India’s maritime sector is experiencing a golden era, transforming the nation’s 12 major government-owned ports and approximately 217 minor and intermediate ports into engines of economic growth and global trade. Under the visionary leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, India’s ports have been transformed through strategic reforms, substantial investments, and innovative policies, significantly enhancing trade, connectivity, and advancing port-led development. From doubling cargo handling capacity to slashing turnaround times, India’s ports are not just facilitating commerce—they are shaping the nation’s future as a global maritime leader.

A Surge in Capacity and Efficiency

Over the past decade, India’s ports have undergone a remarkable transformation. The cargo handling capacity of Indian ports has doubled, soaring from 1,400 million metric tonnes per annum (MMTPA) in 2013-14 to 2,762 MMTPA in 2024-25—a 92% increase for major ports and an 80% rise for non-major ports. Total cargo throughput has surged 1.6 times, from 972 million metric tonnes (MMT) to 1,594 MMT in the same period. This growth reflects the Modi government’s relentless focus on modernizing infrastructure and streamlining operations.

The Sagarmala Programme, a flagship initiative launched by the Modi government, has been instrumental in this transformation. With 277 projects worth Rs. 1.41 lakh crores completed, including 104 port modernization projects adding 528 MMTPA capacity, Sagarmala has enhanced port efficiency and connectivity.

The program’s 94 port connectivity projects costing Rs. 58,073 crores, have added 8,400 km of road and rail networks, ensuring seamless movement of goods. These efforts have reduced logistics costs and strengthened India’s supply chain, making its ports a vital artery for 95% of the nation’s trade by volume and 70% by value.

Efficiency gains are equally impressive. The overall turnaround time (TRT) at major ports has halved, dropping from 94 hours in 2013-14 to 48.06 hours in 2023-24. For container vessels, the average TRT improved from 42 hours to 30 hours (median: 26 hours) by 2024-25. The average ship berth-day output has risen by 52% since 2014-15, showcasing enhanced operational efficiency.

These improvements have propelled India’s ranking in the World Bank’s Logistics Performance Index (LPI) for international shipments from 44th in 2014 to 22nd in 2023, with a 17-place jump in shipment timeliness. For the first time, 10 Indian ports featured in the global top 100 of the 2023 Container Port Performance Index (CPPI), with two ranking among the top 30 globally—a testament to the Modi government’s transformative policies.

Strategic Investments and Financial Growth

The Modi government’s commitment to port development is evident in its massive capital expenditure (CAPEX), which surged 228% from Rs. 3,233 crores in 2013-14 to Rs. 10,600 crores in 2024-25, combining Gross Budgetary Support (GBS), Internal and Extra-Budgetary Resources (IEBR), and Public-Private Partnerships (PPP).

This investment has driven financial success, with port revenues rising 120% from Rs. 11,172 crores in 2013-14 to Rs. 24,203 crores in 2024-25. The operating ratio improved by 41%, dropping from 73% to 43%, reflecting stronger profitability and operational efficiency.

Landmark projects under PPP models highlight the government’s innovative approach. The country's first dedicated container trans shipment port at Vizhinjam, including the Vadhavan Port, developed at a cost of Rs. 76,000 crores, will boast a 23 million TEU capacity, positioning it among the world’s top 10 container ports. The Tuna Tekra Container Terminal near Deendayal Port, with an investment of Rs. 4,200 crores, holds a capacity of 2.19 million TEU per year, which was of Rs. 3,000 crores, will handle large cape-size vessels, enhancing capacity by 25 MMTPA. These projects underscore the government’s focus on creating world-class infrastructure to drive economic growth.

Boosting Employment and Sustainability

The maritime sector has become a significant employer, with the number of seafarers rising 174% from 1.17 lakhs in 2013-14 to 3.20 lakhs in 2024-25. Notably, the number of women seafarers has increased tenfold, which is a reflection of the Modi government’s resolution for empowering Nari Shakti.

The Aatmanirbhar Bharat initiative has further strengthened the sector, with Cochin Shipyard Limited building India’s largest 12,000 cubic meter hopper capacity dredger for the Dredging Corporation of India. The launch of India’s first hydrogen fuel cell vessel in Varanasi on July 14, 2024, marks a pioneering step toward sustainable maritime transport, aligning with India’s green energy goals.

Tourism and Cultural Impact

The Modi government’s ‘Cruise Bharat Mission’ is transforming India into a global cruise tourism hub, aiming to establish 10 sea cruise terminals, 100 river cruise terminals, and five marinas over the next five years. Sea cruise passengers have surged 480%, from 0.84 lakh in 2013-14 to 4.92 lakhs in 2024-25. Ocean cruise tourist footfall reached 3.08 lakhs in 2022-23, while lighthouse tourism soared to 12.3 lakhs visitors, boosting coastal economies and showcasing India’s maritime heritage.

The National Maritime Heritage Complex (NMHC) at Lothal, developed at a cost of Rs. 4,280 crores, celebrates India’s rich maritime legacy, fostering cultural pride and tourism.

A Vision for the Future

India’s ports are more than infrastructure—they are pillars of nation-building, driving trade, employment, and global influence. The Modi government’s strategic interventions, from Sagarmala’s transformative projects to PPP-driven mega ports, have positioned India as a maritime superpower. With sustained investments, innovative technologies such as hydrogen vessels, and a focus on sustainability and inclusivity, India’s ports are set to lead the global maritime landscape, powering the nation’s journey toward Viksit Bharat by 2047.