The cargo volume handled by India’s 12 major ports witnessed a 5% increase in September, reaching 413.747 million metric tonnes (MMT), according to data released by the Ministry of Ports, Shipping, and Waterways. This growth marks an important milestone in the country's maritime sector, reflecting the robust performance of port infrastructure and its critical role in supporting trade and logistics.

These major ports, which serve as essential gateways for India's international trade, handle a wide variety of cargo, including petroleum, coal, iron ore, and container traffic. The consistent rise in cargo volumes is attributed to the increasing demand for imports and exports, along with efficiency improvements and better infrastructure at these ports.

The growth in cargo volume comes at a time when India is seeking to expand its global trade footprint. By upgrading port facilities and boosting operational efficiencies, the government aims to enhance the capacity of these ports to handle larger cargo volumes, ensuring smooth trade flow. This 5% rise also signifies the positive impact of policy reforms and public-private partnerships in the port sector.

The data further highlights the performance of individual ports such as Kandla, Paradip, and Mumbai, which are key contributors to this growth. The Ministry's focus on digitization, technology adoption, and infrastructure upgrades is expected to sustain this upward trend in the coming months.

With India’s maritime sector playing a pivotal role in economic growth, this increase in cargo volume strengthens its position as a growing trade hub, boosting the nation’s overall competitiveness in the global market.