Introduction

Deendayal Port Authority (DPA) has taken a significant step towards strengthening India's maritime and shipbuilding sector by inviting e-tenders and e-auctions for the establishment of an Integrated Shipbuilding Cluster. This ambitious initiative is set to create a world-class hub for ship manufacturing, fostering self-reliance and boosting economic growth in the sector.

Key Details of the Tender

The tender process is open for the allotment of a 2,000-acre plot in Veera on a 30-year lease under the "as is, where is" basis. The primary conditions and financial requirements include:

Earnest Money Deposit (EMD): Rs 55.02 lakh per plot.

Reserve Price: Rs 27,510 per acre per year (subject to final confirmation before the bid opening).

Tender Fee: Rs 5,900 (non-refundable).

Payment Mode: Digital transfer or Bank Guarantee from a nationalized/scheduled bank in Gandhidham.

Important Dates

Pre-Bid Meeting: February 10, 2025, at 12:00 PM at the DPA Board Room in Gandhidham.

Last Date for Online Tender Submission: February 21, 2025.

Technical Bid Opening: February 21, 2025, at 4:00 PM.

Following the opening of commercial bids, an e-auction will take place, where eligible bidders will compete for the allocation of the plot.

Regulatory Approvals & Compliance

The allottees are required to obtain necessary approvals and clearances from various authorities, including:

Gujarat Pollution Control Board (GPCB)

Coastal Regulatory Zone (CRZ)

Environment & Forest Department

Chief Controller of Explosives, Nagpur

Other statutory bodies as applicable under relevant Acts

The tender process follows the Amended Land Policy Guidelines 2015 and clarifications issued by the Ministry of Ports, Shipping, and Waterways.

Strategic Location and Industrial Impact

Situated along the west coast in the Gulf of Kutch, Deendayal Port is one of India’s 12 major ports, playing a crucial role in the maritime sector. The Integrated Shipbuilding Cluster will provide a robust platform for companies specializing in the design and construction of oceangoing vessels of 5,000 GT and above.

This development aligns with India's goal of enhancing its domestic shipbuilding industry, reducing dependency on imports, and positioning itself as a global maritime leader.

Government Support & Policy Alignment

The initiative is in line with Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman’s Union Budget 2025 announcement regarding the second phase of the Shipbuilding Financial Assistance Policy (SBFAP). This policy aims to promote domestic shipbuilding by providing financial assistance in the form of subsidies on the contracted price or fair value of vessels built in India from 2024 to 2034.

Conclusion

The establishment of the Integrated Shipbuilding Cluster at Deendayal Port marks a transformative step in India's shipbuilding industry. By providing long-term leasing opportunities, facilitating regulatory approvals, and aligning with government policies, this initiative is expected to attract major players in the sector. As India moves towards maritime self-reliance, this project will serve as a catalyst for economic growth, employment generation, and technological advancements in ship construction.

For businesses looking to expand in the shipbuilding sector, this tender presents a unique and lucrative opportunity to be part of India’s growing maritime ecosystem.