Odisha's Bold Maritime Strategy: Aiming for Global Trade Dominance

Odisha is making significant advancements in its maritime sector, focusing on modernizing ports and enhancing trade connectivity. With strategic initiatives led by the Odisha Maritime Board, the state aims to create robust economic ecosystems that drive growth and prosperity. Recent developments include substantial investments in port infrastructure and training programs, which promise to generate thousands of jobs. This article explores the ambitious plans and their potential impact on Odisha's economy and global trade positioning.

By Narendra Chaudhary Jul 28, 2025, 10:10 IST

Transforming Odisha's Maritime Landscape

Bhubaneswar: Odisha is taking significant steps to enhance its maritime sector through a forward-thinking, policy-oriented approach. The Odisha Maritime Board, in collaboration with the Commerce & Transport department, is dedicated to modernizing and expanding essential ports. These efforts are designed to create robust port-linked economic ecosystems that will foster long-term growth and prosperity along the coast. The state's maritime trade and logistics framework is gaining traction on both domestic and international fronts.

Currently, non-major ports in Odisha have a total cargo handling capacity of 80 million tonnes per annum (MTPA). In the fiscal year 2024-25, Dhamra Port processed 46.08 MTPA, while Gopalpur Port accounted for 6 MTPA, generating a notable state revenue of ₹306.15 crore. Paradip Port Authority continues to lead as India's premier major port, managing 150.41 MTPA of cargo during the same timeframe. The adoption of cutting-edge port technologies and the development of deeper berths are paving the way for new trade opportunities, industrial growth, and regional integration.

On the international front, enhanced connectivity via Dhamra and Gopalpur ports has positioned Odisha as a vital center for global trade, improving export-import relationships and market accessibility. Domestically, the focus on optimizing coastal shipping routes and feeder services has bolstered connections to industrial and agricultural hubs, ensuring efficient last-mile delivery of products. A recent concession agreement with JSW Utkal Steel Limited for a dedicated jetty to support its Integrated Steel Plant underscores the state's commitment to fostering industrial expansion through specialized maritime infrastructure. This project is expected to attract an investment of ₹2,104 crore and create approximately 3,450 jobs, both directly and indirectly. Additionally, the concession agreement with Gopalpur Ports Ltd. has been updated to reflect a 95% equity share transfer to Adani Ports & SEZ, which will bring in an investment of ₹16,554 crore and generate around 5,000 jobs.

These initiatives highlight Odisha's comprehensive approach to economic and strategic development by leveraging its coastal resources. The state's maritime strategy is distinguished by its commitment to sustainability, integrated logistics, and network efficiency, with a strong emphasis on safety and skill enhancement. The innovative focus on multi-modal logistics integration at these ports is enhancing operational efficiency and establishing a foundation for sustainable port development throughout the state.

To bolster maritime training, simulators have been introduced at the Crew Training Institute in Chandbali and the Odisha Maritime Academy, offering practical ship operation training. In a concurrent effort to improve safety in inland water transport, the Directorate of Ports & IWT has distributed around 35,000 life-saving devices—including lifebuoys, life jackets, and fire extinguishers—to boat owners, with a 95% subsidy.