**The Total Number of Major Ports in India:**

India has a vast coastline of approximately 7,500 kilometers along the Arabian Sea and the Bay of Bengal. This extensive coastline has led to the development of numerous ports along its shores. These ports play a crucial role in India's maritime trade and transportation, both domestically and internationally.

The major ports in India are governed and managed by the central government through the Ministry of Shipping. These ports are responsible for handling large volumes of cargo, facilitating smooth trade operations, and contributing significantly to the country's economic growth.

The correct answer to the question is option 'C', which states that there are 12 major ports in India. Let's explore these ports in detail:

1. **Kandla Port**: Located in Gujarat, Kandla Port is one of the largest ports in India and handles various types of cargo, including petroleum, chemicals, iron ore, and grains.

2. **Mumbai Port**: Also known as the Port of Bombay, it is situated in Maharashtra and is the largest port on the western coast of India. It handles a wide range of cargo and is well-connected to the hinterland.

3. **Jawaharlal Nehru Port**: Located in Navi Mumbai, Maharashtra, this port is the largest container port in India. It primarily handles containerized cargo and plays a crucial role in international trade.

4. **Mormugao Port**: Situated in Goa, Mormugao Port is a major iron ore exporting port and handles various other commodities like coal, petroleum, and fertilizers.

5. **New Mangalore Port**: Located in Karnataka, New Mangalore Port caters to the transportation needs of the region and handles cargo like petroleum products, edible oils, and chemicals.

6. **Cochin Port**: Situated in Kerala, Cochin Port is an all-weather natural harbor and handles a diverse range of cargo, including containerized cargo, petroleum products, and liquid chemicals.

7. **Chennai Port**: Located in Tamil Nadu, Chennai Port is one of the oldest ports in India and handles various types of cargo, including automobiles, general cargo, and containers.

8. **V.O. Chidambaranar Port**: Formerly known as Tuticorin Port, it is situated in Tamil Nadu and primarily handles coal, salt, and other bulk cargo.

9. **Visakhapatnam Port**: Located in Andhra Pradesh, Visakhapatnam Port is one of the busiest ports on the eastern coast of India. It handles a wide range of cargo, including iron ore, coal, and petroleum products.

10. **Paradip Port**: Situated in Odisha, Paradip Port is a major port on the east coast of India and handles various types of cargo like iron ore, coal, fertilizers, and petroleum products.

11. **Port Blair Port**: Located in the Andaman and Nicobar Islands, Port Blair Port plays a crucial role in connecting these islands with the mainland. It handles cargo like food grains, construction materials, and petroleum products.

12. **Ennore Port**: Situated in Tamil Nadu, Ennore Port primarily handles coal, iron ore, and petroleum products. It is one of the youngest major ports in India.

These 12 major ports together contribute significantly to India's maritime trade, handling a substantial amount of cargo and facilitating smooth trade operations. They play a crucial role in the country's economic development and international trade relations.