Sarbananda Sonowal unveils ‘One Nation-One Port’ initiative to boost efficiency and ease of business

Union Minister for Ports, Shipping, and Waterways, Sarbananda Sonowal, on Thursday launched a series of initiatives aimed at modernizing India’s maritime infrastructure and positioning the country as a leader in global trade. The announcements were made during a stakeholder meeting in Mumbai, following the Union Budget’s focus on revitalizing the maritime sector.

The key initiatives include the ‘One Nation-One Port Process’ (ONOP), designed to standardize and streamline operations across India’s major ports. This initiative is aimed at removing inefficiencies, cutting costs, and reducing operational delays by standardizing documentation and processes. ONOP is expected to enhance India’s competitiveness in the global maritime sector, contributing to the nation’s economic growth.

Another major announcement was the launch of Sagar Ankalan, the Logistics Port Performance Index (LPPI) for FY 2023-24. This index is designed to benchmark port performance, driving operational excellence and improving India’s logistics and trade connectivity. The index evaluates major and non-major ports based on performance indicators such as cargo handling, turnaround time, and berth idle time. India’s recent rise to 22nd position in the World Bank’s Logistics Performance Index (LPI) for “International Shipments” underscores the country’s progress in global logistics.

Sonowal introduced the Bharat Global Ports Consortium, a new initiative aimed at expanding India’s maritime reach and enhancing global trade resilience. The consortium brings together key players in operations, finance, and infrastructure development to support port expansion, streamline logistics, and boost exports, all contributing to the ‘Make in India’ initiative.

The Minister also unveiled the MAITRI App (Master Application for International Trade and Regulatory Interface), designed to simplify and accelerate trade processes. MAITRI will enable the creation of a ‘Virtual Trade Corridor’ (VTC) between India and the UAE and expand to other regions such as BIMSTEC and ASEAN. The app leverages AI and blockchain technology to reduce processing time and optimize trade flows.

Speaking at the event, Sonowal emphasized that these initiatives align with Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s vision of a “Viksit Bharat” (Developed India) and a self-reliant nation. “India is making decisive steps towards standardized, efficient, and globally competitive ports. We are enhancing port performance, reducing inefficiencies, and cutting carbon footprints, which will strengthen India’s position in global trade,” Sonowal said.

Further reinforcing India’s maritime ambitions, Sonowal announced the India Maritime Week, which will be held from October 27 to 31 in Mumbai. The event will be one of the largest global maritime gatherings, with an expected 100 countries and 100,000 delegates. The week will feature the 4th edition of the Global Maritime India Summit (GMIS) and the 2nd edition of Sagarmanthan: The Great Oceans Dialogue, aiming to position India as a global leader in maritime conversations.

Sonowal also revealed plans to revitalize India’s shipbuilding sector, with increased financial assistance for Indian shipyards, new shipbuilding clusters, and a focus on making India a hub for ship construction. A ₹25,000 crore Maritime Development Fund will provide long-term financing to modernize ports and shipbuilding infrastructure. The government has also extended customs duty exemptions on shipbuilding inputs for another decade.

Sonowal underscored India’s potential to become a top player in the global maritime landscape. “We are aiming to create a world-class ecosystem, efficient, future-ready, and sustainable,” he said, highlighting the role of the maritime sector in driving jobs, trade, and economic growth. “Together, we are shaping India’s economic destiny.”