Union Minister for Ports, Shipping, and Waterways, Sarbananda Sonowal, on 27th February launched a series of initiatives aimed at modernizing India’s maritime infrastructure and positioning the country as a leader in global trade.
One Nation-One Port Process (ONOP)
- Union Minister Shri Sarbananda Sonowal launched the ‘One Nation-One Port Process (ONOP)’ an initiative to standardise and streamline operations across India’s major ports.
- The step aims at removing inconsistencies in documentation and processes that led to inefficiencies, increased costs, and operational delays.
Sagar Ankalan
- Shri Sarbananda Sonowal also launched Sagar Ankalan — the Logistics Port Performance Index (LPPI) for FY 2023-24, as a significant step towards enhancing efficiency and global competitiveness in India’s maritime sector.
- Aligned with the PM Gati Shakti National Master Plan and the National Logistics Policy, Sagar Ankalan LPPI aims to benchmark port performance, drive operational excellence, and strengthen India’s trade connectivity. Developed under the Sagar Aankalan guidelines, the LPPI evaluates all major and non-major ports under Bulk (Dry & Liquid) and Container categories.
MAITRI logo
- Union Minister Sarbananda Sonowal also launched Bharat Global Ports Consortium to Strengthen global trade by expanding India’s maritime reach and enhance global trade resilience.
- He also launched MAITRI logo (Master Application for International Trade and Regulatory Interface) with an aim to streamline trade processes, reduce bureaucratic redundancies and expedite clearances, reinforcing India’s commitment to ease of doing business.
- MAITRI plays a crucial role in operationalising the ‘Virtual Trade Corridor’(VTC) between India and the UAE.
- The initiative aligns with the India-Middle East-Europe Economic Corridor (IMEEC) and is expected to expand to BIMSTEC and ASEAN nations, leveraging AI and Blockchain for efficiency and security.
- By standardising trade documentation and integrating digital solutions, MAITRI will reduce processing time, optimise trade flows, and contribute to sustainable development. MAITRI is set to redefine international trade, positioning India as a leader in global logistics and trade facilitation.
