New Delhi: Prime Minister Narendra Modi today inaugurated the Tuticorin International Container Terminal via video message, marking a significant milestone in India’s journey toward becoming a developed nation. The Prime Minister hailed the terminal as the “new star of India’s marine infrastructure” and emphasized its crucial role in expanding the capacity of the V.O. Chidambaranar (V.O.C.) Port.
“With a deep draft of more than 14 meters and a berth over 300 meters long, this terminal will enhance the port’s capacity and reduce logistics costs, while saving foreign exchange for India,” said Modi during his address. He congratulated the people of Tamil Nadu, recalling several projects related to the V.O.C. Port that were initiated during his visit two years ago, and expressed satisfaction with their rapid completion.
One of the key achievements of the new terminal, the Prime Minister noted, is its commitment to gender diversity, with 40% of its workforce being women, a symbol of women-led development in the maritime sector.
Modi also acknowledged the strategic importance of Tamil Nadu’s coastline in driving India’s economic growth. “With three major ports and 17 non-major ports, Tamil Nadu has become a hub for maritime trade,” he said. He added that India is investing over Rs 7,000 crore in developing an Outer Harbour Container Terminal, further boosting the port-led development in the region.
The Prime Minister highlighted that India’s maritime mission goes beyond infrastructure development, pointing out that the V.O.C. Port is being recognized as a Green Hydrogen hub and a nodal port for offshore wind energy, both of which are critical in addressing global climate challenges.
“India is showing the world the path to sustainable and forward-thinking development,” Modi remarked, stressing that innovation and collaboration are key to India’s growth. He emphasized that the nation’s extensive network of roadways, highways, waterways, and airways strengthens its position in global trade, making India a major player in the global supply chain.