DIGITAL READINESS AND OPERATIONAL EFFICIENCY IN INDIAN MAJOR PORTS: EVIDENCE FROM A DEA APPROACH

This study analyses how digital transformation effects the operational performance of India’s 12 major ports.Digital readiness is measured through a Digital Transformation Index that directs the development of smartinfrastructure, system integration, cyber security measures, and digital governance practices. Consideringsecondary information from annual reports of selected ports, operational efficiency is measured by treating eachport as a decision-making unit within a Super-Efficiency Data Envelopment Analysis framework, complementedby a shift–share assessment. This analytical model uses infrastructure, capital, labour, and operating expenditureas inputs, while cargo handling, container movement, revenue generation, and productivity metrics serve asoutputs. Findings the study suggest that ports with higher levels of digital maturity led to utilise resources moreeffectively and exhibit better productivity performance. A cluster analysis in addition exhibits organizations ofports that fluctuate in their degree of digital adoption and efficiency tiers, pointing to uneven progress throughoutthe sector. Overall, the study gives empirical proof on how digital transformation strengthens port efficiency andcompetitiveness within the context of a growing economy.