India's Ministry of Ports, Shipping and Waterways launched several major maritime initiatives on February 28, 2025, aimed at modernizing infrastructure and enhancing global trade efficiency [1][2].

The centerpiece 'One Nation, One Port Process' (ONOP) initiative will standardize operations across India's major ports, significantly reducing documentation requirements. Container operation documents have been reduced by 33% (from 143 to 96) and bulk cargo documents by 29% (from 150 to 106) [1].

Union Minister Sarbananda Sonowal also introduced the Sagar Ankalan Logistics Port Performance Index (LPPI) for FY 2023-24, which will evaluate both major and non-major ports on key metrics including cargo handling, turnaround time, and berth efficiency [2].

"With the launch of 'One Nation-One Port' Process and Sagar Ankalan-LPPI Index, India is taking a decisive step towards standardised, efficient, and globally competitive ports," said Minister Sonowal [3].

The initiatives include the launch of the Bharat Global Ports Consortium, combining the expertise of India Ports Global (operations), Sagar Mala Development Company (finance), and India Port Rail and Ropeway Corporation (infrastructure) [3].

Additionally, the MAITRI (Master Application for International Trade and Regulatory Interface) platform was introduced to streamline trade processes and reduce bureaucratic redundancies. The system will initially operate between India and the UAE, with plans to expand to BIMSTEC and ASEAN nations [4].

The ministry also announced the India Maritime Week, scheduled for October 27-31, 2025, in Mumbai, expecting participation from 100 countries and 100,000 delegates [1].