Prime Minister Narendra Modi addressed the inauguration of the Tuticorin International Container Terminal in Tamil Nadu today via video message. Describing the terminal as a “new star of India’s marine infrastructure,” PM Modi emphasized its significance in enhancing the capacity of the V.O. Chidambaranar Port and supporting India’s journey towards becoming a developed nation.
The Prime Minister highlighted the technical capabilities of the new terminal, noting its deep draft of over 14 meters and a 300-meter-long berth. He stated that this facility would play a crucial role in reducing logistics costs and saving foreign exchange for India. Additionally, Modi praised the terminal’s commitment to gender diversity, with 40% of its workforce being women, reflecting women-led development in the maritime sector.
During his address, the Prime Minister acknowledged Tamil Nadu’s importance in India’s economic growth, citing its three major ports and seventeen non-major ports as vital hubs for maritime trade. He also mentioned the government’s investment of over ₹7,000 crore in developing an Outer Harbour Container Terminal to further bolster port-led development in the state.
“V.O.C. Port is ready to write a new chapter in India’s maritime development,” Modi said, while also pointing to the port’s recognition as a Green Hydrogen hub and a nodal point for offshore wind energy, highlighting India’s efforts to combat climate change.
PM Modi stressed the importance of innovation and collaboration in India’s development journey, stating that the country is now well-connected through a vast network of roadways, highways, waterways, and airways. This connectivity, he noted, positions India as a key player in the global supply chain.