Written by Jiffry• September 19, 2026• 1:49 pm• Current Affairs • Views: 17

India Extends Rs. 300 Million Support for Nagapattinam–Kankesanthurai Ferry

Travelers using the Nagapattinam–Kankesanthurai passenger ferry will continue to receive a government-backed service for another year.

India has extended its financial support for the ferry service, providing nearly Rs. 300 million annually through its Viability Gap Funding programme.

The support will help cover key operating and logistical costs. It will also help keep the ferry service affordable for passengers.

The extension marks the third consecutive year of Indian support since the ferry service resumed in August 2024.

Ferry Has Carried Around 52,000 Passengers

The ferry has carried around 52,000 passengers since its return in August 2024.

The service connects Nagapattinam in India with Kankesanthurai in the north and provides a sea travel option between the two countries.

According to the High Commission of India, the ferry has also supported cultural, economic and social exchanges between the two countries.

For travellers, the latest funding extension means the service will continue with financial support aimed at keeping operations sustainable.

Kankesanthurai Harbour Could See Further Development

India is also planning further support for maritime connectivity.

The plans include the rehabilitation of Kankesanthurai Harbour through USD 65 million in Indian grant assistance.

The two sides are also exploring additional ferry routes and services.

The plans follow a shared focus on improving maritime links between India and Sri Lanka.

The governments reaffirmed this focus during the Sri Lankan President’s visit to India in December 2024 and the Indian Prime Minister’s visit to Sri Lanka in April 2025.

For passengers, the immediate development is the extension of funding for the existing ferry service.

For the wider transport network, the planned harbour work and possible new routes could create more options for travel by sea.