s current order book stands at over Rs 18,000 crore, with 21 platforms under execution. He expressed confidence that this figure will rise to Rs 30,000 crore by next year, driven by new projects from the Indian Navy and Coast Guard. These orders not only reflect GSL’s critical role in India’s defence sector but also promise continued innovation and expansion in shipbuilding.
Expanding into International Markets
In addition to its domestic projects, GSL is making strides internationally. Upadhyay announced a significant contract with a Luxembourg-based company to construct a New Generation Hopper Dredger. This project marks GSL’s entry into the global commercial vessel market, demonstrating the shipyard’s ability to compete on the international stage and expand its reach beyond India’s shores.
Commitment to Sustainability
GSL’s focus on innovation extends beyond shipbuilding to include sustainable practices. On Independence Day, Mr. Upadhyay launched the “Ek Ped Maa Ke Naam” (A Tree in Mother’s Name) initiative, which encourages employees to plant a tree in honour of their mothers. This initiative not only aims to increase green cover but also reinforces GSL’s commitment to environmental stewardship, aligning with India’s broader goals of sustainable development.
Celebrating with the Community
The celebrations also included GSL’s participation in the national “Har Ghar Tiranga” (Flag at Every Home) campaign, fostering a sense of patriotism by encouraging employees to hoist the national flag at their homes. The event featured cultural performances by the children of GSL employees, showcasing India’s rich cultural diversity and unity.
Employee Welfare and Community Engagement
He recognized the dedication of GSL’s workforce, noting that their hard work is the backbone of the shipyard’s success. He urged employees to continue their involvement in community engagement initiatives, particularly those that contribute to the well-being of local communities, such as the “Nasha Mukt Bharat Abhiyan” (Drug-Free India Campaign).