PRIVATE PORTS DRIVING MARITIME VISION 2030

Insights from Devki Nandan, President, IPPTA and Senior Executive Vice President and Head (Business Development and M&A), JSW Infrastructure on enhancing India's port infrastructure and private sector's role

How do you view the performance of Indian ports? How are you experiencing the progress this year?

Since the privatization of Indian ports in 1997, their performance has significantly improved, reaching international standards. Port capacities have expanded to meet increasing trade demands. Enhanced road and rail connectivity through the PM Gati Shakti National Master Plan and public-private partnerships have boosted India's maritime competitiveness. India's rank in the World Bank Logistics Performance Index (LPI) for International Shipments improved from 44th in 2014 to 22nd in 2023. Government policy reforms and new technologies have increased port efficiency and productivity, with continued progress in 2023 through the development of new port terminals.

What is your overview of Indian ports improving their performance on a global level?

Nine Indian ports are now in the global top 100 rankings in the Container Port Performance Index (CPPI) by the World Bank and S&P Global Market Intelligence, reflecting their resilience, efficiency, and overall performance. These improvements in operational efficiency bode well for the future growth of the Indian port sector. Going forward, we see investment in infrastructure and new technology in ports, which will further improve efficiency in operations.

How is containerization growing at Indian ports and maritime trade?