THEBUSINESSBYTES BUREAU

PARADIP, APRIL 5, 2026

Paradip Port Authority (PPA) celebrated the 63rd National Maritime Day with a strong emphasis on sustainability, safety, and future-ready growth, reaffirming the maritime sector’s pivotal role in driving India’s economic progress and global trade connectivity. The celebration was organised under the themes “Maritime India: Empowering the Progress” and “Prosperous Seas – Developed India & Youth for Blue Economy & Green Growth,” reflecting the sector’s evolving focus on innovation, environmental responsibility, and youth engagement.

The programme commenced with the ceremonial flag hoisting, symbolising the nation’s rich maritime legacy and enduring commitment to strengthening the shipping and port ecosystem. A.K. Bose, Advisor (Traffic), PPA and former Deputy Chairman, attended as the Chief Guest, while Capt. P. Rout (Master Mariner) and P.C. Majhi (SIC, MMD) graced the occasion as Guests of Honour. Capt. P. Rout and P.C. Majhi were felicitated in recognition of their significant contributions to the maritime sector.

Addressing the gathering, A.K. Bose highlighted the growing strategic importance of the maritime industry in shaping India’s economic future. He emphasised the need to empower youth and accelerate environmentally responsible development practices to ensure long-term sustainability of maritime operations.

Speakers paid tribute to seafarers for their unwavering dedication and resilience in ensuring the uninterrupted movement of essential commodities, energy resources, and cargo across global trade routes, even under challenging circumstances. Their role continues to remain fundamental in maintaining resilient supply chains that support both national growth and international commerce.

Under the leadership of Chairman P.L. Haranadh, Paradip Port has achieved notable operational milestones over the past year. The port handled over 2,526 vessels and registered substantial cargo growth, including more than 6 million metric tonnes of additional traditional cargo. The port also played a critical role in stabilising supply chains during the West Asia crisis by ensuring the steady flow of key commodities such as limestone, fertiliser raw materials, and liquid cargo.

Aligned with the Maritime India Vision 2030, PPA continues its transformation towards becoming a Green Port through a series of modernisation and sustainability initiatives. These include adoption of green fuels, expansion of port electrification, enhanced mechanisation, and deployment of smart logistics systems. The port is also focusing on renewable energy integration and digital transformation to improve efficiency, reduce environmental impact, and strengthen its global competitiveness.

Reinforcing its commitment to workplace safety, the observance echoed the importance of maintaining high safety standards in line with the spirit of National Safety Week. PPA continues to prioritise safe working conditions, operational excellence, and the welfare and dignity of seafarers and the wider maritime community.

Capt. Alekha Charan Sahoo, Deputy Conservator, presided over the meeting, while Harbour Master Capt. Indranil Mukherjee delivered the welcome address. Manoj Kumar Mahanta, Senior ME, proposed the vote of thanks. The programme was smoothly compered by Capt. S.B. Panigrahi.

The celebration also featured engaging maritime skill competitions, including heaving line throw, swimming, rope climbing, and seamanship challenges, showcasing the professionalism, discipline, and physical preparedness essential to maritime operations. Winners were felicitated during the prize distribution ceremony, recognising excellence and dedication.

The event concluded with a collective call for stronger collaboration among port authorities, shipping companies, and policymakers to build a resilient, sustainable, and globally competitive maritime ecosystem, positioning India as a leading force in the global maritime landscape.