Reducing Dependence on Foreign through the Development of Domestic Infrastructure: Vizhinjam Port as India's Future Trans-Shipment Hub

The maritime sector has been an important contributor to India’s international trade with more than 90 per cent of the trade volume being transported through sea routes. Despite the strong geographic advantage of India, the country remains heavily dependent on foreign ports for its trans-shipment activities. Therefore, higher logistics costs, longer delivery times and strategic risks that affect trade efficiency and competitiveness are the outcomes of this dependence on foreign ports. This looks at the main reasons why India depends on foreign ports like Colombo, Singapore and Jebel Ali. It explains reasons like constraints of port capacity, deep draft facilities, congestion, slow procedures and weak connectivity that have prevented Indian ports to become major transshipment hubs. The study also highlights the potential of Vizhinjam International Seaport. With its location as a modern deep-water port at the doorway to major international shipping lanes, Vizhinjam can accommodate big container ships and pull in cargo that now passes through foreign ports. This can help India build its own maritime network. The research, through comparative analysis and available data, indicates that building domestic transshipment facilities can contribute to lowering logistics costs, saving time, increasing cargo handling within India, creating employment opportunities, and generating more revenue. It also highlights the strategic benefits like enhanced supply chain security, reduced dependence on foreign countries, and a stronger position for India in the Indian Ocean trading region.