India’s first ‘ancient stitched ship’ was officially launched on Wednesday, at Hodi Innovations shipyard on Divar island. The launch ceremony was graced by senior officers of the Indian Navy, which included Rear Admiral, KM Ramakrishnan, VSM, Flag Officer Commanding Karnataka Naval Area (FOK).
The ship has been completely designed and built in Goa by the Hodi Innovation (OPC) Pvt Ltd with the help of expert artisans from across India.
Prathamesh Dandekar, Managing Director of Hodi Innovations, in his welcome address said, “This launch heralds the initiative to revitalize the nation’s rich maritime legacy. The ship, constructed using coconut fiber stitching, traditional wooden joinery, and natural resins, stands as a living testament to India’s ancient shipbuilding expertise.” Dandekar applauded the work of the artisans who worked on the ship and thanked the Indian Navy and the Indian government for giving his company the opportunity to build the ship.
Rear Admiral, KM Ramakrishnan, the chief guest in his speech said, “Stitched ships illustrate India’s ancient ship faring tradition. Babu Shankaran and his artisans from Kerala need to be applauded for their unparalled skill and dedication.” The Rear Admiral said that the ship would be docked at the Karwar port and Captain Dilip Donde, India’s first solo, global circumnavigator would mentor a Navy team that would undertake ocean voyages on this ship. “Captain Donde’s expertise is invaluable,” the Rear Admiral said.
This project, envisioned by renowned writer, economist, and historian Sanjeev Sanyal, is being executed through a tripartite agreement between Hodi Innovations (OPC) Pvt Ltd, Indian Navy and the Ministry of Culture.
For information about Hodi Innovations, visit www.hodiinnovations.com
