MoPSW Signs Implementation Plan with KOICA to Boost Skill Development in India’s Shipbuilding Sector

In a significant step towards strengthening India's maritime capabilities, the Ministry of Ports, Shipping and Waterways (MoPSW), Government of India, has signed a Plan of Implementation with the Korea International Cooperation Agency (KOICA) on 02 April 2026 for a landmark project on skill development in the Indian shipbuilding sector.

Aligned with the ambitious goals outlined under the Maritime Amrit Kaal Vision 2047, the project titled 'Support the Establishment of Development Strategies and to Build a Foundation for Skilled and Professional Talents for the Indian Shipbuilding and Marine Sector' aims to position shipbuilding as a strategically vital sector for India's economic growth and global maritime standing.

Under this collaboration, KOICA, with the support of the Korea Research Institute for Vocational Education and Training and other stakeholders, will undertake comprehensive research on India's shipbuilding and marine engineering industries. The initiative will focus on workforce mapping, skill gap assessment, and the development of a robust master plan and actionable roadmap for human resource development in the sector.

Speaking on this, the Union Minister of Ports, Shipping & Waterways (MoPSW), Sarbananda Sonowal said, "This partnership marks a defining moment in India's maritime journey, as we move towards building a future-ready, globally competitive shipbuilding ecosystem. Under the visionary leadership of Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi ji, India is transforming its maritime sector into a key driver of economic growth and strategic strength. This collaboration is about creating a robust foundation for a new generation of highly skilled, technologically empowered maritime professionals who will power India's rise as a global shipbuilding hub. By leveraging the Republic of Korea's advanced expertise and aligning it with our national priorities under Maritime Amrit Kaal Vision 2047, we are ensuring that our workforce is equipped to meet the demands of a rapidly evolving global maritime landscape. This initiative will strengthen institutional capacity, foster innovation, and generate high-quality employment opportunities, particularly for our youth. It reaffirms our commitment to building an Atmanirbhar maritime sector that is resilient, future-oriented and globally respected."

As part of the project, a series of bilateral workshops on workforce development are planned to be conducted in both India and the Republic of Korea. These workshops will bring together key stakeholders, industry leaders, policymakers, and academic experts to exchange best practices and foster deeper cooperation.

The collaboration is expected to significantly contribute to the advancement of India's shipbuilding and marine sectors by leveraging Korea's globally recognised technological expertise and experience. It will facilitate workforce analysis, enhance institutional capacity, and support the formulation of structured training programs aimed at developing a highly skilled and future-ready maritime workforce.

Further strengthening this partnership, discussions between MoPSW and KOICA are in the final stages for the establishment of a 'Shipbuilding Workforce Development and Technology Cooperation Center' in India. The proposed centre will focus on delivering industry-oriented vocational training, enhancing technical competencies, and improving productivity through advanced skill development programs tailored to the needs of the shipbuilding ecosystem.

This initiative marks a major milestone in India's journey towards becoming a global hub for shipbuilding and maritime services, reinforcing the Government's commitment to capacity building, international collaboration, and sustainable maritime growth.

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MI/PN/IY