Imagine your company supplying high-tech equipment for India’s next-generation warships or managing a dockyard project that supports the country’s maritime ambitions. With billions pouring into Indian shipbuilding and repair, tender opportunities at Goa Shipyard Limited (GSL,Hindustan Shipyard Limited (HSL, andMazagon Dock Shipbuilders Limited (MDL have never been more lucrative—or more competitive

India’s Shipbuilding Surge: Why Now Is the Time

India’s shipbuilding industry is on an unprecedented growth trajectory. The sector, valued at USD 90 million in 2022, is projected to skyrocket to USD 8.1 billion by 2033, reflecting a staggering CAGR of 60%. This boom is fueled by government support, strategic location, and a renewed push for “Make in India.” Major public sector players like GSL, HSL, and MDL are at the forefront, issuing hundreds of tenders for everything from hull fabrication to advanced electronics and green technology.

What Types of Tenders Are Available?

The scope of tenders in Indian shipyards is vast and growing:

• Construction & Repair: Hull fabrication, welding, outfitting, and dry-docking for naval and commercial vessels.
• Equipment Supply: HVAC systems, cranes, propulsion units, marine electronics, and safety gear.
• Services: Maintenance, calibration, logistics, and technical consultancy.
• Green Initiatives: Hybrid propulsion, electric vessels, and eco-friendly tugboats under the Green Tug Transition Programme.
• Infrastructure: Upgradation of docks, workshops, and support facilities.

For example, recent tenders at Mazagon Dock include supply of main control consoles, HVAC system upgrades, and fabrication contracts for multi-purpose dry cargo ships.

The Policy Push: Right of First Refusal and Local Content

To promote indigenous shipbuilding, the government has implemented a Right of First Refusal (RoFR) policy. Indian shipyards get the first opportunity to match the lowest foreign bid in government tenders for vessel acquisition, boosting local participation. Additionally, ships valued under ₹200 crore must be procured from Indian shipyards, and public procurement policies require a minimum local content threshold.

Major Players: GSL, HSL, and Mazagon Dock

• Goa Shipyard Limited (GSL): Leader in advanced patrol vessels, with tenders for crane hiring, hull outfitting, and welding. Investing heavily in green technology and infrastructure upgrades.
• Hindustan Shipyard Limited (HSL): Based in Visakhapatnam, handles major overhauls, fleet support ships, and complex repairs. Current tenders include HVAC supply, galley equipment overhaul, and battery charger servicing.
• Mazagon Dock Shipbuilders Limited (MDL): India’s premier warship builder, executing contracts for submarines, frigates, and auxiliary ships. Live tenders range from ceremonial ship items to large-scale engineering upgrades and fabrication.

The Numbers: Market Size and Pipeline

• Order Book Boom: State-run shipbuilders expected to triple order volume by FY27, with the Defence Acquisition Council approving ₹8.45 lakh crore in orders between FY22 and FY25.
• Mazagon Dock’s Pipeline: Contracts worth ₹2.12 lakh crore expected by FY27, including the P75I submarine program and next-gen corvettes.
• Over 372 shipbuilding tenders published in India in 2025.
• Government Subsidies: Flat 30% financial assistance for green-fuel vessels and 20% for electric/hybrid ships under the Shipbuilding Financial Assistance Policy.

How to Bid: Steps to Success

1. Monitor Live Tenders: Use National Tenders for daily updates on GSL, HSL, and MDL tenders.
2. Register on E-Procurement Portals: Each shipyard has its own portal; ensure you’re registered and compliant.
3. Prepare Meticulous Documentation: Include technical specs, financials, certifications (ISO, MSME, NSIC), and proof of local content.
4. Attend Pre-Bid Meetings: Clarify doubts, understand scope, and network with officials and competitors.
5. Highlight Green and Indigenous Solutions: Emphasize compliance with RoFR and Make in India policies.
6. Submit Competitive, Compliant Bids: Ensure your bid is complete, error-free, and submitted before the deadline.

Common Pitfalls and How to Avoid Them

• Incomplete documentation leads to rejection.
• Ignoring RoFR and local content requirements disqualifies bids.
• Late submission is strictly enforced.
• Underestimating technical complexity causes bid failure.

How National Tenders Can Help You Win

• Live Listings: Access the latest shipyard and dockyard tenders across India, updated daily.
• Expert Guidance: Get support with compliance, documentation, and bid strategy.
• Custom Alerts: Receive notifications for tenders matching your business profile.
• Success Stories: Learn from companies who have won and delivered major shipyard projects.

Conclusion: Set Sail for Success

With government investment, policy support, and a booming order book, Indian shipyards like GSL, HSL, and Mazagon Dock are opening doors to unprecedented tender opportunities. By preparing strategically, emphasizing local content, and leveraging expert support from National Tenders, your business can chart a course for long-term growth in India’s maritime future.

Ready to bid for your next shipyard tender? Start your journey with National Tenders today and unlock the full potential of India’s maritime industry!