India is a nation blessed with a vast coastline stretching over 7,500 kilometers, has emerged as a key player in global maritime trade

Fueling this trade are the numerous ports that dot the Indian coast, serving as crucial entry and exit points for a wide range of import and export data activities.

But within this network, a specific group stands out for their size, capacity, and overall contribution to the Indian economy: the Major Ports.

Major Ports: The Powerhouses of Indian Trade

There are currently 13 Major Ports in India, strategically located along both the eastern and western coastlines.

These ports are under the direct administration of the Ministry of Ports, Shipping and Waterways of the Government of India, highlighting their national significance.

In contrast, over 200 minor ports, also known as non-major ports, operate under the control of respective state governments or private entities through Public Private Partnership (PPP) models.

Here's what differentiates Major Ports from their minor

Size and Infrastructure: Major Ports boast superior infrastructure, including deeper channels, larger cargo handling capacities and advanced technological advancements to facilitate efficient cargo movement.

• Traffic Volume: Major Ports handle a significantly higher volume of cargo compared to minor ports.

They cater to large vessels carrying bulk cargo, containerized goods, and specialized cargo like petroleum products.

• National Importance: Major Ports play a vital role in India's international trade

They handle a substantial portion of the country's import and export needs, impacting various sectors like manufacturing, agriculture, and energy.

Exploring the Major Ports of India

Eastern Coast:

• Kolkata (West Bengal): The oldest operational port in India, Kolkata serves as the gateway to eastern India and the Northeast. It is a major center for coal, fertilizer, and containerized cargo movement.
• Paradip (Odisha): A prominent port for handling bulk cargo like iron ore, coal, and crude oil, Paradip is strategically located to serve the mineral-rich hinterland of Odisha.
• Visakhapatnam (Andhra Pradesh): The largest port on the eastern coast, Visakhapatnam handles a diverse cargo mix, including coal, petroleum products, and container traffic. It is also a major center for shipbuilding and repair.
• Chennai (Tamil Nadu): A prominent port for handling containerized cargo, automobiles, and petroleum products, Chennai caters to South India's trade needs.
• Tuticorin (Tamil Nadu): Located at the southern tip of the Indian peninsula, Tuticorin is a major port for handling coal, minerals and petroleum products. It is also emerging as a key center for container traffic.