Varanasi 

Union Minister Sarbananda Sonowal on Thursday flagged off India’s first indigenously developed hydrogen fuel-cell vessel in Varanasi, marking a significant step in the country’s transition towards clean and sustainable inland water transport.

The vessel, launched at a ceremony at Namo Ghat, formally began commercial operations following the inauguration by the Ports, Shipping and Waterways Minister.

Sonowal said the hydrogen-powered vessel showcased India’s strengthening technological capabilities and its commitment to green energy. “This is not just technological progress, but a sign that we are advancing confidently towards sustainable energy and indigenous solutions,” he said.

He noted that with the launch, India joins a select group of countries — including China, Norway, the Netherlands and Japan — that operate hydrogen-powered vessels.
“This proves that our technical capabilities are future-ready. This achievement has been possible due to the Prime Minister’s visionary leadership. The pace and approach with which every sector is advancing has ensured that inland waterways now play a vital role in India’s development journey,” Sonowal said in Varanasi, Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s parliamentary constituency.

Uttar Pradesh Minister of State for Transport (Independent Charge) Dayashankar Singh, Minister of State for Ayush, Food Safety and Drug Administration (Independent Charge) Dayashankar Mishra, and Minister of State for Stamp and Court Fees and Registration (Independent Charge) Ravindra Jaiswal were among those present.

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According to an official statement, the initiative is part of the ongoing modernisation of India’s inland waterways, driven by Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s focus on clean transport, better connectivity and enhanced public convenience.