Traditional Skills, Modern Boats: Shipbuilding Drives Livelihoods in Gir Somnath
Apr 24, 2026
Along the coast of Gir Somnath, Gujarat’s shipbuilding sector is evolving under the blue economy push, combining traditional skills with modern technology. Wooden boats, once handcrafted over months, are gradually being replaced by fibre-reinforced vessels that offer improved durability and safety. Government support through subsidies on boats, engines, and GPS systems is easing the financial burden on fishermen and artisans. While production has become faster and more efficient, the industry still relies on generations of skilled craftsmen. This transition is not only modernizing the sector but also enhancing safety, creating jobs, boosting fisheries, and strengthening coastal livelihoods—positioning Gujarat as a key hub in India’s growing blue economy.
