Syllabus: GS3/Infrastructure
Context
- The major ports in India have, over the last few years, transformed into smart ports, with IT and automation bringing about major gains in efficiencies.
About
- Platforms such as National Logistics Portal (Marine), Sagar Setu, and e-Samudra have digitised port operations.
- However, the next phase requires “intelligent ports” powered by AI, moving from digitisation to data-driven decision-making.
Why is AI Needed in Ports?
- AI can enhance project planning and predictive decision-making.
- Enables congestion forecasting and Just-in-Time berthing, reducing turnaround time.
- Improves trade facilitation and compliance with safety and environmental norms.
- Helps in energy optimisation and cost reduction.
Key Digital Reforms in Ports
- Implementation of Maritime Single Window for seamless regulatory approvals.
- Introduction of ONOD (One Nation One Document) and ONOP (One Nation One Process) to standardise documentation.
- Reduction of redundant paperwork across customs, immigration, and port authorities.
- Shift from manual to fully digital workflows, improving transparency and efficiency.
India’s Port Sector
- There are 14 major ports out of which 12 Major Ports are in Operation and 200 non-major ports (minor ports) in the country.
- Authoritative Control: Major Ports are under the administrative control of the Ministry of Ports, Shipping and Waterways, the non-major ports are under the jurisdiction of respective State Maritime Boards/ State Government.
- Strategic Position: Located along the world’s busiest shipping routes, India is a key trading hub and a rising global power.
- India’s Maritime Sector Overview: Handles 95% of India’s trade by volume and 70% by value, with port infrastructure critical to the economy.
- Port Ranking Improvement: India’s port ranking improved from 54th in 2014 to 38th in 2023, with nine Indian ports now in the top 100 globally.
- Growth in Cargo-handling: Between 2014-15 and 2023-24, major ports increased their annual cargo-handling capacity by 87.01%.
- Maritime Sector’s Importance: India is the 16th-largest maritime nation, occupies a key position in global shipping, with major trade routes passing through its waters.
- Future Goals: India has outlined investments of US$ 82 billion in port infrastructure projects by 2035 to bolster the maritime sector.
- India plans to establish a new shipping company to expand its fleet by at least 1,000 ships within a decade.
Challenges
- Infrastructure Gaps: Inadequate port infrastructure and outdated facilities at some ports, limiting capacity and efficiency.
- Congestion: High traffic volumes at major ports leading to delays, increased turnaround times, and reduced productivity.
- Environmental Concerns: Pollution and sustainability issues, including emissions from ships and port operations.
- Logistics Bottlenecks: Inefficient transport connectivity between ports, roads, and railways, impacting smooth cargo movement.
- Global Competition: Rising competition from other global maritime hubs, necessitates continuous investment and modernization.
Initiatives by the Government
- Sagarmala Programme: Focuses on leveraging India’s coastline and of navigable waterways.
- Supports port infrastructure, coastal development, and connectivity.
- Financial aid for projects like coastal berths, rail/road connectivity, fish harbours, and cruise terminals.
- Maritime India Vision 2030 (MIV 2030): Aiming for India to become a top 10 shipbuilding nation by 2030 and create a world-class, efficient, and sustainable maritime ecosystem.
- Includes 150+ initiatives across ten key maritime sectors.
- Inland Waterways Development: 26 new national waterways identified by the Inland Waterways Authority of India (IWAI).
- Provides alternative, sustainable transport, easing road/rail congestion.
- Green Tug Transition Program (GTTP): Aims to replace fuel-based harbour tugs with eco-friendly, sustainable fuel-powered tugs.
- Transition to be completed by 2040 across major ports.
- Sagarmanthan Dialogue: An annual maritime strategic dialogue to position India as a global center for maritime conversations.
- Maritime Development Fund: ₹25,000 crore fund for long-term financing to modernize ports and shipping infrastructure, encouraging private investment.
- Shipbuilding Financial Assistance Policy (SBFAP 2.0): Modernized to help Indian shipyards compete with global giants.
Source: TH
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