Sarbananda Sonowal Unveils 'One Nation-One Port' Initiative

Sarbananda Sonowal Unveils ‘One Nation-One Port’ Initiative

In a major step towards enhancing India’s maritime infrastructure, the Union Ministry of Ports, Shipping, and Waterways (MoPSW) has introduced a series of transformative initiatives aimed at modernizing the sector, strengthening global trade, and promoting sustainability.

Sumit Arora Last updated on March 3rd, 2025 11:31 am

In a major step towards enhancing India’s maritime infrastructure, the Union Ministry of Ports, Shipping, and Waterways (MoPSW) has introduced a series of transformative initiatives aimed at modernizing the sector, strengthening global trade, and promoting sustainability. Among the key announcements is the launch of ‘One Nation: One Port Process’ (ONOP), a pioneering effort designed to standardize and streamline port operations across the country.

The initiatives were unveiled by Ports, Shipping, and Waterways Minister Sarbananda Sonowal during a stakeholders’ meeting that focused on key takeaways from the Union Budget 2025-26 for the maritime sector. These measures are expected to play a vital role in making India a global maritime powerhouse while aligning with the vision of Atmanirbhar Bharat and a Developed India by 2047.

One Nation: One Port Process (ONOP) – Transforming India’s Port Ecosystem

The ONOP initiative has been launched with the objective of eliminating inconsistencies in documentation and processes across India’s major ports. Standardizing port operations is crucial for reducing inefficiencies, cutting costs, and eliminating operational delays. By implementing a uniform port process, India aims to enhance the ease of doing business and facilitate seamless trade activities.

Key Objectives of ONOP

Standardization of Processes: Uniform operational procedures across all major ports.
Reduction in Costs: Minimizing logistics expenses by removing redundant documentation.
Operational Efficiency: Enhancing speed and accuracy in port-related activities.
Boost to Global Trade: Strengthening India’s position as a leading maritime hub.
Improved Transparency: Digitization and automation for a seamless paperless system.

By ensuring a harmonized port system, ONOP is set to reduce bottlenecks in cargo handling, accelerate clearance procedures, and boost overall productivity.

Sagar Ankalan – The Logistics Port Performance Index (LPPI) 2023-24

Alongside ONOP, Sarbananda Sonowal also launched Sagar Ankalan, which includes the Logistics Port Performance Index (LPPI) for 2023-24. This index serves as a benchmarking tool to assess and improve port efficiency, competitiveness, and logistics performance in India’s maritime sector.

Key Highlights of LPPI

Evaluation of Port Performance: Identifies top-performing and underperforming ports.
Global Competitiveness: Positions Indian ports in the international logistics landscape.
Efficiency Improvement: Focuses on reducing turnaround time and cost of logistics.
Sustainability Metrics: Monitors the carbon footprint and green practices adopted by ports.

The LPPI Index is expected to encourage competition among ports to enhance service quality, making India’s maritime infrastructure more robust and globally competitive.

Bharat Global Ports Consortium – Strengthening India’s Maritime Reach

To further expand India’s footprint in the global maritime trade, the government has also announced the launch of the Bharat Global Ports Consortium. This initiative aims at fostering international collaborations and enhancing bilateral trade relations.

Key Benefits of Bharat Global Ports Consortium

Expansion of India’s Maritime Influence – Strengthening port-to-port connectivity with major global ports.
Trade and Investment Opportunities – Attracting foreign direct investment (FDI) in port infrastructure.
Collaboration with Global Players – Encouraging partnerships with international port authorities.
Improved Port Infrastructure – Developing world-class smart, green, and digital ports.

This move will provide India with strategic advantages in global shipping routes, boosting exports and maritime trade.

Key Focus Areas for the Future

Smart Ports: Implementing AI and blockchain for automation in port operations.
Green Energy Adoption: Shifting towards renewable energy sources for port functioning.
Maritime Security Enhancement: Strengthening coastal surveillance and cyber-security measures.
Digitalization: Introducing electronic bills of lading and AI-powered tracking systems.

These initiatives align with the government’s larger goal of ‘Port-Led Development’, a key aspect of the Sagarmala Project, which aims to revolutionize India’s maritime trade landscape.

Here’s the updated version with the first column renamed to Aspects and the second column as Category:

Aspects	Category
Why in News?	The Union Ministry of Ports, Shipping, and Waterways (MoPSW) launched the ‘One Nation: One Port Process’ (ONOP) and other initiatives to modernize India’s maritime sector.
Key Initiatives	1. One Nation: One Port Process (ONOP) – Standardizing port operations across India. 2. Sagar Ankalan – LPPI 2023-24 – A logistics performance index for ports. 3. Bharat Global Ports Consortium – Strengthening India’s global maritime trade.
Objectives of ONOP	– Standardization of processes across ports. – Reduction in logistics costs and inefficiencies. – Enhancing operational efficiency and transparency. – Boosting India’s global maritime trade position.
LPPI Highlights	– Evaluates port performance. – Improves efficiency and reduces turnaround time. – Focuses on sustainability and green practices.
Bharat Global Ports Consortium	– Strengthening global port connectivity. – Attracting foreign investments in port infrastructure. – Enhancing trade and collaborations with international port authorities.
Future Focus Areas	– Implementing AI and blockchain for smart ports. – Promoting renewable energy in port operations. – Strengthening maritime security and digitalization.
Government Vision	Aligning with ‘Atmanirbhar Bharat’ and ‘Viksit Bharat 2047’ to position India as a leading global maritime hub.