In a landmark achievement for Indian shipbuilding and the Atma Nirbhar Bharat initiative, Udupi Cochin Shipyard Limited (UCSL), a subsidiary of Cochin Shipyard Limited (CSL), has delivered the first of six next-generation green cargo vessels to Norway-based Wilson Ship Management AS, Europe’s largest short-sea shipping operator. The 3,800 DWT vessel, named Wilson Eco 1, was handed over during a ceremony at New Mangalore Port. The delivery is part of a Rs 5.06 billion project supported by Norway’s green maritime funding programme, marking India's entry into the European eco-friendly cargo market. Following the initial contract, Wilson Ship Management placed an additional order with UCSL for eight 6,300 DWT cargo vessels, valued at Rs 10.41 billion, strengthening the Indo-Norwegian strategic partnership. Designed by Dutch firm Conoship International, Wilson Eco 1 features a diesel-electric propulsion system and is ready for future upgrades including wind-foil units and hybrid battery systems. With a length of 89.43 metres, beam of 13.2 metres, and cruising speed of 10.5 knots on just 750 kW of power, the vessel is classed by Bureau Veritas and sails under the Norwegian flag. The project generated over 800 direct jobs and involved a wide network of Indian MSMEs. UCSL also collaborated with national skill development agencies to train 100–150 workers in advanced diesel-electric marine systems, building domestic capacity for high-end maritime exports. (hansindia)