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National Hydrogen Ship is a hydrogen-powered passenger vessel manufactured using indigenous Indian technology. It was inaugurated on December 11, 2025, by the Union Minister for Ports, Shipping, and Waterways, Sarbananda Sonowal, during a ceremony held at the Namo Ghat in Varanasi, Uttar Pradesh.[1] The vessel will operate for passenger transport between Namo Ghat and Lalita Ghat.[2]
Objectives[edit | edit source]
The primary objectives behind the creation of this ship are to prioritize green energy usage, enhance inter-city connectivity, and provide public convenience while reducing both travel time and costs.
Significance[edit | edit source]
This marks the first time in the country that a hydrogen-powered ship service has been launched. This project not only showcases India's technological advancement but is also an eco-friendly green energy initiative.
Environmental Impact[edit | edit source]
Since it utilizes hydrogen fuel instead of diesel, its only emission is water vapor.
National Vision[edit | edit source]
As an extension of the National Green Hydrogen Mission, it aims to make India a global hub for green hydrogen production by 2030 and reduce carbon emissions in maritime transport.
Waterway Development[edit | edit source]
It highlights the importance of inland waterways in India's overall growth.
Construction and Funding[edit | edit source]
The vessel was constructed at the Cochin Shipyard under the Harit Nauka (Green Boat) initiative of the Inland Waterways Authority of India (IWAI).[3] The total Cost of the project was ₹17.5 crore. The Union Ministry of Ports, Shipping, and Waterways provided 75% of the total cost.[4] Operating boats and ships using hydrogen fuel is part of the Central Government's long-term plan to modernize inland waterway transport.
Key Features of the project[edit | edit source]
- India has become the fifth country in the world—after China, Norway, the Netherlands, and Japan—to operate ships using hydrogen fuel.
- It is a 24-meter long catamaran type vessel.
- It operates on the National Waterway 1 (NW-1) route along the Ganges River.
- A single hydrogen refueling allows the ship to operate for approximately 8 hours.
- The vessel has a seating capacity for 50 passengers.
References[edit | edit source]
- ↑ "India embarks on indigenous green hydrogen shipbuilding mission". Retrieved 4 January 2026.
- ↑ "India's first indigenous hydrogen fuel cell passenger vessel begins commercial operations in Varanasi". ddnews.gov.in. Retrieved 2026-01-04.
- ↑ "PM Modi launches hydrogen-powered ferry: features, significance". The Indian Express. 2024-03-01. Retrieved 2026-01-03.
- ↑ "India's First Indigenous Hydrogen Fuel Cell Passenger Vessel Begins Commercial Service in Varanasi; Sarbananda Sonowal Flags Off Maiden Run Maiden". Retrieved 4 January 2026.