**New Delhi**: Union Minister Sarbananda Sonowal introduces initiatives like the ‘One Nation, One Port Process’ and the ‘Sagar Ankalan Logistics Port Performance Index’ to enhance efficiency, sustainability, and India’s global trade capabilities while emphasising the importance of modernising infrastructure in line with PM Modi’s vision.
On Thursday, Union Minister of Ports, Shipping and Waterways, Sarbananda Sonowal, unveiled a series of major initiatives aimed at modernising India’s maritime infrastructure during a stakeholders meeting. The announcement aligns with the broader objectives set out in the Union Budget for the maritime sector, with a focus on enhancing efficiency, sustainability, and India’s global trade presence.
One of the principal initiatives launched was the “One Nation, One Port Process” (ONOP), designed to standardise operations across India’s major ports. This initiative seeks to eliminate inconsistencies in documentation and procedures that have historically contributed to inefficiencies, heightened costs, and operational delays. As part of the revitalising effort, Sonowal introduced the Sagar Ankalan—the Logistics Port Performance Index (LPPI) for the fiscal year 2023-24. This new index is integral to improving operational efficiency and enhancing India’s competitive edge in global maritime trade.
In his address, Sonowal stated, “It gives me immense pleasure to launch the important initiatives of our Ministry which are aligned with honourable PM Narendra Modi’s vision of Viksit Bharat.” He noted that the ONOP and Sagar Ankalan initiatives signify a decisive move towards creating streamlined and efficient ports, which are pivotal for reducing carbon footprints and fortifying India’s stance in global trade.
Another significant initiative announced was the Bharat Global Ports Consortium, aimed at strengthening India’s maritime reach and enhancing global trade resilience. Alongside this, the MAITRI logo—Master Application for International Trade and Regulatory Interface—was launched to further streamline trade processes by reducing bureaucratic hurdles and expediting clearances. Speaking about these initiatives, Sonowal remarked that they represent a transformative step in reinforcing India’s maritime and trade framework and are part of the sustained efforts since 2014 under Prime Minister Modi’s leadership.
The ONOP initiative aims to harmonise port procedures and has already resulted in a reduction of container operation documents by 33%, decreasing from 143 to 96, and a 29% reduction in bulk cargo documentation. This reform is seen as critical to achieving the Maritime Amrit Kaal Vision 2047, which seeks to ensure transparency and optimised port management.
MAITRI is expected to facilitate the operationalisation of a ‘Virtual Trade Corridor’ (VTC) connecting India with the UAE, in alignment with the India-Middle East-Europe Economic Corridor (IMEEC). This initiative, which anticipates expansion to BIMSTEC and ASEAN nations, integrates advanced technological frameworks such as artificial intelligence and blockchain to streamline trade flows and ensure secure transactions.
The Sagar Ankalan LPPI will assess performance across both major and non-major ports, focusing on key metrics including cargo handling efficiency, turnaround time, and berth idle time. This structured approach aims to foster a culture of efficiency, thereby driving Indian ports closer to global benchmarks.
India’s recent progress in global logistics is noteworthy; the country has improved its ranking in the World Bank’s Logistics Performance Index (LPI) for “International Shipments” from 44th to 22nd place. The Bharat Global Ports Consortium brings together various entities for a focused overhaul of port operations, financing, and infrastructure development, reinforcing India’s ambition to emerge as a pivotal player in international trade.
In addition to these initiatives, Sonowal announced the upcoming India Maritime Week, scheduled for 27-31 October 2025 in Mumbai. This bi-annual global maritime gathering will host significant events, including the 4th edition of the Global Maritime India Summit, with an expected attendance of delegates representing 100 countries.
Furthermore, the Union Minister addressed recent budgetary provisions, mentioning a ₹25,000 crore Maritime Development Fund designed to modernise port and shipping infrastructure and stimulate private investment. Key measures outlined also include the extension of customs duty exemptions on shipbuilding inputs for another decade and the introduction of a tonnage tax regime for inland vessels, aimed at making river transport more appealing.
The National Centre of Excellence in Green Port and Shipping website was also launched, representing a significant step towards promoting sustainability within the maritime sector. This platform will provide insights and best practices focused on reducing carbon emissions and promoting eco-friendly management within port operations.
Concluding his remarks, Sonowal emphasised the multifaceted potential of India’s Blue Economy, noting its connections to job creation, trade, sustainability, and economic growth. He reiterated the government’s commitment to establishing a world-class maritime ecosystem that is both efficient and future-ready.
Source: Noah Wire Services
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