New Delhi, Feb 8 (FN Bureau) State-run major ports would ‘right-size’ their workforce after receiving report from consultancy firm KPMG on exact manpower requirement by them. In written reply to a question in Rajya Sabha, Minister of Ports, Shipping and Waterways Sarbananda Sonowal on Tuesday said that present manpower strength at major ports is excessive due to the technology and mechanisation over the years. He further said that as a result manpower cost of major ports is very high as compared to private ports.
“Therefore, a study to assess the exact requirement of manpower in major ports was awarded by the Indian Ports Association to M/s KPMG. After receipt of the report of M/s KPMG, the right-sizing of the manpower in all major ports would be finalized,” Sonowal said. As per official data, a total of 10,208 posts are currently vacant in 11 Major ports. Ports in India are grouped as major and minor ports according to the jurisdiction of the Central and state governments. Major ports are owned and managed by the central government while minor ports are owned and managed by the state governments. As per Ministry of Shipping, there are 12 major ports and 200 non-major ports (minor ports) in the country. Several private players have also entered the ports sector building and managing the infrastructure. Gautam Adani-led Adani Ports and Special Economic Zone Limited (APSEZ Ltd.) is India’s largest private port operator.