Major Ports and Private Ports

The difference between India's government-run major ports and state or private ports, and how private ports like Mundra grew fast.

India’s ports fall into two groups.

Major ports

Around 12 major ports under the central government, such as Jawaharlal Nehru Port (Mumbai), Chennai, Kolkata, Paradip, Deendayal (Kandla) and Visakhapatnam.
Governed by the Major Port Authorities Act, 2021, which gave them more autonomy.
Many terminals inside them are run by private operators under concessions.

Non-major ports

Under state governments, often developed by private firms.
Examples: Mundra (Adani, in Gujarat), Krishnapatnam, Dhamra and others.

The rise of private ports

Non-major ports have grown faster than major ports, and now handle a large share of India’s cargo. Mundra became India’s largest commercial port by cargo.

Why private ports grew

Faster decisions and investment.
Modern equipment.
Integrated services: rail links, warehouses and special economic zones.

Competition

Competition between ports pushed major ports to improve efficiency.

Choosing a port

A Gujarat exporter can ship through a government major port or a nearby private port. The private port offers faster handling and a direct rail link, so the exporter switches.

Thinking all Indian ports are run by the government

State and private ports handle a large and growing share of cargo.

Key takeaways

India has around 12 central major ports and many state and private ports.
The Major Port Authorities Act, 2021 gave major ports more autonomy.
Private ports like Mundra grew fast.
Competition improved efficiency.