India begins construction of first green hydrogen-powered ships
India has initiated the construction of its first green hydrogen-powered ships, a significant move towards sustainable maritime transportation.
Union Minister for Ports, Shipping and Waterways Sarbananda Sonowal made this announcement in response to a question raised by MP Kesineni Shivanath in the Lok Sabha on 8 August 2025, according to a report by The Hindu.
Cochin Shipyard and Mazagon Dock Shipbuilders are each constructing a vessel powered by hydrogen fuel cells, employing indigenous technology.
This initiative is part of the government’s wider strategy to encourage the use of eco-friendly fuel alternatives and reduce pollution within the maritime sector.
The union minister was quoted as saying: “These strategic moves will not only enhance India’s use of clean and renewable fuels but also help in drastically reducing pollution levels in sea routes.”
He emphasised that the Central government’s actions would position India as a leader in green hydrogen technology and pave the way for a more sustainable and prepared maritime industry for the future.
The Centre has allocated Rs1.15bn ($13.1m) under the National Green Hydrogen Mission to be utilised up to 2025-26.
These funds are earmarked for ship design, technology testing, infrastructure enhancement, and pilot projects, supporting the transition to greener energy sources.
Implemented in two phases, the green hydrogen ship initiative aims to initially retrofit existing ships for hydrogen fuel operation, followed by the development of hydrogen refuelling infrastructure at major ports.
VOCPA has already proposed a 750m3 green methanol bunkering facility in Tuticorin, which is one of the selected sites for green hydrogen infrastructure development.
Additionally, ports such as Deendayal Port, Paradip Port, and Tuticorin Port are evolving into hydrogen hubs.
This aligns with the government’s vision to transform these locations into centres for the production and export of green hydrogen.
In a separate development, the Inland Waterways Development Council has announced an investment of Rs500bn ($5.8bn) to upgrade India’s inland waterways network, further bolstering the nation’s infrastructure.
