Prime Minister Narendra Modi, via video message, addressed the inauguration of the Tuticorin International Container Terminal in Tamil Nadu today, calling it a pivotal moment in India’s journey towards becoming a developed nation. In his speech, the Prime Minister referred to the newly inaugurated terminal as the “new star of India’s marine infrastructure,” underlining its significance in bolstering the capacity of the V.O. Chidambaranar (V.O.C.) Port.
With a deep draft exceeding 14 meters and a berth spanning over 300 meters, the new terminal is set to play a crucial role in increasing the port’s handling capacity. “This terminal will significantly reduce logistics costs and help save foreign exchange for India,” the Prime Minister said, while expressing satisfaction over the rapid completion of the project. He also congratulated the people of Tamil Nadu and acknowledged the many initiatives launched at V.O.C. Port during his visit two years ago.
One of the key highlights of the new terminal is its focus on gender diversity. Prime Minister Modi proudly noted that 40% of the terminal’s employees are women, symbolising progress in women-led development within India’s maritime sector.
During his address, the Prime Minister praised Tamil Nadu’s coastline for its role in driving India’s economic growth, noting that the state boasts three major ports and seventeen non-major ports, making it a central hub for maritime trade. He revealed that over ₹7,000 crore has been allocated for the development of an Outer Harbour Container Terminal, further augmenting the port’s capacity.
“The V.O.C. Port is ready to write a new chapter in the maritime development of India,” Modi declared. He stressed that the port is not only enhancing infrastructure but also playing a role in India’s broader vision for sustainable development, becoming a Green Hydrogen hub and a nodal port for offshore wind energy.
The Prime Minister emphasised that India is charting a path towards sustainable and forward-thinking development. He reiterated the importance of innovation and collaboration in India’s growth journey, pointing to the port’s inauguration as a collective achievement.
Modi also spoke about India’s extensive network of roadways, highways, waterways, and airways, which are connecting the nation to global markets. “India is becoming a major stakeholder in the global supply chain, and this growing capacity is the foundation of our economic growth,” he said.
Concluding his address, the Prime Minister expressed confidence in India’s economic momentum and predicted that the country would soon emerge as the world’s third-largest economy. He highlighted Tamil Nadu’s critical role in driving this growth and affirmed the state’s continued importance in India’s maritime and economic future.
The Tuticorin International Container Terminal is now poised to enhance India’s global trade capabilities, while also reflecting the nation’s commitment to inclusive, sustainable, and forward-looking development.
