NMPA culminates Merchant Navy Week with 63rd National Maritime Day Celebrations

MANGALURU : New Mangalore Port Authority (NMPA) marked the culmination of the Merchant Navy Week celebrations with the observance of the 63rd National Maritime Day on 05 April 2026, celebrating India’s rich maritime legacy and honouring the invaluable contributions of seafarers and maritime stakeholders.

To mark the occasion, a Wreath Laying Ceremony was held at the Seafarers’ Memorial, NMPA, where Smt. S. Shanthi, Deputy Chairperson, NMPA, laid the wreath and paid homage to seafarers who lost their lives in the line of duty. Senior officers, employees, port users, and stakeholders also paid their respects to the brave seafarers.

Later in the evening, a Grand Valedictory Function of the Merchant Navy Week celebrations was held at JNC Hall, NMPA, Panambur. The function was presided over by Smt. S. Shanthi, Deputy Chairperson, NMPA. Dr. M. Mohan Alva, Chairman, Alva’s Education Foundation (R), Moodbidri, graced the occasion as the Chief Guest and inaugurated the valedictory function.
The event was also graced by distinguished dignitaries including Dr. R. K. Nair, Green Hero of India, as Guest of Honour, Capt. Manoj Joshi, President, Maritime Day Celebration Committee, NMPA, and Shri Ubaidu Rehman, Surveyor-in-Charge, Mercantile Marine Department (MMD), Mangalore.

Addressing the gathering, Dr. M. Mohan Alva highlighted the vital role played by seafarers and maritime stakeholders in strengthening India’s economy and emphasized the importance of recognising their dedication and contributions to global trade.
In her presidential address, Smt. S. Shanthi, Deputy Chairperson, NMPA, appreciated the active participation of port users, stakeholders, and employees during the Merchant Navy Week and emphasized the importance of collaboration among maritime stakeholders to strengthen India’s maritime sector.

Dr. R. K. Nair also addressed the gathering and highlighted the importance of environmental sustainability and responsible maritime operations in ensuring sustainable growth of the maritime sector. The programme featured presentation of Merchant Navy Week report, felicitation of distinguished contributors in the maritime sector, and prize distribution to winners of various competitions conducted during the week-long celebrations.

A vibrant cultural programme by students of Alva’s College added colour and enthusiasm to the celebrations, followed by dinner for participants and stakeholders. Background – Merchant Navy Week Celebrations NMPA observed Merchant Navy Week from 28 March to 05 April 2026, organizing a series of events to celebrate the maritime fraternity and promote stakeholder engagement. The celebrations commenced with a Friendly Maritime Cricket Match on 28 March 2026, followed by a Treasure Hunt on 29 March 2026.

On 30 March 2026, a Beach Cleaning Drive and Tug of War Competition were conducted at Panambur Beach. A Blood Donation Camp was organized on 31 March 2026 at Srinivas Port Hospital, where 123 donors participated. On 01 April 2026, a Maritime Seminar on Maritime Adversities and Role of Stakeholders and Indian Port Act 2025 was conducted, bringing together industry experts and stakeholders.

Essay and drawing competitions for students and a Throwball Competition for women employees were held on 02 April 2026, along with a Radio Talk on Akashvani – All India Radio highlighting the significance of Merchant Navy Week.

On 03 April 2026, the Merchant Navy flag/lapel was ceremonially pinned on Capt. Brijesh Chowta, Hon’ble Member of Parliament, Dakshina Kannada, marking the formal commencement of the observance also Port visit for family members of Port employees, users and staff. A Maritime Marathon was also organized on 04 April 2026 with enthusiastic participation.

The week-long celebrations concluded with the 63rd National Maritime Day observance on 05 April 2026, reaffirming the commitment of New Mangalore Port Authority to recognize the dedication, resilience, and professionalism of seafarers and maritime stakeholders who play a vital role in keeping global trade and logistics moving.