Pratik Bijlani –
The Government of India is set to induct specialised naval architects into the Directorate General of Shipping (DGS) as part of a broader strategy to strengthen domestic shipbuilding capabilities and reduce reliance on foreign-built vessels. The initiative, led by the Ministry of Ports, Shipping and Waterways, aims to enhance the regulator’s in-house technical expertise and align India’s maritime standards with global best practices.
Officials indicate that around 15 naval architects will be appointed to form the technical backbone of a dedicated Shipbuilding Cell within the DGS. These professionals will bring expertise in ship design, construction quality, safety standards, digital infrastructure, and investment facilitation, enabling the regulator to provide structured consultancy support to Indian shipyards. The move is expected to strengthen project planning, execution, and compliance while improving overall industry competitiveness.
The Shipbuilding Cell will play a critical role in evaluating existing and proposed shipyards, assessing infrastructure, capacity, and upgrade requirements, and preparing feasibility studies and concept plans for shipbuilding and repair projects. It will also develop standardised design specifications and support financial modelling, helping create bankable project proposals to attract both domestic and international investment.
The development comes as the DGS transitions into the Directorate General of Maritime Administration under the new Merchant Shipping Act, expanding its mandate to include digital administration, green energy initiatives, and enhanced maritime security. The integration of naval architects is expected to support this transformation, reinforcing the regulator’s ability to drive policy implementation and sectoral growth.
Industry experts believe the move signals a clear commitment to building indigenous capacity and improving ease of doing business in the maritime sector. By combining regulatory reform with technical capability, India aims to accelerate its ambitions of becoming a top global shipbuilding nation while fostering a more resilient and self-reliant maritime ecosystem.