India’s major ports set record in FY 2024-25, cementing a decade of maritime growth

India's major ports have achieved record-breaking results in the financial year 2024-25, marking a major success for the country's maritime sector. According to the Ministry of Ports, Shipping and Waterways, these ports handled around 855 million tonnes of cargo, up from 819 million tonnes last year, a growth of 4.3%.
The increase came mainly from higher traffic in containers (up 10%), fertilizers (up 13%), petroleum products (up 3%), and other goods (up 31%). Petroleum, oil, and lubricants (POL) made up the largest share with 254.5 million tonnes, followed by container cargo at 193.5 million tonnes and coal at 186.6 million tonnes.
For the first time, Paradip Port and Deendayal Port handled over 150 million tonnes each. Jawaharlal Nehru Port handled 7.3 million TEUs, a 13.5% jump. The Ministry also allotted 962 acres of port land worth ₹7,565 crore, expected to attract ₹68,780 crore in investments.
Public-private partnerships tripled to ₹3,986 crore, boosting development. Operational efficiency improved, with turnaround time dropping and income rising to ₹24,203 crore. Over the last decade, cargo handled rose from 581 to 855 million tonnes, showing steady growth in both operations and earnings, highlighting the ports’ increasing role in India’s trade future.