On May 13, 2025, India’s Major Ports reported a stellar performance for FY 2024-25, achieving a 4.3% growth in cargo handling, reaching 855 million tonnes. This milestone, driven by enhanced operational efficiency and infrastructure modernization, underscores their pivotal role in boosting India’s maritime trade and economic growth.
Cargo Handling Achievements
Record-Breaking Volumes
The ports handled 855 million tonnes of cargo in FY 2024-25, up from 819 million tonnes in FY 2023-24. Key contributors included a 10% increase in container throughput, 13% in fertilizers, 3% in Petroleum, Oil, and Lubricants (POL), and a 31% surge in miscellaneous commodities. POL led with 254.5 million tonnes (29.8%), followed by container traffic at 193.5 million tonnes (22.6%) and coal at 186.6 million tonnes (21.8%).
Port-Specific Milestones
Paradip and Deendayal Shine
For the first time, Paradip Port Authority (PPA) and Deendayal Port Authority (DPA) surpassed 150 million tonnes in cargo handling, establishing themselves as leading maritime hubs. Meanwhile, Jawaharlal Nehru Port Authority (JNPA) set a record by handling 7.3 million TEUs, reflecting a 13.5% year-on-year growth.
Operational Efficiency
Enhanced Productivity
Operational improvements in FY 2024-25 included a 36% reduction in Pre-Berthing Detention (PBD) Time compared to FY 2023-24. Over the decade, Average Turnaround Time (TRT) improved by 48%, from 96 hours to 49.5 hours, and Output per Ship Berth Day (OSBD) rose from 12,458 tonnes to 18,304 tonnes. These gains reflect advancements in mechanization and port community systems.
Financial Performance
Robust Growth
The financial performance of Major Ports was equally impressive, with total income rising by 8% to ₹24,203 crore in FY 2024-25 from ₹22,468 crore in FY 2023-24. The operating surplus grew by 7% to ₹12,314 crore, and the operating ratio improved to 42.3%, highlighting financial sustainability.
Infrastructure and Investments
Port-Led Industrialization
In FY 2024-25, ports allocated 962 acres for port-led industrialization, projected to generate ₹7,565 crore in income and attract ₹68,780 crore in future investments. Public-Private Partnership (PPP) investments tripled to ₹3,986 crore, reflecting strong investor confidence in projects like the Tuna Tekra Container Terminal and Vadhavan Port.
Future Outlook
Global Competitiveness
India’s Major Ports are set to enhance their global standing through continued digital integration, multi-modal logistics, and sustainable practices. With initiatives like the Sagarmala Programme and Maritime India Vision 2030, the ports aim to achieve a capacity of 10,000 MTPA by 2047, supporting India’s economic and trade ambitions.
Key Facts About India’s Major Ports in FY 2024-25
- Announcement Date: May 13, 2025
- Cargo Handled: 855 million tonnes, up 4.3% from 819 million tonnes
- Top Commodity: POL at 254.5 million tonnes (29.8%)
- Record Ports: Paradip and Deendayal Ports surpassed 150 million tonnes
- JNPA Achievement: 7.3 million TEUs, 13.5% growth
- Financial Growth: Total income at ₹24,203 crore, operating surplus at ₹12,314 crore
- Land Allocation: 962 acres for port-led industrialization