India’s Union Ministry of Ports, Shipping, and Waterways launched initiatives like One Nation, One Port Process (ONOP) to reduce documentation, streamline operations, and cut delays. Coupled with digital tools like MAITRI, performance benchmarks via Sagar Ankalan, and a ₹25,000 crore shipbuilding fund, these reforms boost competitiveness and sustainable trade.
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The Union Ministry of Ports, Shipping, and Waterways launched several initiatives, including the “One Nation, One Port Process” (ONOP) to standardize and streamline operations across major ports.
The Ministry has harmonized documentation with Immigration, Port Health Organizations, and port authorities. This reduced container operation documents by 33% (from 143 to 96) and bulk cargo documents by 29% (from 150 to 106).
By unifying port procedures, ONOP targets operational delays and inconsistencies that increase costs and hinder trade.
The initiative aligns with India’s goal to become a global maritime leader, supporting the Maritime Amrit Kaal Vision 2047.
Sagar Ankalan benchmarks port performance using metrics like cargo handling, turnaround time, berth idle time, and container dwell time.
The index drives operational excellence, transparency, and global competitiveness by equally weighting absolute performance and year-on-year improvement.
A consortium of public sector companies (India Ports Global, Sagarmala Development Company, and India Port Rail & Ropeway Corporation) to develop and operate ports globally.
Aligns with the India-Middle East-Europe Economic Corridor (IMEEC) and plans to expand to BIMSTEC and ASEAN nations using AI and Blockchain for efficiency.
Streamlines trade processes by operationalizing the Virtual Trade Corridor (VTC) between India and the UAE. It standardizes documentation and integrates digital solutions.
Reduces processing time, optimizes trade flows, and positions India as a leader in global logistics.
A ₹25,000 crore Maritime Development Fund (MDF) to provide long-term financing for shipbuilding and repair, announced in the Union Budget 2025.
Key Measures:
Boosts domestic manufacturing, creates jobs, and enhances global competitiveness .
The ONOP initiative and related measures mark a transformative leap for India’s maritime sector. By standardizing port operations, leveraging digital innovation (e.g., MAITRI), and revitalizing shipbuilding, India aims to reduce inefficiencies, cut carbon footprints, and emerge as a global leader in logistics and trade facilitation.
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