This research examines the efficiency of India’s 12 major ports over a 22-year period (2001–02 to 2022–23), focusing on both physical and financial efficiency indicators. Using time-series secondary data from official reports, statistical methods such as Linear Growth Rate (LGR), Compound Growth Rate (CGR), and Instability Index were employed to evaluate trends in container traffic, vessel turnaround time, berth occupancy, idle time at berth, average output per ship berth day, capacity utilization, and operating ratio. The findings reveal that while some ports, such as Paradip, Tuticorin, Visakhapatnam, and Mumbai, have shown consistent growth and operational efficiency, others including JNPT, Chennai and Kandla have faced decline, volatility, or stagnation. The study highlights the urgent need for mechanization, digitalization, and optimization strategies to overcome congestion and inefficiencies. The results have significant policy implications for reducing logistics costs, improving India’s trade competitiveness, and meeting the targets of initiatives such as Sagarmala and the National Logistics Policy.