Staff Reporter
Panaji
In a momentous recreation of maritime history, India’s first stitched ship, built using age-old techniques and conventional materials, was formally launched on Wednesday at Hodi Innovation Shipyard in Divar.
Rear Admiral K M Ramakrishnan, VSM, Flag Officer Commanding Karnataka Naval Area (FOK), launched the ship in the presence of senior officers of the Indian Navy.
The vessel pays homage to India’s expertise in shipbuilding. Wood from jackfruit tree, fish oil, coconut fibre, natural resins and cotton among others are some of the traditional materials used in building the 20-metre long and 6.5-metre wide vessel, which will be propelled
by sails.
After setting sail from the Mandovi river, the ship will dock at the Karwar port for a few months before undertaking its first voyage to Oman, tracking the ancient sea routes used by Indian seafarers.
“India’s first solo global circumnavigator Captain Dilip Donde will be mentoring a Navy team that will undertake the ocean voyage,” said Rear Admiral Ramakrishnan.
The ship, which is yet to be named, is a completely designed and made in Goa product, with Hodi Innovations (OPC) Pvt Ltd, a private shipbuilding company, constructing it with the aid of artisans from different states.
Traditional boat maker Babu Shankaran and his artisans from Kerala, who were involved in the construction of the ship, said the project was not easy, as the vessel has been stitched completely without the use of nails or any modern material.
“The ship heralds the initiative to revitalise the nation’s rich maritime legacy. Construction is undertaken by coconut fibre stitching, traditional wooden joinery and natural resins. It stands as a living testament to India’s ancient shipbuilding expertise,” said Prathamesh Dandekar, managing director, Hodi Innovations.
He said the project involved at least 2.5 years of planning, although the keel-laying took place on September 12, 2023. Dandekar thanked the Indian Navy and the government for giving his company the opportunity to build the ship.
The vessel is modelled after a 5th century stitched ship painting in Ajanta Caves. Economist and member of Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s Economic Advisory Council Sanjeev Sanyal envisioned the project.
