Analyzing Statements on Port Management in India

Let's carefully examine each statement regarding the management and responsibility of ports in India.

Statement (a): Major ports are the direct responsibility of the Central and State Governments.

This statement is not entirely accurate. In India, the major ports are primarily the direct responsibility of the Central Government. They are governed by the Major Port Trusts Act and managed by autonomous Port Trusts under the administrative control of the Union Ministry of Ports, Shipping and Waterways. State Governments have little to no direct responsibility over the management of major ports.

Statement (b): Non-major ports are managed and administered by the respective State Governments.

This statement is correct. Ports in India are classified into major, minor, and intermediate ports. Minor and intermediate ports are often collectively referred to as non-major ports. These non-major ports fall under the legislative and administrative jurisdiction of the respective State Governments. Each state has its own ports department or maritime board to manage and administer these ports.

Statement (c): The National Harbour Board was set-up for management and development of minor ports.

This statement is largely correct in its intent. The National Harbour Board was constituted by the Government of India to advise the Central and State Governments on the integrated development of ports, including both major and minor ports. While its role is advisory and focused on coordinated planning and development rather than direct management, its establishment was specifically aimed at ensuring systematic development of ports, including addressing the needs of minor ports.

Based on the analysis:

• Statement (a) is incorrect because major ports are primarily under the Central Government's direct responsibility, not both Central and State Governments.
• Statement (b) is correct as non-major (minor) ports are managed by the respective State Governments.
• Statement (c) is correct as the National Harbour Board was established to advise on the development and management planning of all ports, including minor ports.

Therefore, the correct statements are (b) and (c).