Competitive maritime policies and strategic dimensions for commercial seaports in India

Seaports are very critical in international trade, as they provide linkages between international and domestic production and distribution networks. Rapid economic growth in India demanding quality logistical services, implying that seaports, often characterized by inefficiency, would play pivotal roles. The National Maritime Development Program executed between 2005 and 2010 has significant impact on the growth of commercial seaport in India. In order to make the system more vibrant, ministry of shipping, Government of India has formulated the Maritime Agenda: 2010–2020. The changes proposed in the perspective plan will attract investments for creation and up-gradation of infrastructure in the ports. These reform process mostly likely to create a new scenario forcing the growth in the port sector. New commercial seaports are in the growing trend, while the old ones are facing the loss of their traffic and the situation appears to be developing new strategies. The present paper is a reflection on the findings generated in recent years in the area of competitive policies. The main focus is on the strategic issues, policy framework and its consequences for the future Indian scenario.

► Author reviewed and summarized Maritime policies of India.
► Competitiveness of the policy and regulatory framework is evaluated.
► Challenges and opportunities are identified for growth of commercial seaports in India.
► Strategic factors are discussed.