Prime Minister Narendra Modi inaugurated the Vizhinjam International Deepwater Multipurpose Seaport in Thiruvananthapuram on Friday, declaring it a major leap forward for trade, commerce, and Kerala’s economic development.
The Prime Minister arrived in the city on Thursday night and reached the port by helicopter on Friday morning to inspect its facilities before the formal launch.
During his address, PM Modi highlighted the strategic importance of the port, stating that it would significantly benefit Kerala and India’s global trade position.
“India once thrived for thousands of years before colonial rule, with port cities like those in Kerala playing a vital role in global GDP,” PM Modi said. “What distinguished India then was its maritime strength, and Vizhinjam now continues that legacy.”
Constructed at an estimated cost of ₹8,900 crore, the Vizhinjam port is India’s first deepwater, container-dedicated transshipment hub.
Developed under a public-private partnership, the project has been executed by Adani Ports and Special Economic Zone Ltd (APSEZ).
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Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan, Governor Rajendra Vishwanath Arlekar, Union Ministers Suresh Prabhu and George Kurien, and Adani Group Chairperson Gautam Adani attended the inauguration ceremony.
Linking the development to international partnerships, PM Modi referred to the India-Middle East-Europe Corridor announced during the G20 Summit.
The Prime Minister stated that Kerala occupies a critical geographical position along this route, promising substantial economic opportunities for the state.
“Private sector participation is essential to elevate India’s maritime sector,” the Prime Minister asserted. “The port not only represents new-age development but also blends natural beauty with global trade potential.”
PM Modi announced that the transshipment hub’s capacity would triple in the coming years, enabling it to receive the world’s largest cargo ships.
He emphasised that 75% of India’s transshipment currently takes place at foreign ports, leading to significant revenue losses.
“This will change,” PM Modi affirmed. “India’s wealth will now serve Indian shores. Kerala and Vizhinjam’s people will directly benefit as we generate new economic opportunities locally.”
Recalling Kerala’s rich maritime past, PM Modi noted that the state historically linked India to global markets through the Arabian Sea.
“Ships from Kerala carried Indian goods across the world,” the Prime Minister said. “Now, we are reviving that strength. Coastal states and port cities will drive India’s path to becoming a developed nation.”
The Prime Minister outlined his government’s ten-year blueprint for port-led development.
PM Modi cited key initiatives such as the Sagarmala Project, PM Gati Shakti, and collaborations with state governments to improve port infrastructure, connectivity, and industrial hubs.
“The full potential of a port economy is realised when infrastructure and ease of doing business go hand-in-hand,” the Prime Minister said.
PM Modi also highlighted India’s progress in shipping and logistics. Since 2014, the number of Indian seafarers has surged from under 1.25 lakh to over 3.25 lakh, placing India among the world’s top three countries in seafaring.
The Prime Minister added that two Indian ports now rank in the global top 30, and India is among the top 20 nations in shipbuilding.
“Ship turnaround time at Indian ports has reduced by 30%, boosting efficiency,” PM Modi. “Today, we handle more cargo in less time, enhancing our competitiveness.”
Looking ahead, PM Modi announced the development of a shipbuilding and repair cluster in Kochi. This initiative, he said, would create numerous job opportunities for Kerala’s youth and boost local manufacturing.
The Prime Minister also referenced the 2024 Union Budget’s new policy to promote large-ship construction in India, which will stimulate growth in MSMEs and entrepreneurship.
Underscoring the state’s overall progress, the Prime Minister noted major infrastructure achievements over the past decade.
Projects such as the Kollam and Alappuzha Bypasses, as well as modern Vande Bharat trains, have significantly improved Kerala’s connectivity.
“True development happens when infrastructure is built, trade expands, and the basic needs of citizens are met,” PM Modi remarked. “Kerala has witnessed rapid growth in ports, highways, railways, and airports over the past 10 years.”
The Vizhinjam Port, located close to one of the busiest international shipping lanes and featuring a natural deep draft of nearly 20 metres, is likely to reduce India’s dependency on foreign ports. Identified as a priority national project, it is expected to enhance India’s trade capacity, logistics efficiency, and economic sovereignty.
Concluding his address, PM Modi expressed full confidence in Kerala’s talent and reaffirmed the Centre’s commitment to working with the state to make India’s maritime sector a global leader.
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