Model Answer

Landlord Ports

A landlord port is a management model where a public port authority serves as a landlord, overseeing infrastructure and regulations, while private companies handle port operations, such as cargo handling. India is transitioning its major ports to this model under the Maritime India Vision (MIV) 2030, with plans for 39 berths to adopt it.

Key Contributions of Landlord Ports

1. Streamlined Governance

• By separating the landlord and operational roles, this model removes the conflict of interest inherent in the earlier system.
• It promotes independent and efficient oversight while fostering fair competition among private terminal operators.

2. Enhanced Operational Connectivity

• Private global companies bring extensive networks, improving interconnectivity across supply chains.
• Example: DP World linked JNPT to global shipping lines and inland logistics hubs.

3. Technological Advancements

• Private operators introduce advanced technologies, enhancing productivity and reducing operational costs.
• Example: Automated Guided Vehicles implemented by private players boost container handling capacities.

4. Improved Service Quality

• Competition among private entities drives innovation, efficiency, and customer satisfaction.
• Example: JNPT’s 100% landlord model spurred competition among private container operators, resulting in superior services.

5. Increased Investments

• The model encourages private sector participation, unlocking investments in port infrastructure.
• Example: MIV 2030 anticipates investments of ₹1,00,000–₹1,25,000 crores for capacity expansion.

Challenges and the Way Forward

• Coordination Issues: Diverse technologies used by private players may lead to integration challenges.
• Cybersecurity Concerns: Increased private participation necessitates robust cybersecurity frameworks.

Despite these challenges, the landlord port model, with its focus on private investment and operational excellence under government oversight, is poised to enhance India’s port efficiency, bolstering trade competitiveness and economic growth.

Model Answer

Introduction

The expansion of existing airports and development of new ones in India can provide numerous advantages beyond just enhancing travel connectivity. Here are the key benefits:

1. Employment Opportunities

Expanding airport infrastructure leads to a significant increase in employment across various sectors. This includes direct jobs in aviation, ground staff, engineering, and managerial positions. The air transport sector supports 6.2 million jobs in India, with 2.5 lakh jobs in aviation and aeronautical manufacturing alone.

2. Economic Growth

The aviation sector plays a pivotal role in driving economic growth. By facilitating trade, tourism, and attracting investments, airports contribute significantly to GDP. According to the International Air Transport Association, the air transport industry supports an estimated US $13 billion in India’s GDP.

3. Technological Advancements

Airport expansions often involve the integration of advanced technologies that improve efficiency, safety, and the passenger experience. A notable example is the introduction of DIGIYATRA in 13 Indian airports, which has streamlined the boarding process for passengers.

4. Support for Remote Communities

Airports in remote areas provide vital services, including healthcare access and postal services. The UDAN 5.1 scheme, for instance, plans to enhance connectivity to remote regions, including through helicopter services, improving the quality of life for residents.

5. Attraction of Foreign Tourists and Investment

Airports make regions more attractive for multinational companies and foreign tourists, thus fostering foreign direct investment (FDI). In 2022, international visitors spent USD 22.9 billion in India, showcasing the positive impact of improved connectivity on tourism and investment.

6. Social Integration

Improved air connectivity promotes social integration by making travel more accessible, facilitating cultural exchange, and enhancing mutual understanding among different regions of the country.

7. Humanitarian Aid and Disaster Relief

Airports play a crucial role in rapid disaster response by enabling the swift deployment of humanitarian aid and emergency personnel during natural disasters.

In conclusion, airport expansion in India not only enhances connectivity but also supports employment, economic growth, technological innovation, social integration, and disaster relief efforts. However, it is essential to focus on affordability, as air travel remains out of reach for many citizens.

Model Answer

Prospects of Inland Waterways in India

1. Reduction in Transportation Cost: Inland waterways offer a cost-effective alternative to road and rail transport. According to a study, one liter of fuel can move 24 tons of cargo for 1 km on roads, 95 km on rail, and 215 km on inland waterways, highlighting the cost-effectiveness of water transport.
2. Environmentally Friendly: Waterways reduce road congestion and vehicular pollution by transporting goods across rivers and canals, easing the burden on highways. This shift not only benefits the environment but also enhances road safety.
3. Boost Economic Integration: Integrating inland waterways with national projects like the Dedicated Freight Corridors (DFCs) and the Sagarmala Project facilitates the smooth exchange of goods across transport modes. This connectivity can stimulate economic growth by connecting remote regions, such as the North-Eastern states, to global trade routes. The Kaladan Multi-Modal Project is a notable example, offering a more efficient route to the region.
4. Multiplier Effect and Linkages: Investment in inland waterways fosters growth across sectors, including port development, boat-building, and ancillary industries, creating jobs and enhancing regional development.

Challenges of Inland Waterways in India

1. Lack of Continuous Connectivity: While the waterway network spans across 15,000 km, it lacks continuous connectivity. For instance, in 2018, a cargo vessel got stuck near Ramrekha Ghat in Bihar due to shallow waters, highlighting the inconsistent navigability of certain routes.
2. Inadequate Water Channel Depth: Many national waterways suffer from insufficient depth, especially due to siltation and seasonal variations, making them unsuitable for large vessels. Approximately 20 out of the 111 identified waterways are deemed unviable for regular use.
3. High Turnaround Time: The absence of efficient material handling equipment and inadequate terminal facilities at key ports results in slow cargo evacuation, leading to congestion and high turnaround times.

In conclusion, while inland waterways have substantial potential in reducing costs and enhancing economic integration, addressing connectivity, depth issues, and port infrastructure is crucial for realizing their full potential.