PM Modi Inaugurates ₹1100 Crore Projects at Deendayal Port- Kandla, Pushing India’s Maritime and Green Energy Ambitions
Bhuj, Kachchh | May 27, 2025 —
In a major boost to India’s maritime infrastructure and clean energy aspirations, Prime Minister Narendra Modi virtually inaugurated and laid the foundation stone for several key projects at the Deendayal Port Authority (DPA), Kandla, during a high-profile event held in Bhuj, Kachchh. The combined investment in these transformative initiatives exceeds ₹1,100 crore, marking a significant step in India’s journey toward economic growth powered by sustainable development.
The ceremony was attended by senior government officials, state leaders, maritime industry stakeholders, and energy sector representatives. The projects aim to expand operational capabilities, modernize infrastructure, and establish Deendayal Port as a beacon of environmental stewardship and technological advancement.
A Strategic Leap for India’s Maritime Power
Deendayal Port, formerly known as Kandla Port, is one of India’s most vital maritime gateways located along the western coast. The new projects are part of a broader national strategy to elevate India’s port infrastructure to international standards while embedding sustainability at its core. Among the developments inaugurated or initiated are the modernization of cargo handling systems, improvements in multimodal connectivity, and the integration of advanced digital technologies for port management.
These improvements are expected to significantly increase the port’s cargo handling capacity, reduce turnaround time for vessels, and attract higher volumes of international and domestic trade. Furthermore, by improving the logistical ecosystem around the port, the government hopes to stimulate regional economic activity, create employment, and position the Kachchh region as a key node in India’s economic corridor.
Green Hydrogen Hub: Pioneering Clean Energy
One of the most groundbreaking aspects of today’s announcement is the designation of Deendayal Port as one of India’s three major ‘Green Hydrogen Hubs’ under the National Green Hydrogen Mission. This ambitious initiative aims to transform India into a global leader in green hydrogen production, consumption, and export, leveraging its vast renewable energy potential.
As part of this mission, Deendayal Port will play a critical role in developing infrastructure for green hydrogen storage, transportation, and export. These facilities will be supported by clean energy sources such as solar and wind power, enabling a carbon-neutral supply chain that supports India’s climate goals and its commitment to net-zero emissions by 2070.
The port’s future role in green hydrogen logistics is also expected to attract significant foreign and domestic investment in associated industries such as electrolyzer manufacturing, renewable power generation, and green fuel export logistics.
Transforming Vision into Reality
In his address, Prime Minister Modi emphasized the strategic importance of ports like Deendayal in realizing the vision of a “Viksit Bharat by 2047”—a developed India powered by innovation, sustainability, and inclusive economic growth.
“The projects launched today are not just infrastructure upgrades—they are symbols of India’s forward-looking commitment to building a greener, stronger, and globally competitive economy,” said the Prime Minister. “We are not only enhancing our capacity to trade but also ensuring that our growth does not come at the cost of our environment.”
Modi also highlighted the alignment of these port development efforts with broader national priorities such as the Gati Shakti Mission and the Maritime India Vision 2030, both of which emphasize integrated development, multimodal logistics, and environmental responsibility.
Regional and National Impact
Beyond boosting maritime trade and energy security, the new projects are expected to have a multiplier effect on the regional economy. Improved port operations and better connectivity will spur the development of industrial clusters, logistics parks, and new business opportunities in Gujarat and beyond.
Local leaders hailed the announcement as a transformative moment for Kachchh, which has historically played a key role in India’s trade networks. The infusion of infrastructure and green energy projects is expected to create thousands of direct and indirect jobs, improve livelihood opportunities, and attract long-term investment into the region.
Looking Ahead
With these strategic developments, Deendayal Port Authority is set to emerge not only as a critical logistics hub but also as a model for sustainable port development in the global south. As India navigates a complex global economic landscape, infrastructure investments such as these reaffirm the country’s determination to lead with resilience, innovation, and responsibility.
As Prime Minister Modi concluded, “Today’s foundation is tomorrow’s future. Through these projects, we are laying the groundwork for a developed India that leads the world in both economic strength and environmental responsibility.”
