In a powerful address at Kolkata’s Garden Reach Shipbuilders & Engineers (GRSE), Defence Minister Rajnath Singh called on the shipyard to pioneer advanced vessels in the technology era, positioning it as a cornerstone for India’s developed nation goal by 2047.
Visiting the facility to connect with employees and families, Singh stressed adaptation to rapid technological shifts. He envisioned GRSE constructing innovative platforms that set global benchmarks in shipbuilding, directly supporting PM Modi’s Viksit Bharat initiative.
Reflecting on GRSE’s storied past, Singh noted its 150-year journey delivering warships, frigates, and vessels to the Navy and Coast Guard, fortifying India’s sea defenses and boosting the blue economy. ‘Indian shipyards like GRSE are vibrant pages of our defense and industrial saga,’ he said.
Singh movingly described GRSE-built ships as symbols beyond metal: representations of collective labor, inventive engineering, meticulous craftsmanship, and patriotic fervor. He hailed workers as nation-builders, not just professionals, whose grit has achieved extraordinary feats.
Looking ahead, the minister acknowledged rising challenges like novel tech and fierce rivalry but rallied the workforce: ‘Your unwavering effort will elevate GRSE to stellar heights in worldwide shipbuilding.’
The occasion brimmed with energy as families presented colorful cultural shows, earning Singh’s praise for showcasing India’s pluralistic unity and rich traditions. Present were GRSE’s top leadership, including CMD Commodore P R Hari (Retd.), and defence ministry dignitaries.