Dredging Corporation of India Limited@50: ₹3,000cr Growth Plan Unveiled
Dredging Corporation of India Limited (DCI) on Sunday celebrated its golden jubilee. The milestone marks 50 years of contribution to India’s maritime and port infrastructure.
Established on March 29, 1976, as a Central Public Sector Enterprise, DCI has played a key role in maintaining navigable waterways. As a result, cargo movement has become smoother and port efficiency has improved across the country.
From a modest beginning with revenues of around ₹200 crore, the corporation has grown steadily. Today, it is a major maritime player with a turnover of ₹1,148 crore in the last financial year. Moreover, it has expanded its technical capabilities, fleet strength, and operational reach.
Currently, DCI handles nearly 80 per cent of the country’s maintenance dredging operations. In fact, it manages about 120 million cubic metres out of the 150 million cubic metres dredged annually. Its services cover major ports, including Visakhapatnam Port, Haldia Port, Paradip Port, and Jawaharlal Nehru Port Authority.
According to officials, DCI’s work helps maintain optimal draft levels at key ports. Consequently, large cargo vessels can move without disruption, supporting rising trade volumes.
Meanwhile, the golden jubilee celebrations drew praise from national leadership. Union Minister for Ports, Shipping and Waterways Sarbananda Sonowal lauded DCI’s performance. He also highlighted its role in strengthening maritime logistics and promoting the blue economy.
Similarly, Minister of State Shantanu Thakur described the corporation as a “lighthouse” guiding India’s maritime future. He further emphasised its technical strength and strategic importance.
Looking ahead, DCI has outlined an ambitious roadmap. It aims to achieve ₹3,000 crore growth over the next five to ten years. To achieve this, the corporation is focusing on fleet modernisation and adopting advanced dredging technologies.
In addition, DCI is diversifying into specialised offshore segments. These include submarine cable trenching and offshore wind energy support. This move aligns with emerging opportunities in the maritime and energy sectors.
Overall, officials said DCI aims to become a global dredging player. At the same time, it will continue to support India’s port-led development strategy.