India’s cargo-handling capacity has seen significant growth over the past nine years, with an increase from 871.52 million tonnes per annum (MTPA) in 2014-15 to 1629.86 MTPA in 2023-24.
Key Highlights:
- The capacity has risen by 87% from 2014-15 to 2023-24.
- Tamil Nadu’s Kamarajar Port has seen an impressive growth of 154%.
- Three other ports have recorded an increase in load capacity of over 100%.
India’s Maritime Significance
India is a maritime nation with a coastline stretching over 7,517 km. Maritime transport plays a crucial role in the country’s trade and energy needs:
- 95% of trade by volume is handled through maritime transport.
- 70% of trade by value is conducted through sea routes.
- 80% of India’s energy (oil & gas) is imported by sea.
Port Infrastructure in India
India has a well-developed port network:
- 12 major ports and 205 minor and intermediate ports.
- The total cargo-handling capacity across all ports stands at 1,629.96 MTPA.
Sagarmala Programme and Coastal Economic Zones
Under the National Perspective Plan of the Sagarmala Programme, fourteen Coastal Economic Zones have been proposed. These zones are primarily aimed at promoting port-led industrialisation.
Multiple-Choice Questions (MCQs):
1. What was the cargo-handling capacity of Indian ports in 2014-15?
a) 1629.86 MTPA
b) 871.52 MTPA
c) 1000 MTPA
d) 500 MTPA
Answer: b) 871.52 MTPA
2. By what percentage did India’s cargo-handling capacity increase from 2014-15 to 2023-24?
a) 100%
b) 87%
c) 50%
d) 70%
Answer: b) 87%
3. Which port in Tamil Nadu registered the highest growth in cargo-handling capacity?
a) Mumbai Port
b) Kamarajar Port
c) Chennai Port
d) Jawaharlal Nehru Port
Answer: b) Kamarajar Port
4. What percentage of India’s energy (oil & gas) comes by sea?
a) 50%
b) 80%
c) 70%
d) 95%
Answer: b) 80%
5. How many Coastal Economic Zones are envisaged under the Sagarmala Programme?
a) 5
b) 10
c) 14
d) 20
Answer: c) 14