PM Modi inaugurates Rs 8,800-corer Vizhinjam Port, boosts maritime growth

Kerala: Prime Minister Narendra Modi inaugurated the Vizhinjam International Deepwater Multipurpose Seaport in Kerala, emphasizing its strategic role in transforming India’s maritime economy and enhancing the country’s global trade capacity.

A milestone in maritime infrastructure

Inaugurated in Thiruvananthapuram, Vizhinjam Port marks India’s first dedicated transshipment hub. Developed at a cost of Rs 8,800 crore, the port is equipped to handle some of the world’s largest cargo ships. Modi highlighted that 75% of India’s transshipment previously occurred at foreign ports, resulting in revenue loss—an issue the new port aims to address by retaining trade earnings and boosting Kerala’s economy.

Linking ancient legacy with modern development

In his address on Adi Shankaracharya’s birth anniversary, Modi connected the spiritual leader’s legacy with India’s vision of unity and progress. He noted Shankaracharya’s Kerala origins and his role in building pan-Indian spiritual institutions, framing the port inauguration as part of a broader vision for a unified and developed Bharat.

Strengthening India’s maritime presence

Modi said India is moving towards reclaiming its historic maritime strength. Centuries ago, India dominated global trade through coastal states like Kerala. Today, initiatives such as the Sagarmala Project and PM Gati Shakti are revitalizing this legacy by integrating ports with rail, road, and air connectivity to enhance logistics and industrial growth.

Public-private push in port development

Highlighting increased private investment in port infrastructure, Modi noted that thousands of crores have been mobilized under Public-Private Partnerships in the last decade. This collaboration has helped modernize ports and drive innovation, making Indian ports future-ready.

Efficiency and seafarer growth

Modi pointed out a 30% reduction in ship turnaround times at major Indian ports over the past decade, with cargo handling efficiency on the rise. He also noted a surge in the number of Indian seafarers—from 1.25 lakh in 2014 to over 3.25 lakh today—placing India among the top three countries in seafaring manpower.

Vision for shipbuilding and job creation

The PM announced plans for a shipbuilding and repair cluster in Kochi, which will create significant employment and boost MSMEs. A new policy encouraging the construction of large ships in India, introduced in the Union Budget, is expected to stimulate domestic manufacturing and entrepreneurship.

Kerala’s role in a global trade corridor

Citing Kerala’s importance in the proposed India-Middle East-Europe Economic Corridor, Modi underscored the state’s strategic location in global trade. He expressed confidence that Vizhinjam will emerge as a vital link in India’s maritime future.

Development beyond ports

Modi highlighted other infrastructure projects in Kerala, including the Kollam and Alappuzha bypasses and Vande Bharat trains. Welfare schemes like Jal Jeevan Mission, Ujjwala Yojana, and Ayushman Bharat were also cited as key contributors to Kerala’s progress.

Support for fishermen and coastal communities

Modi reaffirmed his government’s commitment to fishermen through the Pradhan Mantri Matsya Sampada Yojana and Blue Revolution projects. Modernization of harbors such as Ponnani and Puthiyappa and access to Kisan Credit Cards for thousands of fishermen are expected to improve livelihoods.

Tribute to Pope Francis from Kerala’s soil

Modi offered condolences on the passing of Pope Francis, highlighting the legacy of harmony in Kerala. He recalled his personal meetings with the Pope, praising his inclusive vision and service to humanity. President Droupadi Murmu represented India at the Pope’s funeral.

A unified vision for Viksit Bharat

Modi concluded by reaffirming his government’s commitment to cooperative federalism and Kerala’s development. He projected Vizhinjam as a gateway to thousands of new jobs and a symbol of India’s growing influence in global trade.

Strategic gateway for India

Vizhinjam Port, with a natural deep draft of 20 meters, lies close to major international shipping routes. Designed to reduce India’s dependence on foreign ports, it is positioned to enhance national logistics, reduce costs, and assert India’s maritime strength under the Viksit Bharat vision.