Kolkata port charts independent ship repair strategy

By Admin

27 Dec, 2025

Introduction
Syama Prasad Mookerjee Port, Kolkata (SMPK), has taken a decisive step towards strengthening its position in India’s maritime repair sector by formally exiting its joint venture structure with Cochin Shipyard Ltd (CSL). While concluding this collaborative phase, the port has reaffirmed its long-term vision to independently scale up ship repair capabilities, aligned with national maritime and industrial goals.

Conclusion of the Joint Venture
According to an official statement, SMPK and CSL marked the conclusion of their joint venture with the transfer of ₹5.94 crore as shared profits generated by the Cochin–Kolkata Ship Repair Unit. The cheque was handed over to SMPK Chairman Rathendra Raman by CSL Chairman and Managing Director Madhu S. Nair during a visit to Cochin Shipyard’s ship repair facilities in Kochi. This financial closure formally ends the joint venture structure between the two entities.

Commercial Viability of Indian Ship Repair
The ₹5.94 crore profit represents the earnings accrued from joint ship repair operations carried out by SMPK and CSL. This outcome highlights the commercial viability of domestic ship repair infrastructure and reflects growing confidence in India’s ability to handle complex repair and maintenance work without relying heavily on overseas facilities. The success also reinforces the importance of well-planned collaborations in building robust maritime capabilities.

Supporting Make in India
Speaking on the occasion, Rathendra Raman noted that the positive financial results underline the increasing competitiveness of Indian ship repair yards. He emphasized that collaborative models involving ports and shipyards contribute significantly to the government’s ‘Make in India’ initiative by reducing dependence on foreign ship repair hubs and retaining value within the domestic maritime ecosystem.

Independent Expansion at Kolkata Port
With the joint venture now wound up, SMPK has indicated a stronger strategic focus on independently expanding ship repair facilities at Kolkata. The port plans to scale up infrastructure, enhance operational capacity, and attract a larger share of ship repair and maintenance work. Its strategic location and established maritime ecosystem are expected to play a key role in supporting this autonomous growth strategy.

Future Collaboration Prospects
Despite exiting the joint venture structure, both SMPK and Cochin Shipyard have expressed their intent to continue exploring cooperation opportunities in the future. As Kolkata Port charts a more ambitious and independent path for ship repair growth, such collaborations may still emerge in new formats, contributing to the broader objective of strengthening India’s ship repair and maritime services sector.