PM says it will boost Kerala’s economy and reduce India’s reliance on foreign transshipment hubs
Prime Minister Narendra Modi officially commissioned the Vizhinjam International Seaport in Kerala on Friday, a landmark development for India’s maritime infrastructure.
The ₹8,867-crore deep-sea transshipment port, located in the Thiruvananthapuram district, is expected to position India as a major global shipping and logistics hub, reducing dependency on foreign ports and significantly enhancing the country’s trade capabilities.
In his address during the inauguration ceremony, PM Modi emphasized that the new port will bring economic stability and long-term growth to Kerala and India. He said that Vizhinjam’s strategic location and design—capable of handling large cargo ships—will revolutionize India’s port logistics and transshipment operations.
Transforming India’s Maritime Trade Landscape
“India has long relied on foreign ports for nearly 75% of its transshipment, resulting in massive revenue outflow,” said PM Modi. “With Vizhinjam Port now operational, this is poised to change. Funds previously spent abroad will now circulate within India, driving domestic development, employment, and prosperity, especially for Kerala.”
Modi added that the port’s transshipment capacity is set to triple, and that it is a critical step in strengthening India’s maritime economy. He highlighted that India is already among the top three nations globally in terms of the number of seafarers, and that in the last 10 years, the capacity of Indian ports has doubled, with turnaround times improving by 30%.
A Political Message with Maritime Pride
Sharing the stage with Kerala Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan, Congress MP Shashi Tharoor, and Adani Group chairman Gautam Adani, PM Modi remarked that such a development might give “sleepless nights” to some political opponents, a statement that drew attention and chuckles. Though the translator missed the nuance in his speech, Modi said, “The message has gone across to whom it was meant.”
He further added humorously that the people of Gujarat, his home state, might be disappointed in Gautam Adani for building such a monumental port in Kerala instead.
Vizhinjam Port: A Symbol of PPP and Economic Integration
Developed under a public-private partnership (PPP) between the Government of Kerala and Adani Ports and Special Economic Zone Ltd (APSEZ), the Vizhinjam International Seaport is India’s first deep-water transshipment terminal with natural depth and minimal dredging requirements.
The project, after a successful trial run, received its commercial commissioning certificate on December 4, 2024. Today’s formal inauguration marks the operational beginning of a facility that aims to transform India’s maritime logistics and reduce freight costs.
Kerala’s Historical Significance in Maritime Trade
PM Modi also invoked India’s rich maritime history, pointing out that Kerala has always been central to India’s prosperity in port-based trade. “In the pre-colonial era, India held a significant share of the global GDP due to its thriving port cities,” he said. “What set us apart was our maritime strength, and with Vizhinjam, we are returning to that legacy.”
He praised the collaborative effort, stating that even Kerala’s Ports Minister V. N. Vasavan’s acknowledgment of Adani Group as a partner shows how India is evolving in its development narrative, with governments and businesses working hand in hand for national progress.
A Vision for India’s Port-Led Development
Highlighting the port-led development strategy under the Sagarmala Programme, the Prime Minister stated that infrastructure development combined with an improved ease of doing business has been a guiding principle for the government over the past decade. This approach has propelled industrial growth, coastal connectivity, and holistic regional development.
Key Highlights:
Vizhinjam Seaport commissioned by PM Narendra Modi in Kerala
Built at an estimated cost of ₹8,867 crore by Adani Ports under PPP
Expected to significantly reduce India’s reliance on foreign ports
Transshipment capacity to triple, with potential for large cargo ships
Boosts economic opportunities and job creation in Kerala
