Workshop Organized by Infrastructure Finance Secretariat Focuses on PPP Project Structuring in Ports Sector

New Delhi: The Infrastructure Finance Secretariat (IFS), under the Department of Economic Affairs (DEA) of the Ministry of Finance (MoF), conducted a two-day hybrid workshop on 14th-15th March, 2024, in New Delhi, aimed at sensitizing stakeholders from the Ports sector on structuring Public-Private Partnership (PPP) projects using a web-based toolkit.

The workshop witnessed the participation of more than 45 representatives from various sectors, including Centre and State/UT Government departments, private players, and major ports authorities.

Recognizing the complexity involved in the Ports sector, the workshop emphasized the importance of proper project structuring. To address this need, the ‘PPP Structuring Toolkit’ initiative was launched by IFS to support Project Sponsoring Authorities (PSAs) and other stakeholders in structuring Port projects in PPP mode, thereby boosting private sector investment in the country’s ports sector.

This workshop, the fourth in a series dedicated to the Ports Sector, was inaugurated by Ms. Preeti Jain, Director, Infrastructure Support & Development (ISD) Division, DEA, MoF. Ms. Jain underscored the significance of infrastructure development in propelling India towards higher growth and urged participants to actively engage in structuring PPP projects in the Ports sector.

The workshop comprised sessions on demonstrating the toolkit, including hands-on sessions to understand the tools developed for evaluating projects in the Ports sector. Participants gained insights into the toolkit’s overview and objectives through practical case studies, focusing on its five integral tools: Suitability Filter, Family Indicator Tool, Mode Validation Tool, Financial Viability Indicator, Value for Money Indicator tool.

Additionally, IFS showcased the ‘Contingent Liability Toolkit’, providing PSAs with a practical approach to estimating probable pay-outs due to various contingencies.

The workshop received active participation from officials representing Central Ministries/Departments, various State/UT Governments, and major ports’ authorities. It provided a platform for stakeholders to enhance their understanding of PPP project structuring in the Ports sector, contributing to the development of robust infrastructure in the country.