image credits: paradip port authority
Odisha’s Paradip Port secured the prestigious Sagar Aankalan Certificate with its exceptional performance in bulk cargo handling. This achievement highlights the port’s pivotal role in boosting India’s maritime infrastructure and highlights Odisha’s growing prominence in the national and global trade landscape. Recognized for its outstanding efficiency in the 5 MMT (million metric tonnes) category during the financial year 2023-24, Paradip Port has set a benchmark for operational excellence among major Indian ports.
What is the Sagar Aankalan Certificate?
The Sagar Aankalan Certificate is an accolade awarded under the Logistics Port Performance Index (LPPI) by the Ministry of Ports, Shipping, and Waterways, Government of India. This index evaluates the performance of ports based on their efficiency in handling cargo, turnaround times, and overall logistics capabilities.
For the financial year 2023-24, Paradip Port clinched the top spot in the bulk cargo handling category for ports managing 5 MMT or more. The certificate was presented to Nilabhra Dasgupta, Deputy Chairman of the Paradip Port Authority (PPA), during a Post-Budget Industry Meet in Mumbai, an event that explored the transformative impact of the Viksit Bharat Budget 2025 on India’s maritime sector. The award was presented by Hon’ble Minister of Ports, Shipping & Waterways Shri Sarbananda Sonowal.
Paradip Port’s Stellar Performance in 2023-24
Paradip Port’s recognition as the number one port in bulk cargo handling is backed by impressive statistics. In the financial year 2023-24, the port demonstrated remarkable efficiency in managing large-scale cargo operations, particularly in the 5 MMT category. This achievement is even more significant given the challenging market conditions during this period, including a decline in iron ore export demand and thermal coal trade. Despite these hurdles, Paradip Port maintained its operational momentum.
By the end of February in the current fiscal year (2024-25), Paradip Port achieved a historic milestone by becoming the fastest among India’s major ports to handle 136.25 MMT of cargo throughput. This record-breaking feat highlights the port’s capacity to manage high volumes efficiently. Port authorities anticipate that the current fiscal year will culminate in an all-time high in cargo handling, further solidifying Paradip’s position as a leader in India’s maritime sector.
What major improvements drove the port’s success?
The Sagar Aankalan Certificate is not just a recognition of past achievements but also a reflection of Paradip Port’s strategic enhancements. The port has invested in operational excellence, optimizing cargo handling processes to reduce turnaround times and increase throughput. These improvements have positioned Paradip as a critical hub for industries reliant on bulk cargo, such as steel, fertilizers, and energy. Additionally, the port’s focus on coastal shipping has enhanced its role in catering to domestic trade needs.
The Paradip Port Authority (PPA) has played a key role in driving these advancements. Under the leadership of officials like Nilabhra Dasgupta, the PPA has prioritized infrastructure upgrades and process streamlining, ensuring the port remains competitive on a global scale. This aligns with the broader objectives of the Sagar Aankalan initiative, which aims to enhance efficiency and elevate India’s maritime sector to international standards.
