SAGARMALA PROGRAMME AND PORT MODERNISATION

Key Highlights:

• The Sagarmala Programme is a Central Sector Scheme by the Ministry of Ports, Shipping and Waterways (MoPSW) aimed at port-led development.
• It operates on five pillars: port modernization, port connectivity, port-led industrialization, coastal community development, and coastal shipping & inland water transport.
• Under the scheme, 79 projects worth ₹5374.5 crore have been completed, and 54 projects worth ₹4538.2 crore are under implementation.
• India's cargo handling capacity at major and other ports is projected to increase to 2,818 Million Tonnes Per Annum (MTPA) by March 2026, up from ~1,400 MTPA in 2013-14.
• The One Nation One Port Process (ONOP) has been implemented to streamline port operations and reduce vessel turnaround time.

Detailed Insights:

• The programme provides financial assistance for projects across its five pillars to enhance port infrastructure and efficiency.
• Measures to boost port capacity include new berths, mechanization, capital dredging, and improved road/rail connectivity.
• A total of 294 rail and road connectivity projects have been identified, with 84 completed and 66 under implementation.
• The Inland Waterways Authority of India (IWAI) has completed several Multi Modal Terminals (MMTs), Inland Water Transport (IWT) terminals, and Roll-on/Roll-off (Ro-Ro) terminals on various National Waterways (NW).
• MoPSW has sanctioned ₹272 crore for 9 projects in Andhra Pradesh, covering areas like Ro-Pax jetties, fishing harbours, port modernization, and skill development.

Key Concepts Involved:

• Sagarmala Programme: A national initiative for port-led development to boost logistics efficiency and economic growth.
• Central Sector Scheme: A scheme fully funded by the Central Government and implemented by central agencies.
• One Nation One Port Process (ONOP): A streamlined process to standardize and improve operational efficiency across Indian ports.
• Inland Waterways Authority of India (IWAI): A statutory body responsible for the development and regulation of inland waterways for shipping and navigation.