An ambitious plan to enhance Maharashtra’s maritime sector has been set in motion through the development of large shipyard clusters along its coastline. The project, which is expected to attract investments exceeding ₹6,600 crore and create nearly 40,000 jobs by 2030, has been positioned as a transformative step for the state’s economic and industrial growth.
Oversight of the initiative has been entrusted to the Maharashtra Maritime Board (MMB), which has already identified six potential coastal sites. Out of these, three locations—Nandgaon in Palghar, Dighi in Raigad, and Vijaydurg in Sindhudurg—have been shortlisted for evaluation during the first phase. A consultant is soon to be appointed to carry out a detailed techno-economic feasibility study and prepare the necessary Detailed Project Report (DPR).
According to preliminary assessments, Nandgaon has been projected as the largest proposed yard, with an area of 2,666 acres, which includes an intertidal zone. Dighi has been earmarked for 2,550 acres, while Vijaydurg is expected to span 1,371 acres. The consultant’s mandate will not only include financial, market, and site evaluation but also engineering design, social and environmental impact assessments, and identification of potential risks along with mitigation strategies.
It was highlighted by officials that the consultant would be required to align the project with global best practices, adhere to national and international standards, and frame a model that could invite foreign and domestic investments, generate large-scale employment, and foster indigenous shipbuilding capabilities. By doing so, Maharashtra is expected to be positioned as a maritime hub of global importance. A tender for the appointment of the consultant has already been issued.
The project is being guided by the Shipbuilding, Ship Repair and Ship Recycling Policy, 2025, which was approved by the state cabinet earlier this year. The policy is Maharashtra’s first in this sector and has been designed to support industrial growth through financial incentives and streamlined processes. Provisions include a 15% capital subsidy, funding up to ₹1 crore for skill development per project, and research and development support up to ₹25 crore. Concessional land allocation through renewable 30-year leases and assistance with permits and approvals have also been assured.
A phased strategy has been adopted by the state government, with development to begin with one shipyard cluster. Expansion to other identified locations will be decided upon after gauging the response of industry stakeholders. The project, once operational, is expected to enhance employment opportunities, boost local industry participation, and establish Maharashtra as a critical maritime hub on the international stage.