Ports play a key role in the Indian economy. At present country’s global trade of nearly 95 per cent in terms of volume and 70 per cent by value is carried on through marine transport. Traffic at major ports is anticipated at a compound annual growth rate of about 8-9 per cent, from 511 million tonnes (MT) April-February 2011-12 to 1,214 MT by 2020, whereas the traffic at non-major ports is expected to grow at a CAGR of 15.96 per cent from the present level of 288.80 Million Tonnes to 1269.59 Million Tonnes by 2019-20. The Maritime Agenda 2020 published by the Ministry of Shipping, Government of India shows an ambitious plan for major and minor ports for development. As per the agenda, the capacity at 13 major ports is likely to increase to 1459.53 Million Tonnes by 2020 from the present level of 616.73 Million Tonnes. The capacity at non-major ports is poised to increase by 2020 to 1660.02 Million Tonnes from the present level of 346.31 Million Tonnes.
Thus, the Indian ports are aiming at a surplus capacity of above 25 per cent over the projected demand. This will enable the ports to provide berthing facilities on arrival of the ships, thus achieving zero waiting time for the vessels. In order to realize this growth potential, a number of policy initiatives have been taken during the recent past. Attention has been focused on improvement in infrastructure, modernization of existing facilities, better logistic chain, increased avenues for Special Economic Zone, type of projects etc.
