New Mangalore Port Authority Celebrates 80th Independence Day with Patriotic Fervour
Mangaluru: New Mangalore Port Authority (NMPA) celebrated India’s 80th Independence Day with great enthusiasm and patriotic fervour at the JNC Hall premises in Panambur. Smt. S. Shanthi, Deputy Chairperson, NMPA, was the Chief Guest and hoisted the National Flag, leading the Port fraternity in commemorating the nation’s Independence.
The celebrations commenced with garlanding the statues of Mahatma Gandhi, Dr. B. R. Ambedkar, and the late U. S. Mallya, paying tribute to their invaluable contributions to the nation. As part of the ongoing Har Ghar Tiranga campaign, being observed from August 9 to 17, 2026, Port employees and staff sang Vande Mataram, reaffirming the spirit of patriotism and national unity.
Following the flag hoisting, the Deputy Chairperson inspected the ceremonial parade comprising contingents of CISF personnel, NMPA Fire Service personnel, students of NMPT English Medium High School and Kendriya Vidyalaya No. 1, and private security personnel.
Addressing the gathering, Smt. S. Shanthi paid tribute to the countless freedom fighters whose sacrifices paved the way for a free India. She highlighted the important role of the maritime sector in the country’s economic growth and recognised NMPA’s contribution to national trade, energy security and the regional economy.
She appreciated the collective efforts of the entire Port fraternity, including seafarers, pilots, dock workers, officers, employees, security personnel, trade partners and other stakeholders, whose dedicated efforts contribute to the efficient functioning and growth of the Port.
The Deputy Chairperson highlighted NMPA’s achievements in cargo growth, digitalisation, mechanisation, environmental sustainability and employee welfare, while outlining the Port’s vision of becoming a smarter, cleaner, safer and more inclusive port. Looking ahead towards Amrit Kaal 2047, she called for continued collaboration among the Port community, government, trade and shipping fraternity, and citizens to build a stronger and more resilient maritime ecosystem.
As part of the celebrations, Port officers, employees, contract staff, CISF personnel, private security guards, conservancy staff, students and school teachers were felicitated for their exemplary services. Officers and employees who excelled in sports were also rewarded for their achievements.
Students and employees who emerged winners in various competitions organised in connection with the Har Ghar Tiranga campaign were honoured. Students who achieved outstanding academic results were also felicitated in recognition of their hard work and excellence. The felicitation programme reflected NMPA’s commitment to recognising and appreciating contributions from all sections of its workforce and the wider Port community.
The celebrations also featured a vibrant cultural programme presented by students of Kendriya Vidyalaya No. 1, NMPT English Medium High School and DKZP Higher Primary School, Panambur, adding colour and patriotic spirit to the occasion.
NMPA’s active participation in the Har Ghar Tiranga campaign was showcased through a series of activities, including selfies with the Tiranga, a mass rendition of Vande Mataram, a walkathon, competitions for school students and employees, and various patriotic and awareness programmes organised by different departments of the Port. The nationwide Har Ghar Tiranga campaign commenced on August 9 and will conclude on August 17, 2026.
The programme concluded with the planting of saplings, reaffirming NMPA’s continued commitment to environmental sustainability and a greener future.
