Press Releases 2024-25 - Quarter 2

PRESS RELEASE

GRSE, a proud partner of NHIDCL, signs MoU for Supply of Double Lane Modular Bridges

Kolkata, 29 Aug 2024: Garden Reach Shipbuilders and Engineers Ltd., (GRSE), achieved yet another momentous milestone by securing a groundbreaking deal with the National Highway Infrastructure Development Corporation Ltd. (NHIDCL) for the fabrication, supply and launching of Double-Lane Class 70 modular steel & Bailey bridges. The MoU was signed between Dr. Krishan Kumar, IAS, Managing Director, NHIDCL and Cmde PR Hari, IN (Retd.), CMD, GRSE in the august presence of Shri Anshu Manish Khalkho, IDAS, (Director, A&F), NHIDCL and DIG Subrato Ghosh, ICG (Retd.), Director (Personnel), GRSE and other senior officers of GRSE & NHIDCL.

This landmark agreement entails the construction and delivery of Class 70R Double-Lane Bridges, designed exclusively by GRSE, to enhance connectivity in critical forward areas along India's borders, facilitating seamless troop and equipment deployment.

Unparalleled in its innovation, the Double-Lane Steel Bridge developed by GRSE stands as the sole indigenous solution of its kind, in line with India's Aatmanirbhar Bharat Abhiyan. Under similar MoU signed with Border Roads Organization (BRO), GRSE has already supplied 44 nos. Bridges Pan -India. The first bridge of this kind, was constructed at Flaghill, Dokalam, Sikkim at an altitude of 11,000 feet under Project Swastik of the BRO, inaugurated by Hon'ble Defence Minister Shri Rajnath Singh on 28 December 2021.

The bridges have a carriageway width of 7.5 meters, permitting plying of two-way traffic in compliance with specifications laid down by the Ministry of Road Transport and Highways (MORTH). High tensile steel of Grade E-410 ensures high strength, long life and low temperature applications. The galvanized surface finish ensures easier maintenance and longer service life. Load Class IRC 70R permits movement of both Wheeled/ Tracked Vehicles of up to 100 / 70 MT. The modular concept ensures easier transportation of bridge components to remote areas and faster erection of bridges in a short span of 30 to 45 days.

In August 2022, GRSE attained an exclusive distinction by becoming the sole Indian organization qualified for the esteemed Green Channel Certification for Portable Steel Bridges (Bailey Type) from the Indian Army.

Remarkably, GRSE's Portable Steel Bridge Division has pushed the boundaries of innovation through intensive research and development efforts, resulting in the creation of superior versions of portable bridge designs. Over 5,700 portable steel bridges have already been supplied by GRSE to esteemed entities such as the Indian Army, Border Roads Organisation, NHIDCL, State Public Works Departments, and the Central Government. These versatile bridges, originally intended for disaster management, have also garnered international recognition, being exported to friendly nations including Bangladesh, Bhutan, Nepal, Myanmar, and Sri Lanka.

PRESS RELEASE

Two Prestigious Awards for GRSE at the CSR Times Awards 2024

Kolkata, 23 Aug 2024: Garden Reach Shipbuilders & Engineers Ltd. (GRSE), has been honored with two prestigious awards at the CSR Times Awards 2024. GRSE emerged as a winner in the categories of Healthcare and Skill Development, showcasing its unwavering commitment to Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) and community development. The award ceremony was held at the Raj Bhawan, Goa on Friday, 23 Aug 24. The Hon'ble Chief Minister of Goa Shri Pramod Sawant, presented the prestigious Award to CMD, GRSE, Cmde PR Hari, IN(Retd.).

GRSE's recognition in these two categories underscores the company's strategic focus on improving the quality of life for underprivileged sections of society, providing them with access to essential healthcare services and empowering them with the necessary skills to lead productive lives. GRSE's CSR initiatives are aligned with its mission to contribute to the socio-economic development of society and create a positive impact.

The CSR Times Awards is a prestigious recognition platform dedicated to honoring outstanding achievements in Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) across various sectors. Established to celebrate and encourage socially responsible practices among businesses, the awards highlight organizations that have made significant contributions to societal welfare, sustainable development, and community empowerment.

