GRSE launches second edition of GAINS to propel technological innovation in shipbuilding

Garden Reach Shipbuilders and Engineers (GRSE) Ltd has officially launched the second edition of the GRSE Accelerated Innovation Nurturing Scheme (GAINS) in a ceremony held in Kolkata. The event was inaugurated by the Hon’ble Union Minister of State for Defence, Shri Sanjay Seth, who commended GRSE's dedication to advancing technology in shipbuilding.

The GAINS-2024 launch saw the presence of several notable dignitaries, including Cmde PR Hari, IN (Retd), Chairman and Managing Director of GRSE, Shri RK Dash, Director (Finance), GRSE, Cdr Shantanu Bose, IN (Retd), Director (Shipbuilding), GRSE, DIG Subrato Ghosh, ICG (Retd), Director (Personnel), GRSE, and several independent directors and senior officials from GRSE. The ceremony also hosted representatives from Indian startups and MSMEs.

GAINS is a national open challenge designed to encourage and enable MSMEs and startups to develop innovative solutions that GRSE can incorporate for technological advancement. This initiative aligns with the Government of India's 'Make in India' and 'Start-up India' policies, aiming to leverage the ecosystem of MSMEs and startups to address current and emerging challenges in ship design and construction while achieving the objectives of self-reliance (Atmanirbharta).

Reflecting on the success of GAINS-2023, the previous edition witnessed wide participation from across the country. After the first stage of proposal evaluations, six entries were selected for detailed evaluation in Stage II. These innovators received up to Rs 5 lakh each to cover their expenses in preparing detailed project reports. Following further evaluation, two companies were declared winners. One MSME is developing an AI-based Material Code Generation and Management System, while a startup is working on robots for exterior ship painting. Both companies received funding from GRSE to develop their projects.

Encouraged by the success of GAINS-2023, GRSE expects even greater participation in GAINS-2024. Participants will focus on themes such as Artificial Intelligence (AI), Renewable/Green Energy & Energy Efficiency, and Overall Efficiency Enhancement. The aim is to generate fast-track innovative solutions to help GRSE transform into a future-ready shipyard.

During the launch event, Shri Sanjay Seth praised GRSE's initiatives and emphasized the importance of technological advancement in enhancing India's maritime strength and self-reliance. He lauded the scheme's alignment with the 'Make in India' and 'Start-up India' initiatives and expressed pride in India's growing defense industry.

Cmde PR Hari, IN (Retd), highlighted the importance of adopting new technology in the shipyard. He expressed confidence that GAINS-2024 would significantly contribute to this goal and wished the participating startups success in their endeavors.

With the launch of GAINS-2024, GRSE continues to solidify its commitment to fostering innovation and technological progress in India's shipbuilding industry, paving the way for a more advanced and self-reliant maritime future.