New Delhi [India], August 24 (ANI): Union Minister of Ports, Shipping and Waterways Sarbananda Sonowal on Monday hailed the commencement of direct Export-Import (EXIM) operations at the Vizhinjam International Seaport, declaring that the port is carrying out its operations successfully and has become a crucial transhipment hub in the country.
Speaking to ANI, the Union Minister further stated that Vizhinjam Port will add new dimensions to the country's overall growth in the near future.
"It will be good. Vizhinjam Port is operating successfully, and I believe it has become a crucial transshipment hub that will add new dimensions to the country's overall growth in the near future," said Union Minister Sarbananda Sonowal.
The Union Minister further stated that India's port sector has undergone a remarkable transformation over the past 12 years under the leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi.
"Thanks to the powerful leadership and vision of our Prime Minister Narendra Modi, the port sector has undergone remarkable transformation over the past 12 years, and we have achieved notable success across every vertical. The World Bank's Logistics Performance Index report also confirms this. I have often stated in the media that the development taking place today, which has propelled India to become the world's third-largest economy, is driven by the "Reform, Perform, Transform" mantra given to us by the Prime Minister..." emphasised Union Minister Sarbananda Sonowal.
The Union Minister's remarks came after full-scale export-import (EXIM) operations began at the Vizhinjam International Seaport on Tuesday, August 18.
Speaking at the launch event, Chief Minister VD Satheesan highlighted the deep-water facility as a transformative asset capable of serving as a global gateway for local products and driving broader economic growth.
"Vizhinjam is Kerala's gateway to the world. The challenge before us is to make the port a catalyst for the growth of Kerala and the country," said Satheesan.
The Chief Minister outlined an ambitious vision to leverage the seaport for direct international exports of traditional Kerala goods, including spices, cashew, coir, and handloom products.
To support this maritime expansion, Satheesan announced 'Mission Samudra', a strategic initiative designed to integrate Kerala's long coastline, 18 minor ports, and key container terminals with private investment.
The initiative aims to transition 50 to 60 per cent of state cargo movement to waterways, connecting coastal hubs like Kasaragod, Kochi, and Thiruvananthapuram with regional trade routes such as Dubai and Goa.
Union Minister for Ports, Shipping and Waterways Sarbananda Sonowal attended the ceremony as chief guest, alongside Kerala Industries Minister PK Kunhalikutty and local MLA M Vincent. (ANI)
"Vizhinjam Port operating successfully:" Union Minister Sarbananda Sonowal on commencement of EXIM operations at Vizhinjam Port
