V.O. Chidambaranar Port Authority (VOCPA) has emerged as a model for sustainable maritime development in India, achieving significant progress in decarbonization and green infrastructure. According to the port's first Sustainability Report, renewable energy now offsets nearly 94% of the port's energy-consumption equivalent, while net carbon emissions have been reduced by approximately 45%. Carbon intensity per tonne of cargo has been reduced by nearly half over the past four years, reinforcing VOC Port's position as a frontrunner in India's green maritime transition.
Union Minister of Ports, Shipping and Waterways Sarbananda Sonowal dedicated several initiatives at VOCPA, highlighting the port's transformation into a green energy and sustainable maritime center. A major highlight was the commencement of academic activities at Kendriya Vidyalaya, VOC Port, for the 2026-27 academic session. Established with approval from Kendriya Vidyalaya Sangathan, the institution will initially function from the Port School campus and provide quality CBSE education to children of port employees, Central government personnel, and the local community.
The minister released an IIM Calcutta case study titled "The Hydrogen Pivot: Orchestrating the Green Transition at V.O. Chidambaranar Port Authority," which documents the port's transformation from a conventional cargo hub. The study highlights the port's pioneering efforts in renewable energy, electrification, and green hydrogen development, including India's first green hydrogen pilot project commissioned at a major port.
VOC Port received recognition as a Scope-2 Emission Free Port, validating its successful transition toward clean energy and low-carbon operations. This certification strengthens its standing as one of India's leading green ports.
In another development, VOC Port Authority signed a Memorandum of Understanding with Gati Shakti Vishwavidyalaya, Vadodara, to promote collaboration in research, innovation, logistics education, skill development, and sustainable port operations. The partnership is expected to facilitate the establishment of a Centre of Excellence in Maritime Logistics and Port Management.
The minister also launched the PortGPT mobile application, making VOC Port the first major port in India to extend an enterprise-grade generative artificial intelligence platform through a dedicated mobile application. The platform is expected to enhance operational efficiency, knowledge management, and data-driven decision-making while supporting the port's long-term digital transformation goals.