The Business Bytes
TBB BUREAU
NEW DELHI, APR 28, 2023
India’s major ports reached unprecedented heights, setting new records across various key performance indicators in the financial year 2022-23, said Union Minister for Ports, Shipping & Waterways, Sarbananda Sonowal.
Speaking at the 2nd edition of FICCI’s Port Infrastructure Conclave in New Delhi today, Sonowal noted that major ports collectively handled a record-breaking 795 million tonnes of cargo, registering a 10.4% growth over the previous year. Furthermore, they achieved the highest-ever output per day of 17,239 tonnes, marking a 6% increase compared to last year. Another significant accomplishment was the best-ever operating ratio of 48.54%.
The Minister said that the Jawaharlal Nehru Port Authority (JNPA) set a new benchmark by handling over 6 million TEUs, reflecting the highest container throughput. He said the major ports recorded their highest-ever number of vessels handled, reaching a total of 21,846 vessels in the year.
Sonowal said the fleet of ships sailing under the Indian flag has expanded from 1,205 in 2014 to 1,526 by 2023, showcasing the country’s commitment to strengthening its maritime presence. This growth has been accompanied by a significant rise in gross tonnage, increasing from 10.3 million in 2014 to 13.7 million in 2023, reflecting the enhanced capacity and scale of operations.
The number of Indian seafarers has grown from 1,17,090 in 2014 to a remarkable 2,50,071 in 2022, registering an increase of almost 114% in just nine years, he added.
Sonowal emphasized that these historic achievements underscore India’s dedication to developing and modernising its port infrastructure to boost trade and support economic growth.
“Ninety-five per cent of India’s trading by volume and 70 per cent by value is done through maritime transportation. For smooth and efficient trading, most-modern and advanced port infrastructure is of paramount importance,” said Sonowal.
Sonowal also launched the FICCI – CRISIL Knowledge Paper on ‘Smart, Safe & Sustainable Ports.’ The Knowledge Paper delves into the key elements that contribute to the creation of smart, safe, and sustainable ports. It offers a comprehensive overview of the latest technological advancements, operational best practices, and sustainability initiatives that port operators can adopt to optimize port efficiency and minimize environmental impact.
