THEBUSINESSBYTES BUREAU

PARADIP, OCTOBER 4, 2026

NITI Aayog Vice Chairperson Dr. Ashok Kumar Lahiri has called for continued expansion and modernisation of Paradip Port Authority (PPA), while lauding its diversified berths, modern infrastructure and navigational draft of over 16.5 metres as assets of enduring national value.

Dr. Lahiri, who visited PPA during his official tour of Odisha, said he was “very proud” of the Port’s performance and development initiatives. He noted that about 13 ships, on average, arrive at and depart from Paradip Port every day, underlining its growing significance in India’s maritime and logistics network.

Describing modern infrastructure such as that at Paradip as “the modern Taj Mahals” that would remain as a legacy for the country, Dr. Lahiri said the Port’s ongoing expansion and modernisation plans would further strengthen its strategic importance. He also expressed his happiness at having the opportunity to witness the Port’s operations firsthand.

Dr. Lahiri was received at Bhubaneswar airport by Ashoka Kumar Sahu, Financial Adviser and Chief Accounts Officer of PPA. He later arrived by helicopter at the Gopabandhu Stadium helipad in Paradip, where T. Venu Gopal, Deputy Chairperson, PPA, received him. A Guard of Honour was presented by the CISF, Unit Paradip, at the Wet Basin.

During a launch ride through the harbour, Dr. Lahiri witnessed the Port’s maritime operations, vessel movements and cargo-handling activities. Senior PPA officials subsequently briefed him on the Port’s cargo-handling capabilities, mechanised systems, operational efficiency and overall maritime operations.

The officials highlighted Paradip’s emergence as a leading mega port on India’s east coast and outlined its future development roadmap. The plans include capacity augmentation, infrastructure expansion, improved logistics efficiency, multimodal connectivity and new development initiatives aimed at supporting the Port’s long-term growth.

The visit assumes significance as Paradip Port continues to consolidate its position in the country’s maritime trade and logistics ecosystem. Its expanding infrastructure and mechanised cargo-handling facilities are expected to play a key role in supporting the coastal economy and strengthening India’s trade connectivity.

Sundara Madhaba Padhi, Chief Operating Officer, Odisha Maritime Board, and Professor Prabhakar Sahu, Programme Director, Economics and Finance and Nodal Officer, NITI Aayog, Odisha, were also present.

The Paradip Port Authority said it remained committed to strengthening India’s maritime trade, coastal economy and logistics ecosystem and contributing to the country’s economic growth and the vision of Viksit Bharat.