Defence Minister Rajnath Singh inaugurated Sagar Sankalp – Reclaiming India’s Maritime Glory in Kolkata on March 6, 2026. Organized by The Week and GRSE, the conclave brought naval leaders, policymakers, and industry together to discuss maritime security, shipbuilding, and Atmanirbhar Bharat. Singh emphasized India’s naval modernization, self-reliance, and Indo-Pacific preparedness.
In a landmark address at the Sagar Sankalp conclave in Kolkata, Defence Minister Rajnath Singh praised Garden Reach Shipbuilders & Engineers (GRSE) for its historic and modern contributions to India’s maritime strength. The event, jointly organized by The Week and GRSE, convened senior naval leadership, policymakers, and industry stakeholders to deliberate on India’s maritime future.
Key Highlights
Ministerial Address: Rajnath Singh underscored the centrality of maritime power in shaping India’s strategic and economic resurgence.
Atmanirbhar Push: He highlighted reforms driving domestic design, development, and manufacturing, with shipyards delivering complex platforms of rising indigenous content.
GRSE’s Legacy: From a 19th-century riverside workshop to a premier shipyard, GRSE has built frigates, corvettes, anti-submarine warships, and landing ships, while also exporting platforms to friendly nations.
Indo-Pacific Focus: Singh stressed India’s responsibility to safeguard interests amid evolving maritime challenges, including cyber and unmanned threats.
Industry Collaboration: He emphasized strengthening domestic supply chains, MSMEs, and start-ups as engines of maritime innovation.
Historical Context: GRSE CMD Commodore PR Hari recalled India’s maritime legacy from Harappan docks to Chola fleets, framing GRSE as a symbol of indigenous warship building.
Outlook
The conclave concluded with a shared commitment to translate strategic vision into industrial growth and enhanced maritime capability, positioning India as a competitive global shipbuilding hub. Singh’s call to “reclaim India’s maritime glory” reflects a long-term national resolve for capability, confidence, and collaboration.
Sources: Press Information Bureau (PIB), The Week, GRSE official release, Business Standard