GRSE Launches Indigenous Ocean Research Vessel ‘Sagar Manthan’
Mumbai: Garden Reach Shipbuilders (GRSE) launched a new ocean research vessel named Sagar Manthan today in Kolkata. The ship is being built for the National Centre for Polar and Ocean Research (NCPOR) under the Ministry of Earth Sciences.
The launch took place at GRSE’s Rishi Bankim Shipyard. Interestingly, the keel of the vessel was laid only five months ago, showing that the shipyard completed this milestone ahead of schedule.
Who Attended the Event
Dr Jitendra Singh, Union Minister of State for Science & Technology and Earth Sciences, was present as the Chief Guest. Dr Srinivasa Kumar Tummala, Secretary of the Ministry of Earth Sciences, attended as the Guest of Honour.
As per tradition, the vessel was named by Smt Manju Singh and launched by Smt Kavita Ellanti. Senior officials from GRSE, the Ministry of Earth Sciences and NCPOR were also present.
About the Vessel
Sagar Manthan is 89.50 metres long and 18.80 metres wide. It has a gross tonnage of 5,900 tonnes and is designed to sail at a speed of 14 knots.
Once ready, the ship will be able to carry out deep-sea surveys up to 6 km depth, collect water and seabed samples, gather ocean and weather data, and support onboard research work. It will also help train scientists and technicians.
Why This Launch Matters
The vessel is being built under India’s Deep Ocean Mission. It is a fully indigenous research ship and reflects the country’s growing strength in specialised shipbuilding.
GRSE has earlier delivered several survey vessels to the Indian Navy. The shipyard is currently also building an Acoustic Research Ship and two Coastal Research Vessels, apart from multiple warships.
Cmde PR Hari (Retd.), Chairman and Managing Director of GRSE, said the yard now stands for self-reliance in both warships and research vessels.
Source: Official statement from GRSE, 9 September 2026