PRESS RELEASE

GRSE celebrates Independence Day with traditional patriotic fervour

Kolkata, 16 Aug 2024: Independence Day was celebrated with traditional patriotic fervour, enthusiasm and panache at Garden Reach Shipbuilders and Engineers (GRSE) Ltd on August 15, 2024. Cmde P R Hari IN (Retd), Chairman and Managing Director, GRSE, hoisted the National Flag before inspecting an impressive guard of honour by the Central Industrial Security Force (CISF). Among the others present were DIG Subrato Ghosh, ICG (Retd), Director (Personnel), Shri Abhishek Ranjan, CVO, GRSE, Shri Pushkar Parashar, Senior Commandant, CISF and senior officials from GRSE & CISF.

Cmde P R Hari appreciated the impressive turnout of the CISF during his address and highlighted the achievements of the shipyard while urging all employees to give their best to ensure GRSE's continuous growth. The CMD also spoke on the importance of the concept of 'Viksit Bharat', the theme of this year's Independence Day.

GRSE has taken a number of initiatives in the lead-up to Independence Day this year. Employees of all units were encouraged to participate in the 'Ek Ped Maa Ke Naam' & "Har Ghar Tiranga" campaign.

During the 'Ek Ped Ma Ke Naam' campaign, employees collected saplings and planted them in the presence of their mothers on Independence Day. Those who have lost their mothers placed a photograph of hers nearby while planting the sapling.

On August 12, National Flags were distributed among 200 underprivileged schoolchildren by GRSE at the CRY Centre in Hastings, Kolkata. A painting competition was also organised and prizes were distributed to the winners.

A day later, on August 13, GRSE planted 2,000 mangrove saplings at the Kaikhali Island under the Kultali Belt Office in the Sundarbans. On August 14, 200 saplings and 100 National Flags were distributed among 100 underprivileged children at Agarhati, Sandeshkhali, in the Sundarbans. During the day, 110 saplings and 55 National Flags were distributed among 55 underprivileged children at Naora in the South 24-Parganas district.

On Independence Day, GRSE also celebrated the flag-hoisting ceremony at Indian Institute of Cerebral Palsy (IICP) and distributed flags to 250 children affected by cerebral palsy.

PRESS RELEASE

Marching Ahead on a Strong Set of Numbers- GRSE Declares Q1 FY25 Results

Kolkata, 08 Aug 2024: Garden Reach Shipbuilders & Engineers Limited (GRSE), one of the leading warship builders in the country has announced its financial results for the first quarter ended June 30th 2024.

Commenting on the results, Cmde Hari PR, IN (Retd) Chairman and Managing Director, Garden Reach Shipbuilders & Engineers Limited said, 'The shipyard is on a growth trajectory and the Q1 FY25 financial results have been very encouraging. Considering our current order book and the project execution plan, I am confident of maintaining this upward trend in the coming years'

PRESS RELEASE

'Bailey Bridges'-The Kolkata Connection

Kolkata, 05 Aug 2024: Very few are aware of the fact that Garden Reach Shipbuilders and Engineers (GRSE) Ltd, Kolkata, a premier warship building company, is also a pioneer in manufacturing of Bailey Type Portable Steel Bridges. GRSE has an Indian market share of over 60% of these modular, easily maintainable and reliable portables bridges. Over 5400 such bridges have been supplied by the company so far, with the Indian Army & Border Roads Organisation (BRO) consuming most of these bridges, mostly for use in the border areas and unfriendly terrains.

The Indian Army extensively uses these bridges for disaster relief operations wherein the specialist Army engineers erect these bridges held in reserve stock. A senior GRSE official stated, "Bailey bridges have been of great assistance in the disaster hit areas and we are proud that our bridges have contributed immensely during these emergent situations. We have also ramped up our production facilities to meet any requirement for more bridges."

PRESS RELEASE

GRSE signs MoU with Medha Servo Drives Pvt Ltd: One more step towards Aatmanirbharta

Kolkata, 30 Jul 2024: In pursuance with its efforts towards developing state-of-the-art indigenous equipment & systems, Garden Reach Shipbuilders and Engineers (GRSE) Ltd signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with Hyderabad-based M/s Medha Servo Drives Pvt Ltd on Tuesday, July 30, 2024, for the joint manufacture of advanced electrical/electronic equipment and systems. Such equipment and systems, to be used both on naval and commercial platforms, will be manufactured under the joint brand name of Medha Servo Drives Pvt Ltd and GRSE.

