The meandering course of the Indian ports sector, the backbone of the country´s trade and commerce, has long been raising alarms. There are no two views about the importance of ports and their contribution in sustaining the growth and development of the economy.

Government is planning to put 98 per cent of sectors, which are open to foreign investments, under the automatic route so that businessmen won´t need to visit the Finance Ministry or ´Udyog Bhavan´ for any approval, a top official said.

IREE 2015 provided a glittering centre-stage for all rail-technology related organisations and individuals to display their strengths, advancements and future plans

At 4.87 million km, India has the second largest road network in the world. Transporting over 60 per cent of the country´s goods and serving 85 per cent of total passenger traffic, it is little wonder the Modi Government has accorded the highest priority to developing roads and highways.

In a candid conversation with Infrastructure Today, I Jeyakumar, Chairman, Mormugao Port Trust, puts forth the challenges faced by ports and his views on the way ahead.

Indian Railways has been a victim of years of chronic underinvestment. Though ushering in the PPP mode and 100 per cent FDI for the sector are being perceived as a panacea, there are miles to cover before things get rolling.

A stronger thrust on PPP projects, greater FDI and steady government support can help Indian Railways, one of the world´s largest rail networks, emerge from the rut.

Braving several take-off woes, the aviation industry seems to have found relatively firm grounding. Privatisation has gripped the industry in a big way. Nevertheless, certain ground realities need to be effectively handled for a safer landing.

Sunil Srivastava, Managing Director, Balaji Railroad Systems Ltd, comments on the dismal state of the Indian Railways, delayed projects, and the government´s role in improving the sector.