Vizhinjam Port Inaugurated by PM Modi in Kerala

Vizhinjam Port: In a momentous development for India’s maritime infrastructure, Prime Minister Shri dedicated the Vizhinjam International Deepwater Multipurpose Seaport to the nation today in Thiruvananthapuram, Kerala. Developed at a cost of ₹8,800 crore, this strategic port stands as India’s first dedicated container transshipment hub and symbolizes the country’s march towards becoming a global logistics powerhouse.

The dedication ceremony coincided with the auspicious birth anniversary of Bhagwan Adi Shankaracharya, a revered spiritual icon who hailed from and played a pivotal role in unifying and spiritually awakening the Indian subcontinent. Addressing the gathering, Prime Minister Modi reminisced about his visit to Adi Shankaracharya’s birthplace three years ago and spoke of the installation of grand statues of the spiritual leader in Vishwanath Dham (Kashi) and Kedarnath Dham (Uttarakhand). He observed that the Kedarnath temple also opened its doors to devotees today, adding a deeper spiritual significance to the occasion.

Vizhinjam Port: A New Symbol of Development and Maritime Strength

Highlighting the port’s strategic importance, Prime Minister Modi stated that Vizhinjam Seaport, situated along the Arabian Sea and nestled amid Kerala’s natural beauty, is poised to become a cornerstone of India’s blue economy. The Prime Minister emphasized that the port’s natural deep draft of nearly 20 meters allows it to handle the world’s largest cargo vessels, marking a transformative step for India’s maritime capabilities.

Previously, 75% of India’s transshipment cargo was routed through foreign ports, resulting in significant revenue loss. With Vizhinjam now operational, India is set to retain and reinvest this economic value domestically, generating new employment and business opportunities for Kerala and the broader region.

The Vizhinjam International Deepwater Multipurpose Seaport in Kerala is a significant advancement in India's maritime infrastructure. https://t.co/sUeQ5k7TK1

— Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) May 2, 2025

Reclaiming India’s Maritime Legacy

Prime Minister Modi reflected on India’s glorious maritime past, noting that before colonial rule, India was a dominant global economic power, thanks largely to its flourishing port cities. Kerala, with its extensive coastline, played a crucial role in connecting India to other parts of the world through trade.

He reiterated that the Government of India is committed to revitalizing this legacy, with coastal states like Kerala emerging as growth engines for a developed India. Under the Sagarmala Project and PM Gati Shakti, port infrastructure is being modernized, and connectivity is being strengthened through an integrated network of waterways, railways, highways, and airways.

Transformative Maritime Reforms Over the Past Decade

The Prime Minister detailed the major maritime reforms undertaken over the past 10 years:

• Doubling port capacity
• Eightfold expansion of national waterways
• Reduction of ship turnaround time by 30%, increasing port efficiency
• Surge in Indian seafarers from 1.25 lakh in 2014 to over 3.25 lakh
• India’s improved rank on the Logistics Performance Index
• India’s emergence among the top 20 global shipbuilding nations

He also highlighted the Maritime Amrit Kaal Vision, India’s comprehensive maritime strategy aimed at strengthening its global trade footprint.

Vision for Kerala: A Global Maritime Hub

Prime Minister Modi affirmed Kerala’s critical role in the India-Middle East-Europe Economic Corridor, a key outcome of the recent G-20 Summit. The corridor will significantly boost trade and establish Kerala as a vital node in global commerce.

He also announced the development of a shipbuilding and repair cluster in Kochi, expected to create thousands of job opportunities for local youth and MSMEs. The initiative aligns with the new Union Budget policy that promotes the domestic construction of large ships.

Infrastructure-Led Inclusive Growth in Kerala

Shri Modi outlined the progress made across multiple sectors in Kerala under the Central Government’s vision:

• Modern highways and bypass projects like Kollam and Alappuzha completed
• Introduction of Vande Bharat trains, enhancing rail connectivity
• Welfare initiatives including Jal Jeevan Mission, Ujjwala Yojana, Ayushman Bharat, and PM Suryagarh Free Electricity Scheme

Special attention has also been paid to fishermen’s welfare through initiatives like the Blue Revolution and PM Matsya Sampada Yojana, with projects to modernize harbors like Ponnani and Puthiyappa, and distribution of Kisan Credit Cards for financial assistance.

Tribute to Kerala’s Spirit of Harmony

Kerala’s deep-rooted cultural and spiritual heritage was also celebrated. Prime Minister Modi paid homage to Saint Thomas Church, one of the world’s oldest churches, and offered his condolences on the passing of Pope Francis, recalling his personal meetings with the Pope and the warmth shared during their discussions on peace, humanity, and service.

Conclusion: Maritime Sector to Soar, Kerala to Lead

In his concluding remarks, Prime Minister Modi expressed confidence that the Vizhinjam Port will serve as a catalyst for India’s maritime resurgence, making Kerala a key center of global maritime trade. He emphasized the importance of Public-Private Partnerships in achieving global standards in port operations and reiterated the Central Government’s commitment to working with the Kerala State Government for holistic development.

“India’s maritime sector will reach new heights, and Kerala will lead the way,” he affirmed, envisioning a future where economic growth, employment, infrastructure, and cultural heritage walk hand-in-hand towards the goal of Viksit Bharat.

About Vizhinjam International Seaport

The Vizhinjam International Deepwater Multipurpose Seaport is strategically located near international shipping lanes and is designed to be a global container transshipment hub. With state-of-the-art facilities, natural deep draft, and modern logistics support, the port is expected to dramatically reduce India’s reliance on foreign ports and transform the country’s logistics landscape.

This flagship infrastructure project is a testament to the Government of India’s vision of building a resilient, self-reliant, and globally competitive maritime sector under the larger framework of Atmanirbhar Bharat.