The Department of Expenditure (DoE) has recently provided in-principle approval for the revised cost estimate of ₹2329.40 Crores for acquisition of a Polar Research Vessel (PRV) to support India's polar expeditions and research activities. The timeline for acquisition of PRV is 2025-26 to 2029-30. The tender floated earlier was cancelled as the identified shipbuilder sought changes to the agreed contractual terms that were not acceptable. A revised cost estimate of the PRV was carried out through Indian Maritime University (IMU), a Central University under Ministry of Shipping. Thereafter, Ministry of Earth Sciences (MoES) constituted a Revised Cost Committee (RCC) in 2024 to examine and assess the cost reasonableness of enhanced estimates and to recommend the Revised Cost Estimates. The RCC assessed and endorsed a total project cost of ₹2329.40 crore.

The expeditions to the Antarctica including logistical support and associated scientific research have been continuing uninterrupted through the use of annually chartered ice-class vessels.

As per the current proposal, the revised timeline is 2025-26 to 2029-30. The concept design and specifications are already completed. The Project Monitoring and Coordination Committee (PMCC) with experts from across the country provides guidance, ensuring alignment among technical, financial and administrative aspects for completion of the project on time.

This information was given by Dr. Jitendra Singh, Union Minister of State (Independent Charge) for Science and Technology, Earth Sciences, MoS PMO, MoS Personnel, Public Grievances & Pensions, Department of Atomic Energy and Department of Space, in a written reply in the Rajya Sabha today.

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NKR/PSM/AV

(Release ID: 2153574)