Which of the following correctly defines the difference between a major port and a minor port in India?
Show answer & explanation
Correct answer: D
Explanation
The correct answer is option 4 i.e. Major ports are under the Central Government, while minor ports are under the State Government.
Major Ports: Managed by the Central Government (Ministry of Ports, Shipping and Waterways). India has 12 major ports, such as Mumbai, Chennai, and Kolkata.
Minor Ports: Managed by the State Governments. There are over 200 minor ports in India, and they usually handle less traffic compared to major ports.
This distinction is based on administrative control, not necessarily on size or cargo capacity.
Other Options:
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Major ports are publicly owned, minor ports are privately owned: Both major and minor ports can have varied ownership structures; ownership is not the defining difference.
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Major ports are along the coasts, minor ports are on inland waterways: Both types of ports are coastal; inland waterways have separate classifications.
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Major ports handle traffic within the country, minor ports handle exports: Both major and minor ports handle domestic and international trade.