India Receives Third Very Large Gas Carrier, Shivalik
Key Points
India has welcomed its third Very Large Gas Carrier (VLGC), Shivalik, at Visakhapatnam Port, marking a significant step towards maritime self-reliance and energy security. This development is crucial for UPSC aspirants, particularly for GS Paper 3, which covers economic development and infrastructure. Last Updated: 2025-10-08
Key Facts About Shivalik
- Shivalik is India's third Very Large Gas Carrier (VLGC).
- Inducted at Visakhapatnam Port.
- Enhances Atmanirbharata (self-reliance) in shipping.
- Measures 225 meters in length.
- Has a capacity of 82,000 cubic meters (CBM).
- Designed for transporting liquefied petroleum gas (LPG).
- Equipped with segregated tanks and advanced temperature control.
- Constructed under the Indian flag in South Korea.
- Reduces reliance on foreign-flagged vessels.
- Strengthens energy security and connectivity with the Arabian Gulf.
- Part of India's goal to become a top-five maritime nation by 2047.
- Aims to establish an end-to-end maritime ecosystem.
- Includes building, owning, repairing, and recycling ships.
- Policies like SBFAS and MDF promote local shipbuilding.
- Strategic developments enhance India's maritime capabilities.
- Strengthens India's position in the global maritime sector.
India's Maritime Self-Reliance and Energy Security
The induction of Shivalik into India's fleet signifies a macro-level advancement in the country's maritime and energy sectors. This aligns with India's strategic goals of enhancing economic growth and achieving energy security. By reducing dependency on foreign-flagged vessels, India is bolstering its shipping industry, which is crucial for maintaining a robust trade network. The growth in India's shipping capabilities is a step towards becoming a top-five maritime nation by 2047, comparable to leading global maritime powers.
Related Government Schemes/Policies
- SBFAS: Supports local shipbuilding through financial assistance.
- MDF: Maritime Development Fund aimed at enhancing maritime infrastructure.
UPSC Relevance
- GS Paper 3: Economic Development, Infrastructure - Energy, Ports, Roads, Airports, Railways, etc.
- Prelims Angle: Questions on India's maritime capabilities, VLGC specifications, and related policies.
- Mains Angle: Analytical themes on India's energy security, maritime self-reliance, and economic growth strategies.
- Essay Paper: Topics on self-reliance and strategic economic growth.
FAQ Section
- What is Shivalik?
Shivalik is India's third Very Large Gas Carrier (VLGC), designed to transport liquefied petroleum gas (LPG) with a capacity of 82,000 CBM. - Why is Shivalik important?
Shivalik enhances India's maritime self-reliance and energy security by reducing dependency on foreign-flagged vessels and strengthening trade connectivity. - What are the key features of Shivalik?
Shivalik measures 225 meters in length, has segregated tanks, advanced temperature control, and is constructed under the Indian flag in South Korea.
Detailed Coverage
- Shivalik is India's third Very Large Gas Carrier (VLGC).
- Inducted at Visakhapatnam Port.
- Enhances Atmanirbharata (self-reliance) in shipping.
- Measures 225 meters in length.
- Has a capacity of 82,000 cubic meters (CBM).
- Designed for transporting liquefied petroleum gas (LPG).
- Equipped with segregated tanks and advanced temperature control.
- Constructed under the Indian flag in South Korea.
- Reduces reliance on foreign-flagged vessels.
- Strengthens energy security and connectivity with the Arabian Gulf.
- Part of India's goal to become a top-five maritime nation by 2047.
- Aims to establish an end-to-end maritime ecosystem.
- Includes building, owning, repairing, and recycling ships.
- Policies like SBFAS and MDF promote local shipbuilding.
- Strategic developments enhance India's maritime capabilities.
- Strengthens India's position in the global maritime sector.