Centre Designates Paradip as Mega Port

Paradip Port was designated as a “Mega Port” on 25 September 2026 under Section 73 of the Indian Ports Act, 2025. The Ministry of Ports, Shipping and Waterways granted the status after an assessment of structural and operational capabilities against prescribed benchmarks.

Mega Port Classification

The “Mega Port” category is a statutory designation under the Indian Ports Act, 2025. Paradip Port became the only port on India’s eastern coast to receive this status.

Other Ports with Mega Port Status

Three other ports also received the same designation. These ports are Deendayal Port in Gujarat, Jawaharlal Nehru Port in Mumbai’s Nhava Sheva, and Mundra Port in Gujarat.

Paradip Port: Cargo Profile and Location

Paradip Port handled 156.45 million tonnes of cargo in fiscal year 2025-26. This was its highest annual throughput and represented a 4.02% increase over the previous year. The port handles bulk cargo such as coal, iron ore, fertilisers, and crude oil, and serves eastern and central India.

Important Facts for Exams

• Paradip Port is located in Odisha and functions as a major maritime gateway on India’s eastern coast.
• Section 73 of the Indian Ports Act, 2025 provides the legal basis for the “Mega Port” designation.
• Deendayal Port is located at Kandla in Gujarat, while Jawaharlal Nehru Port is located at Nhava Sheva in Mumbai.
• Paradip Port Authority is headed by a Chairperson, and Susanta Kumar Purohit held this post on 25 September 2026.

Paradip Port is a key logistics hub for bulk cargo movement in eastern India. The “Mega Port” status is linked to future expansion of trade connectivity and maritime infrastructure.