Chief Minister MK Stalin announced the establishment of shipyards in Thoothukudi, costing Rs 30,000 crore, aiming to elevate southern Tamil Nadu on the global shipbuilding map. This initiative will create around 55,000 jobs, reinforcing the region’s maritime heritage and fostering economic growth through the modern “Dravidian model.”
V. O. Chidambaranar Port in Thoothukudi has made history as India’s first port to produce green hydrogen and exceed 1 MW in rooftop solar power. Chairperson Susanta Kumar Purohit announced this at the “Green Ports and Shipping” conference, emphasizing India’s commitment to sustainable maritime operations and net-zero emissions targets.
The Shipping Corporation of India (SCI) is launching a coastal container service connecting Kandla Port and VOC Port in Thoothukudi. This initiative will enhance coastal connectivity between Gujarat and Tamil Nadu, facilitating the transport of various commodities. The inaugural ship is set to arrive on June 16.
The VOC Port Authority is in talks with a Korean conglomerate to develop a shipbuilding facility in Thoothukudi. Ministry of Port, Shipping, and Waterways, along with Invest India, are facilitating discussions. Plans to expand the fleet size and establish a green hydrogen hub are underway. Tamil Nadu has shown interest in hosting the infrastructure.
An autonomous surface vessel by Sagar Defence Engineering completed a 1,500-km journey from Mumbai to Thoothukudi without human intervention, backed by the Indian Navy. Named ‘Sagarmala Parikrama’, this milestone showcases India’s progress in autonomous maritime technology. This initiative highlights India’s commitment to developing cutting-edge unmanned systems for national security, supported by the Navy’s various wings.
