What is the current size and potential of the Indian shipbuilding industry?
In terms of percentage of world shipbuilding production, it is around 1 per cent. The government expects the Indian shipbuilding industry to grow seven times; Our industry is committed to growing seven times in the next five to 10 years. We should reach 7 per cent of global shipbuilding capacity by around 2017. This estimated growth will need an investment of a few thousand crores. Most of the estimated future investment will come from the private sector that will drive future growth in the shipbuilding sector. What about global players entering shipbuilding? They are welcome; the more the merrier. It will make us more professional, more competitive, and will also open up opportunities for us. With larger players taking centre stage, will there be space for smaller players? Absolutely, we have a role to play. I can assure you that if Daewoo or Samsung came to India and tried to build vessels that we are building, they will give up and run away. We are in a different field altogether. W
