India’s major ports handled 915.17 million tonnes of cargo during FY26, exceeding annual targets and reaffirming the country’s growing maritime strength, according to Union Minister for Ports, Shipping and Waterways Sarbananda Sonowal. The performance reflects continued gains in cargo efficiency, infrastructure upgrades and stronger trade-linked demand across key gateways.
The minister said the milestone highlights the success of ongoing modernization initiatives under the Maritime Amrit Kaal Vision 2047 and Sagarmala programme. Increased mechanization, deeper drafts, improved turnaround times and enhanced multimodal connectivity have helped major ports raise productivity and competitiveness.
Cargo growth was supported by higher volumes of containers, petroleum products, coal, fertilizers and other bulk commodities. Several ports also reported improved vessel handling metrics and stronger operational resilience amid shifting global supply chain conditions.
Sonowal noted that continued investments in port-led industrialization, green shipping initiatives and digital systems will further strengthen India’s logistics ecosystem. The government aims to position Indian ports among the world’s most efficient and sustainable maritime hubs while supporting export growth and domestic manufacturing.