India unveils Port Performance Index, maritime digital reforms to boost global competitiveness

India has taken a step towards modernizing its maritime sector with the launch of the Logistics Port Performance Index (LPPI) for FY 2024-25 and four major digital initiatives. The LPPI, developed under the Sagar Aankalan framework, is a national benchmarking mechanism designed to assess and improve the operational performance of Indian ports. The index aligns with the PM Gati Shakti National Master Plan, Maritime India Vision 2030, and Maritime Amrit Kaal Vision 2047. The LPPI evaluates ports across three cargo segments using operational indicators such as cargo handled, vessel turnaround time, and berth idle time. Union Minister of Ports, Shipping and Waterways Sarbananda Sonowal launched the LPPI and digital initiatives during the 37th Foundation Day celebrations of the Jawaharlal Nehru Port Authority in Mumbai. The digital initiatives include a 24x7 Grievance Redressal Module, a Ship Registration Module, a Medical Practitioner Module, and a Unified Ship Recycling Credit Note Module. These initiatives aim to improve service delivery, transparency, and accountability for seafarers and maritime stakeholders. The Unified Ship Recycling Portal is part of the Government's Rs 70,000-crore maritime development package announced in 2025. The Jawaharlal Nehru Port Authority crossed 8 million TEUs and handled more than 102 million metric tonnes of cargo during FY 2025-26.