Coastal shipping is an energy-efficient, environment-friendly and economical mode of transport in the Indian transport network and a crucial component for the development of domestic industry and trade. India, with her 7,517 km long coastline studded with 13 major ports and 200 non-major ports provides congenial and favorable conditions for the development of this alternate mode of transport.

India's Coastal Shipping Tonnage as on 1st June 2008 was 590 vessels with 947734 GRT and 991378 DWT. Action plan for the development of coastal shipping is already on the anvil with the Central Government. With a view to promote coastal shipping and sailing vessel industry, the home trade vessels and sailing vessels have been exempted from the payment of lighthouse dues under the provisions of the Lighthouse Act, 1927. Meanwhile, a study has already been completed by the Tata Consultancy Services (TCS) to assess the potential of coastal shipping and the role of minor ports keeping in view the feasibility of routes and the supporting environment needed for its development. Efforts are being made to develop minor ports, which would, in turn, develop coastal shipping.

Source: http://india.gov.in/