Adani Foundation launches ‘Udaan’ Programme at Gopalpur Port

THEBUSINESSBYTES BUREAU

CHHATRAPUR, NOVEMBER 25, 2025

The Adani Foundation on Monday rolled out its flagship ‘Udaan’ programme at Gopalpur Port, aiming to introduce school students to real-world port operations and maritime activities through immersive learning experiences.

The initiative was formally inaugurated by Sibasish Baral, Sub-Collector of Chhatrapur, and Prashanta Patra, Business Head of the port, who jointly flagged off the first batch of visiting students.

The debut session welcomed 40 girl students from Chhatrapur Government Girls’ High School. They were taken through key operational zones, including the jetty, where they observed advanced cargo-handling equipment and interacted with officials overseeing critical port functions. The students also engaged with the Marine Department to understand maritime transport systems, ship navigation processes, and the broader import–export ecosystem.

A memorable moment of the visit was the sighting of the naval warship INS Khanjar, which drew keen interest and excitement from the participants.

Explaining the inspiration behind the programme, Patra said that ‘Udaan’ draws from a childhood experience of Gautam Adani, whose formative visit to Kandla Port sparked the aspiration to build world-class ports in India. “With Udaan, we seek to kindle similar inspiration among young minds by giving them firsthand exposure to industries that shape the nation’s growth,” he noted.

In its first year, the Foundation plans to facilitate port visits for students of Classes 9 to 12 across Ganjam, Chhatrapur, Rangeilunda, and Berhampur. The initiative has received enthusiastic support from students, educators, and parents, further strengthening the Foundation’s efforts to expand educational opportunities and career awareness in the region.