GRSE Launches ‘Sagar Manthan’ to Strengthen India’s Ocean Research Capabilities
Garden Reach Shipbuilders and Engineers (GRSE) has launched the 89.5-metre indigenous Ocean Research Vessel (ORV) ‘Sagar Manthan’ for the National Centre for Polar and Ocean Research (NCPOR), under the Ministry of Earth Sciences. The vessel was launched at GRSE’s Rishi Bankim Shipyard in Kolkata on 9 September 2026, marking a significant milestone in India’s maritime research and indigenous shipbuilding capabilities.
Key governance highlights
₹839.55 crore project supporting India’s Deep Ocean Mission
89.5-metre-long and 5,900-tonne research vessel
Designed to operate at depths of up to 6,000 metres
Equipped for deep-sea surveys, seismic studies, seabed sampling and oceanographic research
Advanced DP2 dynamic positioning system for precision scientific operations
Strengthens Atmanirbhar Bharat in specialised shipbuilding and marine technology
Supports research on deep-sea minerals, marine resources and ocean ecosystems
The launch reflects the Government’s focus on building indigenous scientific infrastructure, enhancing ocean knowledge and strengthening India’s capacity for sustainable exploration of marine resources. ‘Sagar Manthan’ is expected to become an important platform for scientists and researchers working on deep-ocean studies, contributing to scientific innovation, resource assessment and maritime development.
Overall, the project demonstrates how coordinated efforts between GRSE, NCPOR and the Ministry of Earth Sciences can advance India’s strategic objectives in ocean science while promoting domestic engineering and technological capabilities.