The MoU aims to synergise the vast experience and expertise of GRSE in shipbuilding and the integration of sophisticated systems on board vessels, and the extensive technological know-how of Medha Servo Drives Pvt Ltd in the field of electrical and electronic equipment. The items covered under the MoU include control and monitoring systems, electrical propulsion systems for marine applications and PGD components.

The MoU was signed by Cmde Rajiv Sreedharan, IN (Retd), CGM (Innovation & New Technology), GRSE and Shri Vishwas Rajendra Moktali, GM (Marketing), Medha Servo Drives Pvt Ltd, in the presence of Cmde PR Hari, IN (Retd), Chairman and Managing Director, GRSE, Shri RK Dash, Director (Finance), GRSE, Cdr Shantanu Bose, IN(Retd), Director (Shipbuilding), GRSE, DIG Subrato Ghosh, ICG (Retd), Director (Personnel), GRSE, and Senior officials of GRSE & Medha Servo Drives Pvt Ltd. This tie-up will be a major boost to the Government of India's Atmanirbharta and 'Make in India' initiatives.

GRSE has already delivered a record 109 warships to India's maritime defence forces. While warship building continues to remain GRSE's mainstay, the company is also a pioneer in the field of portable steel bridges. GRSE has also diversified into fields such as ship repairs and refits and the manufacture of 30 mm Naval Surface Guns (NSGs). The shipyard also designs and builds specialised vessels, both for the domestic and international markets. Recently, GRSE signed a contract with the National Centre for Polar & Ocean Research (NCPOR) for the supply of an Ocean Research Vessel. The shipyard is also building a tug and dredger for Bangladesh and at least four multi-purpose vessels for a German company.

PRESS RELEASE

Empowering Aatmanirbhar Bharat: GRSE signs MoU with Merlinhawk for strategic projects

Kolkata, 22 Jul 2024: In continuance with its efforts towards diversification and developing indigenous solutions to meet the country's defence requirements, Garden Reach Shipbuilders and Engineers (GRSE) Ltd signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with Bengaluru-based Merlinhawk Aerospace Pvt. Ltd. for strategic projects on Friday, July 19, 2024. The MoU was signed by Cdr Shantanu Bose, IN (Retd.), Director (Shipbuilding), GRSE and Shri R Ramachandra Rao, Managing Director, Merlinhawk Aerospace Pvt. Ltd. in the presence of Cmde PR Hari, IN (Retd.), Chairman & Managing Director, GRSE, Shri RK Dash, Director (Finance), GRSE, DIG Subrato Ghosh, ICG (Retd), Director (Personnel), GRSE, Cmde BB Nagpal, IN (Retd), CEO, Merlinhawk, and Senior officials of GRSE & Merlinhawk.

GRSE and Merlinhawk will collaborate in the development of Composite doors and hatches for use on naval ships, Counter UAV solution using Electro-Optical Fire Control System (EOFCS), Electro-Optical Infra-Red Search and Track (EOIRST) System, Composite Masts for Indian Navy ships and Hydrogen fuel cells-based power generation for maritime applications.

While GRSE holds the record of having delivered the largest number (109) of warships to India's maritime defence forces and exported warships to several nations, Merlinhawk provides design and manufacturing support for development of indigenous electronic and electrical components and systems for the armed forces.

This collaboration is a major boost for the country's Atmanirbhar Bharat and 'Make in India' initiatives. GRSE has, for quite some time now, been trying to leverage the technological know-how of Indian companies in the private sector to develop indigenous solutions. Recently, it launched the second edition of the GRSE Accelerated Innovation Nurturing Scheme or GAINS - an open challenge for Start-Ups and MSMEs to develop advanced solutions that would bring about greater efficiency in shipbuilding.

While warship building continues to remain GRSE's mainstay, the company is also a pioneer in the field of portable steel bridges. GRSE has also diversified into fields such as ship repairs and refits and the manufacture of 30 mm Naval Surface Guns (NSGs). The shipyard also designs and builds specialised vessels both for the domestic and international markets. Recently, GRSE signed a contract with the National Centre for Polar & Ocean Research (NCPOR) for the supply of an Ocean Research Vessel. The shipyard is also building a tug and dredger for Bangladesh and at least four multi-purpose vessels for a German company.

