In a major step towards self-reliance and trade security, India today marked the Bhoomi Poojan of its first indigenously developed Drive-Through Cargo Scanner (ICS) at Jawaharlal Nehru Custom House (JNCH), Nhava Sheva. The project, jointly developed by the Bhabha Atomic Research Centre (BARC) and JNCH under the Central Board of Indirect Taxes and Customs (CBIC), represents a milestone in the government’s Atmanirbhar Bharat initiative.
The ceremony was attended by senior dignitaries, including Special Secretary & Member, CBIC, Shri Yogendra Garg, who served as Chief Guest, Chief Commissioner of Customs, Mumbai Zone-II, Shri Vimal Kumar Srivastava, Chairman, JNPA, Shri Unmesh Sharad Wagh, and Director (BTDG), BARC, Shri Martin Mascarenhas.
Speaking at the event, Shri Garg emphasized that the occasion was not just about breaking ground but “laying the foundation for a stronger, self-reliant and secure India.” He highlighted that the ICS, equipped with dual X-ray technology, artificial intelligence (AI), and machine learning (ML), will be capable of scanning up to 80 containers per hour, revolutionizing port operations by enhancing security, efficiency, and transparency.
Shri Srivastava noted that the system’s four-fold capacity boost over existing scanners will transform cargo inspections into “a catalyst for efficiency.” He added that its seamless integration with risk management systems, AI, ML, and optical character recognition (OCR) will reduce dwell time, cut costs, and strengthen India’s fight against smuggling.
Shri Mascarenhas underscored BARC’s contribution, explaining how fundamental accelerator research has evolved into world-class cargo scanning technology, demonstrating India’s ability to develop cutting-edge national security solutions.
Developed under a Memorandum of Understanding between BARC and JNCH, the ICS uses dual-energy X-ray technology with AI/ML to ensure accurate material discrimination. With a throughput of 60–80 trucks per hour, the system meets global standards for image quality and will integrate with CBIC’s Risk Management System (RMS) and platforms such as ICEGATE for real-time data sharing and expedited customs clearance.
The ICS is expected to cut dwell times, reduce operational costs by up to 50%, and minimize manpower needs through automated threat detection. Senior officials from CBIC, DRI, DGGI, NCTC, CISF, DG Shipping, state police, and representatives from partner government agencies, as well as trade stakeholders, were present at the event.
Officials said the initiative will serve as a cornerstone of Make in India and Ease of Doing Business, with plans to deploy similar systems across Indian ports in line with the vision of a Viksit Bharat by 2047.
