INCREASE IN OPERATIONAL SHARE OF PRIVATE SECTOR IN PORTS

INCREASE IN OPERATIONAL SHARE OF PRIVATE SECTOR IN PORTS

The cargo handled by Major Ports has increased from 581.34 million metric tonnes (MMT) in Financial Year (FY) 2014-15 to 854.86 MMT in FY 2024-25. During the same period, the cargo handled by Other Than Major Ports (OTMPs) increased from 470.89 MMT to 742.41 MMT. Therefore, during FY 2024-25, the Major Ports account for 53.52% of the total cargo handled in the country, and thus remain a dominant player in the sector.

The policy reforms in the Ports, Shipping and Waterways sector have focused on the creation of a level playing field through open competition and transparent auction methodology, which allows all market players to freely compete for terminals, berths, facilities, etc. under the domain of the  Central Government and the Major Port Authorities Act, 2021. Specifically, the Model Concessionaire Agreement, 2021, provides equal opportunities to all stakeholders through a transparent bidding process. Furthermore, 100% foreign direct investment (FDI) in the sector has opened opportunities for investments by national and international market players. The Government is taking a collaborative approach to promote the Public Private Partnership (PPP) model in order to enhance efficiency and productivity across the maritime landscape.

This information was given by the Union Minister of Ports, Shipping, and Waterways, Shri Sarbananda Sonowal, in a written reply to the Lok Sabha.