PRESS RELEASE

Big Boost to 'Aatmanirbhar Bharat': GRSE Signs Rs 840 Cr Deal with NCPOR for Ocean Research Vessel

Kolkata, 16 Jul 2024: In yet another remarkable achievement, Garden Reach Shipbuilders and Engineers (GRSE) Ltd signed a contract with National Centre for Polar & Ocean Research (NCPOR), Ministry of Earth Sciences, Government of India, on Tuesday, July 16, 2024, for the construction and delivery of an Ocean Research Vessel (ORV). The contract was signed in Goa by Cdr Shantanu Bose, IN (Retd), Director (Shipbuilding), GRSE, and Shri M M Subramaniam, Scientist I/C, Vessel Operation and Management, NCPOR, in the presence of Dr Thamban Meloth, Director, NCPOR and senior officials from GRSE & NCPOR.

GRSE has necessary expertise in the field of survey vessels and has been building them for the Indian Navy for nearly four decades now. Even now, the Marine Acoustic Research Vessel INS Sagardhwani that was built by GRSE in 1994 is being refitted at the shipyard. On December 4, 2023, GRSE delivered the INS Sandhayak - the largest survey vessel to be built in India - to the Navy. Three more vessels of this class are at various stages of completion at the shipyard at the moment. This experience will stand GRSE good when designing and building the ORV for NCPOR.

The overall length of the ORV will be 89.50-metres and it will be 18.80-metres wide. Its depth will be 12.50-metres. The ship will have a gross tonnage of 5,900 Tons and its speed will be 14 knots at 90% maximum continuous rating (MCR). The research vessel will be able to operate at a maximum depth of 6,000-metres.

The vessel, once it is delivered, will be capable of Underway Swath Multibeam as well as Geophysical Seismic surveys in coastal seas and deep waters. She will also be able to carry out Conductivity, Temperature and Depth (CTD) profiling and water sampling operations such as biological sampling using vertical and horizontal methods through various nets.

The ORV will also effectively carry out surface and deep-sea mooring and data buoy operations, seabed sampling using corers and grabs as well as rock dredging with chain bag dredges. She will also undertake underway atmospheric observations, surface meteorological and current measurements and collect upper air data. She will also be able to deploy and retrieve heavy test/protocol-type equipment and submersibles such as AUVs and ROVs. Scientists will be able to carry out analytical work and data processing on board. The ship will also provide training and education to scientists and technicians.

GRSE is fast turning into a destination for those in search of specialized vessels. Recently, the Government of Bangladesh signed an agreement with the shipyard for an advanced tug for the Bangladesh Navy. GRSE is also building a dredger for the Government of Bangladesh and at least four multi-purpose cargo vessels for a German company, apart from 18 warships for the Indian Navy.

PRESS RELEASE

Empowering Indian Startups to Contribute Towards 'Aatmanirbharta': Raksha Rajya Mantri Launches GRSE-initiated GAINS-2024

Kolkata, 10 Jul 2024: After the resounding success of its maiden venture to promote development of technology in the field of shipbuilding, Garden Reach Shipbuilders and Engineers (GRSE) Ltd, launched the second edition of GRSE Accelerated Innovation Nurturing Scheme (GAINS) in Kolkata on Wednesday, July 10, 2024. GAINS-2024 was launched by the Hon'ble Raksha Rajya Mantri, Shri Sanjay Seth.

Key dignitaries present on the occasion were Cmde PR Hari, IN (Retd), Chairman and Managing Director, GRSE, Shri RK Dash, Director (Finance), GRSE, Cdr Shantanu Bose, IN (Retd), Director (Shipbuilding), GRSE, DIG Subrato Ghosh, ICG (Retd), Director (Personnel), GRSE, Shri Sanjay Dattatraya Panse, Independent Director, GRSE, Shri Sanjeeb Mohanty, Independent Director, GRSE, Shri Abhishek Ranjan, IOFS, Chief Vigilance Officer, GRSE, Emeritus Professor (Dr) O.P. Sha, Department of Ocean Engineering & Naval Architecture, IIT Kharagpur, senior officials from GRSE and representatives from Indian startups.

