This represents a 4.01% increase compared to the previous year, marking the best performance since the port began operations in 1966.

Despite challenging market conditions, including reduced export demand for iron ore and disruptions in the import of limestone and fertiliser raw materials due to the West Asia crisis, Paradip Port maintained its leading position in cargo handling among both major and non-major ports on India's eastern coast. The port also remained the top-performing bulk port nationally, achieving berth productivity of 35,059 MT per day per berth, nearly twice the national average of approximately 18,000 MT.

This growth was driven by strategic system enhancements and improved operational efficiencies. Coastal cargo handling accounted for 42.06% of total volume, amounting to 65.81 MMT, making Paradip Port the foremost location for coastal shipping among Indian major ports. During the year, the handling of Petroleum, Oil and Lubricants (POL) increased by 25.68%, steel cargo rose by 43%, coal handling grew by 4.44%, container traffic expanded by 7.77%, and flux handling climbed by 18.32%. LPG handling surged by 105%, reflecting broad-based growth across cargo categories.

The port's extensive hinterland, rich in minerals such as iron ore, coal and limestone, alongside the presence of major steel plants and fertiliser industries, continues to underpin cargo volume growth and supplies raw materials to fertiliser manufacturers.

Among terminal operators, Kalinga International Coal Terminal Pvt. Ltd. posted an 18.92% increase in cargo, while Paradip International Cargo Terminal Pvt. Ltd. registered a 19.53% rise, recording their highest volumes ever and significantly contributing to the port's overall performance.

Paradip Port also achieved its strongest financial results in FY 2025-26, setting new records among Indian major ports. The net surplus surpassed Rs. 2000 crore for the first time, with the operating ratio reaching a best-ever low of 31%, demonstrating robust financial health.

Looking forward, the port is prioritising expansion and sustainability initiatives. The 25 MMTPA Western Dock Project, being developed by M/s JPPL, is slated for completion in 2026. Additionally, plans are in place to establish a Green Hydrogen/Ammonia Export Terminal, supporting future energy objectives. The PPA has begun modernising all berths with necessary approvals, aiming to become India's first fully mechanised bulk port before 2030.

P. L. Haranadh, Chairman of the Paradip Port Authority, congratulated stakeholders-including exporters, importers, employees, staff unions, public-private partnership operators, stevedores, and shipping agents-for their collective efforts in realising this achievement. He also expressed gratitude to Sarbananda Sonowal, Union Minister of Ports, Shipping & Waterways, and Shantanu Thakur, Minister of State, for their guidance and leadership.