Vizhinjam Port: The Vizhinjam Port, India’s first dedicated container transshipment port, is a major milestone in the country’s maritime evolution. Situated near one of the busiest global shipping routes, its strategic location and deep draft of nearly 20 meters allow it to accommodate large vessels, boosting India's position as a maritime powerhouse and reshaping global trade dynamics.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi today unveiled the highly anticipated Vizhinjam International Deepwater Multipurpose Seaport in Thiruvananthapuram, Kerala, with a remarkable investment of Rs 8,800 crore. On the auspicious occasion of Shri Adi Shankaracharya’s birth anniversary, he reflected on the spiritual significance of Kerala in India’s heritage and connected it to the region’s bright future with the port’s development.
Located between Kerala’s breathtaking coastline and the vast ocean, the Vizhinjam Port is more than just an infrastructure project—it’s a game-changer for India’s global trade ambitions. PM Modi hailed the port as a symbol of modern growth and economic progress, set to drive jobs, regional development, and strengthen India’s role in global shipping. This new gateway will open up vast opportunities for maritime trade, making India a key player in global trade routes.
Key Highlights from PM Modi’s Address on Vizhinjam Port:
- Vizhinjam Port’s Major Role in India’s Maritime Future: The Vizhinjam Deepwater Seaport marks a significant advancement in India’s maritime infrastructure, enhancing trade and economic growth.
- Tribute to Adi Shankaracharya: On his birth anniversary, PM Modi paid tribute to Adi Shankaracharya, emphasizing his impact on national consciousness and spiritual enlightenment.
- Coastal States Driving Growth: India’s coastal states and port cities will be key growth centers for a Viksit Bharat (Developed India), positioning India as a global maritime hub.
- Sagarmala Project Upgrades: Under the Sagarmala project, port infrastructure has been enhanced, improving port connectivity and boosting India’s maritime economy.
- Faster Connectivity with PM-Gatishakti: The PM-Gatishakti initiative is speeding up inter-connectivity across waterways, railways, highways, and airways for seamless transportation.
Vizhinjam Deep-Water Sea Port: A Game-Changer for India’s Maritime Future
Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi highlighted the immense significance of the Vizhinjam Deep-Water Sea Port, developed at a cost of ₹8,800 crore, as a cornerstone of India’s maritime economy. He emphasized that the port, with its strategic location, will become a major transshipment hub, tripling its capacity in the coming years to accommodate some of the world’s largest cargo ships. This will mark a turning point in India’s port infrastructure, making the nation a dominant player in global shipping routes.
The Prime Minister pointed out a crucial shift in India’s maritime operations, underscoring that until now, 75% of India’s transshipment operations were carried out at foreign ports, resulting in substantial revenue losses for the country. However, with the launch of Vizhinjam Port, India is reclaiming control over its maritime economy. The funds that once left the country will now contribute to Kerala’s economic growth and bring tangible benefits to the local population. By keeping India’s money within the country, the port will create new economic opportunities and strengthen the nation’s position in global trade.
PM Modi Pays Tribute to Pope Francis, Highlights Legacy of Service and Inclusivity at Vizhinjam Port Inauguration
Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi emphasized Kerala’s rich history of harmony and tolerance during his address at the inauguration of the Vizhinjam International Deepwater Multipurpose Seaport. Acknowledging the region’s significance, he pointed out the historic Saint Thomas Church, one of the oldest churches in the world, located in Kerala, underscoring the state’s longstanding role as a melting pot of cultures and traditions.
He also paid tribute to the late Pope Francis, highlighting his legacy of service and inclusivity. Expressing his personal gratitude for their conversations on humanity, peace, and service, PM Modi reflected on how Pope Francis’s spirit will continue to inspire the world. He further extended his condolences to those mourning his loss, especially in Kerala, where the impact of his teachings resonates deeply.
PM Modi shared his vision of Kerala as a major center for global maritime trade, bolstered by the strategic significance of the Vizhinjam Port. He emphasized that this project would generate thousands of new jobs and elevate India’s maritime sector to new heights. The Prime Minister reiterated the Government of India’s commitment to working with Kerala’s state government to enhance the state’s position as a global maritime hub.
The Vizhinjam Port, India’s first dedicated container transshipment port, is set to play a pivotal role in global trade. Situated near one of the world’s busiest maritime routes, its deep draft of nearly 20 meters enables it to handle large vessels, further solidifying India’s position as a major maritime power.
Also Read|China Signals Openness to US Tariff Talks—Could a New US-China Trade Deal Be on the Horizon?
