New Delhi [India], April 3 (ANI): The Ministry of Ports, Shipping and Waterways (MoPSW) has signed a Plan of Implementation with the Korea International Cooperation Agency (KOICA) to strengthen skill development in India's shipbuilding and marine sector, marking a significant step towards enhancing maritime capabilities.

In an official statement on Friday, the Ministry of Ports, Shipping and Waterways stated that the agreement signed on Thursday aims to support the development of a skilled workforce and position shipbuilding as a key driver of India's economic growth under the Maritime Amrit Kaal Vision 2047.

It stated, 'Aligned with the ambitious goals outlined under the Maritime Amrit Kaal Vision 2047, the project titled 'Support the Establishment of Development Strategies and to Build a Foundation for Skilled and Professional Talents for the Indian Shipbuilding and Marine Sector' aims to position shipbuilding as a strategically vital sector for India's economic growth and global maritime standing'.

Under the collaboration, KOICA, along with the Korea Research Institute for Vocational Education and Training and other stakeholders, will conduct detailed research on India's shipbuilding and marine engineering sectors.

The initiative will include workforce mapping, skill gap assessment and the preparation of a comprehensive roadmap for human resource development.

Union Minister of Ports, Shipping and Waterways Sarbananda Sonowal said the partnership is a major step towards building a globally competitive shipbuilding ecosystem in India.

'This partnership marks a defining moment in India's maritime journey, as we move towards building a future-ready, globally competitive shipbuilding ecosystem,' Sonowal said.

He added that the initiative aligns with the vision of transforming India's maritime sector into a key contributor to economic growth and strategic strength.

'This collaboration is about creating a robust foundation for a new generation of highly skilled, technologically empowered maritime professionals who will power India's rise as a global shipbuilding hub,' he said.

As part of the project, a series of bilateral workshops will be organised in both India and the Republic of Korea. These workshops will bring together industry leaders, policymakers, and academic experts to share best practices and strengthen cooperation.

The collaboration is expected to enhance institutional capacity, improve workforce skills, and support the creation of structured training programmes tailored to industry needs.

In addition, discussions are at an advanced stage for setting up a 'Shipbuilding Workforce Development and Technology Cooperation Center' in India. The proposed centre will focus on providing industry-oriented vocational training, improving technical capabilities and boosting productivity in the sector.

The initiative is expected to play a key role in strengthening India's shipbuilding and marine ecosystem by leveraging South Korea's technological expertise and experience. (ANI)