India extends viability gap financing for Nagapattinam –Kankesanthurai ferry service for third year
The Indian government extended the financial assistance for the passenger ferry service between Nagapattinam and Kankesanthurai for another year, the High Commission said.This marks the third consecutive year of financial support by the Indian government for the ferry service, beginning with its resumption in August 2024. The extension reflects India’s continued commitment to enhancing regional connectivity and strengthening people-to-people linkages between the two countries, the High Commission said in a statement.
The financial support is being extended under the Viability Gap Funding mechanism, amounting to nearly Rs. 300 million annually. The assistance is aimed at ensuring the affordability and operational sustainability of the service by covering key logistical and operational costs, on terms similar to the previous year.Since its resumption in August 2024, the ferry service has facilitated the movement of around 52,000 passengers, significantly contributing to cultural, economic and social exchanges between India and Sri Lanka. The service represents an important milestone in the revitalization of maritime connectivity between the two countries.
The continuation of financial support for the ferry service also aligns with the shared vision for enhanced maritime connectivity, as reaffirmed during the visit of the President of Sri Lanka to India in December 2024 and the visit of the Prime Minister of India to Sri Lanka in April 2025.Future plans include rehabilitation of Kankesanthurai Harbour under overall Indian grant assistance of US$ 65 million, as well as exploration of additional routes and services that could further expand maritime connectivity and deepen economic and people-to-people linkages between India and Sri Lanka, according to the statement.
