India’s First Indigenous Hydrogen Fuel Cell Vessel | 11 Dec 2025

Why in News? 

Union Minister Sarbananda Sonowal flagged off India’s first indigenous hydrogen fuel-cell vessel in Varanasi, marking a milestone in the country’s transition to sustainable inland water transport. 

India’s First Indigenous Hydrogen Fuel Cell Vessel

  • Key Points 
  • Technological Milestone: The vessel's launch reflects India’s growing technological capabilities and commitment to clean energy, positioning the country alongside nations like China, Japan, and Norway in adopting hydrogen-powered vessels. 
  • Sustainable Energy: Hydrogen-powered vessels are a step towards reducing greenhouse gas emissions, offering clean, sustainable energy with near-zero emissions, though full-scale commercial adoption is still under research. 
  • Varanasi’s Role: The launch at Namo Ghat places Varanasi at the forefront of India’s green waterways initiative, enhancing both the transportation experience for visitors and pilgrims and contributing to environmental sustainability. 
  • PM Modi's Vision: The hydrogen vessel initiative is part of India's broader strategy under Prime Minister Modi's leadership to modernize inland waterways, prioritize clean transport, and enhance connectivity and public convenience. 
  • Maritime India Vision 2030: The project aligns with the Maritime India Vision 2030 and the Maritime Amrit Kaal Vision 2047, which emphasize greener transport, smart infrastructure, and alternative fuels on inland waterways. 
  • Economic Impact: The hydrogen vessel and associated projects aim to boost India’s economic potential by strengthening sustainable infrastructure, reducing logistics costs, and fostering green transport solutions. 
  • Other Development Projects: Over Rs 300 crore has been invested in Uttar Pradesh’s waterway development, with plans to launch schemes worth Rs 2,200 crore in the coming years, including the modern navigation corridor from Haldia to Varanasi.