Goa Shipyard Limited Celebrated Independence Day

Goa Khabar : Goa Shipyard Limited (GSL) proudly celebrated India’s 78th Independence Day with great enthusiasm and patriotic fervor at its premises in Vasco da Gama, Goa. The event was marked by the hoisting of the national flag, a solemn salute, and a gathering of GSL employees, CISF, their families, and dignitaries.

The celebrations commenced with the hoisting of the Tri color by GSL’s Chairman and Managing Director, Mr. Brajesh Kumar Upadhyay, who also inspected the Guard of Honor presented by the CISF.  Mr. Upadhyay addressed the gathering, reflecting on India’s journey since independence and the significant role that GSL has played in strengthening the nation’s maritime defense capabilities.

In his speech, Mr. Upadhyay emphasized the importance of this year’s theme, “Viksit Bharat” (Developed India), which aligns with Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s vision of transforming India into a developed nation by 2047. He highlighted how GSL is contributing to this vision through its continuous efforts in indigenization, innovation, and technological advancement in shipbuilding.

Mr. Upadhyay spoke about GSL’s commitment to the “Atmanirbhar Bharat” (Self-Reliant India) initiative, underscoring the shipyard’s achievements in indigenously designing and building advanced warships, patrol vessels, and other maritime assets. He assured that GSL will continue to innovate and enhance its capabilities to meet the future needs of the Indian Navy and Coast Guard, thereby contributing to a “Viksit Bharat.”

The CMD also touched upon GSL’s ongoing efforts to integrate sustainable practices in its operations, aiming to reduce the environmental footprint of its shipbuilding activities. He reaffirmed GSL’s dedication to growth that is not only economically viable but also environmentally responsible, aligning with the broader goals of a developed and sustainable India.

Mr. Upadhyay congratulating Team GSL on the successful launching of first frigate of the series of P11356 program. This has been the biggest ship ever built by GSL, and with this, GSL has joined the league of very few shipyards in the country of having expertise in building the most sophisticated and complex front-line warships. When I look at the ship now, it appears majestic, which certainly has boosted my confidence and reassured our customer, Indian Navy of GSL’s commitment.

We have an unprecedented order book waiting to be executed in the next 5-6 years. 21 platforms under execution at any point in time is a first for GSL and the task ahead is not going to be easy. As on date our order book is almost over Rs18000 Cr and considering the RFPs in pipeline from the Indian Navy and Coast Guard, when I stand before you all for next year’s Independence Day Celebrations, I am hopeful that GSL’s order book will cross over Rs 30000 Cr. Another significant achievement in the Export domain has been the signing of contract with a Luxemburg based company for construction of a New Generation Hopper Dredger. This project signifies our entry into the foreign commercial vessel market which is highly competitive at the same time challenging to execute. This type of Dredger is being constructed for the first time in GSL.

In a special initiative that aligns with GSL commitment to environmental sustainability, Mr. Upadhyay announced the launch of the Ek Ped Maa Ke Naam campaign. This initiative encourages employees to plant a tree in honor of their mothers, symbolizing the nurturing and protective role that mothers play, much like trees in our ecosystem. This program not only aims to increase green cover but also strengthens the emotional bond between employees and their roots, reinforcing the importance of environmental stewardship as part of a developed India.

Mr. Upadhyay also spoke about GSL active participation in the Har Ghar Tiranga campaign, a government initiative to instill a deep sense of patriotism among citizens by encouraging them to hoist the national flag at their homes. GSL distributed Tricolors to all employees, promoting this movement within the community and emphasizing the significance of the national flag as a symbol of unity and pride. Employees and their families participated enthusiastically, showcasing their commitment to this national cause.

Mr. Upadhyay acknowledged the hard work and dedication of GSL’s employees, stating that their contributions are the backbone of the organization’s success. He also emphasized the importance of community engagement and social responsibility, urging employees to continue their involvement in initiatives that support the well-being of local communities and contribute to the national mission of a drug-free India under the “Nasha Mukt Bharat Abhiyan.”

As part of the celebrations, outstanding employees were felicitated with ‘Commendation Awards’ and ‘Special Commendation Awards’ for exemplary work in their respective areas. The event also included cultural performances by the employees’ children, showcasing the rich cultural heritage of India and the spirit of unity and diversity.