Indus Valley Times

By Pravakar Sahoo

Bhubaneswar, April 6: 61st National Maritime Day was celebrated at PPA in the Wet Basin of the PPA’s Marine Site office, where, Shri P.L.Haranadh, Chairman, PPA graced the occasion as Chief Guest. At the meeting, Shri Haranadh spoke at length how indomitable spirit of Paradip Port Family enabled it for the first time in the 57 years history of operation to become No.1 Major Port in the country, surpassing previous records, set by Deendayal Port. A no. of business development activities and system improvement measures implemented in recent years have given remarkable results. PPA accounts for 30% overall growth in traffic of combined all major ports in FY 2023-24. The berth productivity remains the highest among all major ports in spite of the cheapest tariffs. Currently India accounts for more than 12% of total Seafarers of the worlds and the no. is likely to increase to 20% by 2030.  He urged the young mass to explore vast employment opportunity in the maritime sector.

Guest of Honour, Shri  Nilabhra Dasgupta, Dy.Chairman, PPA said that if port is compared to a human body then the marine department will be its heart. With significant contribution from Seafarers community, PPA will achieve new milestone in coming years.  Shri A.K. Bose, Advisor, Traffic,  Capt.A.C.Sahoo, Dy. Conservator, PPA also spoke on the occasion

Capt.Tusharkanti Sahu, Master Mariner was felicitated on the occasion for his tireless service and stellar contribution to the Indian Maritime Industry. Coinciding with the observations of National Maritime Day competitions like swimming, heaving line throw and rope climbing were held. Winners of the different competitions were also awarded on the occasion. Capt. Indranil Mukherjee, Harbour Master gave the welcome speech and Er. Bablu Sikdar, Sr. Marine Engineer offered Vote of Thanks.