MANGALURU: New Mangalore Port Authority (NMPA) celebrated the 80th Independence Day with great enthusiasm and patriotic fervour at the JNC Hall premises, 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 the garlanding of the statues of Mahatma Gandhi, Dr. B.R. Ambedkar and Late U.S. Mallya, paying homage to their invaluable contributions to the nation. As part of the ongoing Har Ghar Tiranga campaign, being observed from 9 to 17 August 2026, the 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 contingent comprising 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, Deputy Chairperson, NMPA and Chief Guest, 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 India’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 also highlighted NMPA’s achievements in cargo growth, digitalisation, mechanisation, environmental sustainability and employee welfare, while outlining the Port’s vision of emerging as 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.
The Independence Day celebrations also showcased NMPA’s active participation in the Har Ghar Tiranga campaign through a series of activities, selfie with tiranga, including mass rendition of Vande Mataram, a walkathon, competitions for school students and employees, and various patriotic and awareness activities organised by different departments of the Port. The har Ghar Tiranga Campaign started from 09th August 2026 nationwide will conclude on 17th August 2026.
The programme concluded with the planting of saplings, reaffirming NMPA’s continued commitment to environmental sustainability and a greener future.
