- India introduces the ‘One Nation: One Port Process’ (ONOP) to standardize port operations.
- Launch of Sagar Ankalan – Logistics Port Performance Index (LPPI) to enhance port efficiency.
- Bharat Global Ports Consortium established to expand India’s maritime trade presence.
- MAITRI digital platform to streamline trade processes and facilitate the Virtual Trade Corridor (VTC).
- Increased financial support and reforms to boost India’s shipbuilding sector.
The Ministry of Ports, Shipping, and Waterways (MoPSW) has unveiled several initiatives to modernize India’s maritime infrastructure, enhance global trade competitiveness, and promote sustainability. These reforms align with India’s long-term vision of becoming a leading maritime powerhouse, reports Mint.
One Nation: One Port Process (ONOP) – Standardizing Operations
The ONOP initiative aims to harmonize operations across India’s major ports by eliminating inefficiencies caused by inconsistent documentation and procedural variations. This move will reduce operational delays, cut costs, and improve overall efficiency. As a first step, the ministry has standardized documentation requirements across Immigration, the Port Health Organization, and port authorities, leading to a 33% reduction in container operation documents (from 143 to 96) and a 29% reduction in bulk cargo documents (from 150 to 106).
Sagar Ankalan – Logistics Port Performance Index (LPPI) Launched
The introduction of Sagar Ankalan – LPPI marks a significant step toward improving port efficiency and enhancing India’s global trade standing. This index will benchmark port performance based on key indicators such as cargo handling, turnaround time, berth idle time, and ship berth-day output. By using a data-driven methodology that balances absolute performance with year-on-year improvement, the initiative aims to foster efficiency and innovation in the maritime sector.
Bharat Global Ports Consortium – Expanding Trade Presence
To strengthen India’s position in global trade, the Bharat Global Ports Consortium has been established, bringing together key entities such as IPGL (operations), SDCL (finance), and IPRCL (infrastructure development). This initiative will streamline logistics, enhance supply chains, and support the ‘Make in India’ program by boosting exports and developing world-class port infrastructure.
MAITRI – Enhancing Digital Trade Connectivity
The launch of MAITRI (Master Application for International Trade and Regulatory Interface) aims to simplify trade procedures, minimize bureaucratic delays, and expedite clearances. A crucial component of India’s Virtual Trade Corridor (VTC) with the UAE, MAITRI is set to expand into BIMSTEC and ASEAN regions, integrating AI and blockchain for improved efficiency and security.
Aligned with the PM Gati Shakti National Master Plan and the National Logistics Policy, MAITRI will facilitate seamless trade, reduce processing time, and contribute to sustainable economic growth.
India Maritime Week 2025 – A Global Gathering
MoPSW has announced the India Maritime Week 2025, scheduled for October 27–31 in Mumbai, positioning it as one of the world’s largest maritime events. The event will feature the 4th Global Maritime India Summit (GMIS) and the 2nd edition of Sagarmanthan and is expected to host representatives from over 100 countries and 100,000 delegates.
As part of this initiative, the ministry, in collaboration with the Observer Research Foundation, launched ‘Sagarmanthan: The Great Oceans Dialogue’, an annual event dedicated to strategic maritime discussions.
Boosting India’s Shipbuilding Sector
In light of recent budgetary announcements, significant reforms have been introduced to strengthen India’s shipbuilding industry. Key measures include:
- ₹25,000 crore Maritime Development Fund to provide long-term financing and attract private investment.
- Recognition of large ships as infrastructure, unlocking new financing opportunities.
- SBFAP 2.0 (Shipbuilding Financial Assistance Policy) to enhance India’s competitiveness in global shipbuilding.
- Extension of customs duty exemptions on shipbuilding inputs for 10 years to support domestic manufacturing.
- Expansion of tonnage tax regime to inland vessels to boost riverine transportation.
These measures will promote shipbuilding clusters, create jobs, and drive technological advancements, strengthening India’s maritime manufacturing base.
Sustainability Focus: National Centre of Excellence in Green Port and Shipping
Reaffirming its commitment to sustainability, the government launched the National Centre of Excellence in Green Port and Shipping (NCoEGPS) website. This platform will serve as a knowledge hub for best practices in carbon footprint reduction, alternative fuels, and eco-friendly port management, ensuring a sustainable future for India’s maritime sector.
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Source: Mint
