The Indian Coast Guard (ICG) and Jindal Steel and Power (JSP) have inked a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) in New Delhi, aimed at bolstering the supply of indigenous marine-grade steel for shipbuilding projects.
According to a Ministry of Defence press release, the MoU underscores the commitment of both entities to boost indigenization efforts and enhance the utilization of marine-grade steel in domestic shipbuilding initiatives.
Key provisions of the MoU include specifications regarding the quality, grades, and dimensions of marine-grade steel, as well as the identification of designated steel plants responsible for manufacturing the product. These measures are set to ensure a timely and high-quality supply of marine-grade steel for the Indian Coast Guard’s shipbuilding endeavors.
The MoU highlights the critical role of public-private partnerships in tackling intricate security challenges, emphasizing the necessity of cooperation between governmental bodies and the private sector. It also outlines various significant advantages such as quality, grades, and dimensions, alongside the identification of specific steel plants tasked with manufacturing the product. These provisions serve as assurances to shipbuilding yards, ensuring a timely and consistent supply of marine-grade steel for the Indian Coast Guard.
The signing ceremony, attended by senior officers of the Indian Coast Guard and representatives from Jindal Steel & Power, emphasizes the pivotal role of public-private partnerships in addressing complex security challenges. The collaboration aligns with the government’s ‘Make in India’ and ‘Atmanirbhar Bharat’ initiatives, signifying a strategic step towards self-reliance in the defence sector.
Additionally, in a significant development on May 6, the Indian Coast Guard inked a contract with Armoured Vehicle Nigam Limited for the procurement of ten 30 mm CRN-91 guns along with SOP. These guns are already inducted weapons in the Coast Guard and are indigenously manufactured in India by Ordinance Factory Medak.
By leveraging the expertise of the private sector, the Indian Coast Guard aims to enhance the quality and efficiency of its fleet while reducing dependency on imported materials. The MoU between the ICG and JSP marks a significant milestone towards bolstering India’s maritime capabilities and achieving self-reliance in shipbuilding.