Defence Ministry seals ₹498.58 crore contract to refit and re-power INS Betwa
GS3Economy · S&T · Environment · Security· Defence technology· Prelims·
Defence modernization and MSME integration: a GS3 case study on Aatmanirbhar Bharat in maritime security.
Why in news
The Defence Ministry awarded a ₹498.58 crore contract to Cochin Shipyard Limited to refit and re-power the INS Betwa with a diesel engine-based system.
Background
The contract, sealed on November 11, 2026, involves replacing the INS Betwa's steam-based propulsion with a diesel engine-based system and a modern weapon suite. The project aims to strengthen indigenous repair capabilities and involves more than 50 MSMEs.
Facts for Prelims
- FactContract value for INS Betwa refitting is ₹498.58 crore.
- S&TINS Betwa is being transitioned from steam-based propulsion to a diesel engine-based system.
- BodyCochin Shipyard Limited is theentity awarded the contract for the refitting project.
- FactThe project involves the participation of more than 50 MSMEs.
Prelims practice question
Which propulsion system is being installed to replace the steam-based system in the INS Betwa refitting project?
- (a)Electric-motor system
- (b)Gas turbine-based system
- (c)Diesel engine-based system
- (d)Nuclear-powered system
Show answer
Answer: (c) Diesel engine-based system — The contract involves replacing the INS Betwa's steam-based propulsion with a diesel engine-based system.
For Mains
Q. Discuss the significance of indigenous ship repair and modernization in strengthening India's maritime security and promoting the 'Aatmanirbhar Bharat' initiative in the defence sector.
Dimensions to cover in your answer
- Industrial synergy: Integration of MSMEs into the high-tech defence manufacturing supply chain
- Technological transition: Shift from steam to diesel propulsion for enhanced operational efficiency
- Strategic autonomy: Reducing reliance on foreign shipyards for critical naval vessel maintenance
Keywords: Aatmanirbhar Bharat · Indigenous manufacturing · Maritime security · MSME integration · Defence modernization
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