'GAINS' is a unique national open challenge to encourage and enable MSMEs and Start-Ups to develop innovative solutions that GRSE may incorporate for further technological advancement. This initiative is in keeping with the 'Make in India' and 'Start-up India' policies of the Government of India. The aim is to leverage the vast eco-system of MSMEs and Start-Ups to address present and emerging challenges in the ship design and construction industry, while achieving the objectives of Atmanirbharta.

In 2023, the open challenge attracted participation from across the country. Of the proposals received after Stage-I, six were selected for detailed evaluation in Stage-II. The six innovators who made it to this stage were paid up to Rs 5 lakh to meet their expenses in preparing detailed project reports. These reports and presentations by the participants went through further evaluation and finally, two companies were declared winners.

While one of them, an MSME, is working on AI-based Material Code Generation and Management Systems, the second, a Start-Up, is developing robots for exterior painting of ships. They have been assured adequate funds by GRSE to create workable models.

This success was the reason behind GRSE's decision to go in for GAINS-2024. The number of contestants is expected to go up this year. As in GAINS-2023, the participants of GAINS-2024 will have to concentrate on the themes - Artificial Intelligence (AI), Renewable/Green Energy & Energy Efficiency as well as Overall Efficiency Enhancement. GAINS is aimed towards the creation of fast-track innovative solutions to help GRSE turn into a future-ready shipyard.

Shri Sanjay Seth, Hon'ble Raksha Rajya Mantri, commended GRSE's efforts towards technological advancement and said and that this special day not only marks the innovative efforts made by GRSE in the development and security of our Nation's Maritime strength but also celebrates the launch of the second edition of GRSE Accelerated Innovation Nurturing Scheme. This initiative taken by GRSE under Make In India & Startup India is truly commendable.

He also stated that as Indians, we are proud that India is establishing itself as a world-class defence industry and reaching new heights of self-reliance.Cmde PR Hari, IN (Retd), Chairman and Managing Director, GRSE, said: "New Technology adoption is a key focus area of the shipyard and I am confident that GAINS 2024 shall be a major contributor towards this. I wish the brilliant Indian start-ups the very best in making the Nation building initiatives a huge success."

PRESS RELEASE

BOOSTING DEFENCE EXPORTS - GRSE TO BUILD ADVANCED OCEAN GOING TUG FOR BANGLADESH NAVY

Kolkata, 01 Jul 2024: Keeping up the tempo in the arena of Defence Exports, Garden Reach Shipbuilders and Engineers (GRSE) Ltd signed an agreement with the Directorate General, Defence Purchase, Ministry of Defence, Government of the People's Republic of Bangladesh on Sunday (June 30, 2024), for the construction of an advanced Ocean-Going Tug. A few weeks ago, GRSE had signed another contract with Bangladesh for delivery of a Trailing Suction Hopper (TSH) dredger. More recently, on June 22, 2024, GRSE entered into a contract with a German company for the delivery of at least four multi-purpose cargo vessels.

The overall length (LOA) of the tug will be nearly 61 metres, and the vessel will be about 15.80 metres wide with a depth nearly 6.80 metres. The tug's draught requirement with a full load will be around 4.80 metres while it's bollard pull capacity will be 76 Tons ahead and 50 Tons astern. The ship's maximum speed with a full load will be at least 13 knots.

While Cdr Shantanu Bose, IN (Retd), Director (Shipbuilding), GRSE, was present during the signing of the agreement, Cmde A K M Maruf Hassan, Director Purchase (Navy), Directorate General Defence Purchase, Ministry of Defence was present on behalf of the Government of the People's Republic of Bangladesh. Among the others present were the officials from GRSE and Ministry of Defence, Govt of Bangladesh.

The tug's primary roles will include towing of ships at sea, both alongside and astern, assist them during berthing and casting off as well as help them in turning through pushing and pulling. The vessel will also have the capability to carry out rescue and salvage operations at sea. It's secondary roles will be to provide firefighting support to ships at sea and limited pollution control measures. The platform will be extremely robust with a capability to operate even at sea state 5 (wind speeds of 17-21 knots and wave heights of 2-3 metres) with dynamic positioning - 2 system capability. This is an advanced computer-controlled system that allows a ship to maintain its heading and position without the use of mooring lines or anchors.