MANGALURU: Hon’ble Minister for Energy and Tourism, Government of Karnataka, Sri K.J. George, visited the New Mangalore Port Authority (NMPA) and reviewed various operational, infrastructural and tourism-related aspects of the Port.
The Hon’ble Minister was warmly welcomed by Smt. S. Shanthi, Deputy Chairperson, NMPA, along with senior officers of the Port.
During the visit, Sri K.J. George toured key operational areas of the Port and gained first-hand insights into its functioning, cargo handling operations and supporting infrastructure. He was briefed on the Port’s role in facilitating maritime trade and strengthening logistics connectivity for Karnataka and the surrounding hinterland.
The Hon’ble Minister was accompanied by Dr. Ramprasath Manohar, IAS, Secretary to Tourism, Government of Karnataka; Shri Darshan H. V., IAS, Deputy Commissioner, Dakshina Kannada District; Shri Ivan D’Souza, Member of Legislative Council; Shri M. A. Gafoor, Chairman, Karavali Development Board, Mangaluru; and former MLA Shri J. R. Lobo, along with senior officers of the Department of Tourism and various State Government bodies.
The visit provided an opportunity to review NMPA’s operational capabilities, infrastructure development initiatives and ongoing efforts to enhance efficiency and capacity. Discussions also focused on the Port’s strategic importance in supporting regional economic development, industrial growth and trade through efficient maritime logistics.
A key highlight of the visit was the Hon’ble Minister’s tour of the Cruise Terminal at NMPA, where he was briefed about the facilities and arrangements developed to support the growth of cruise tourism.
The Minister reviewed the infrastructure available for cruise passengers and discussed the potential for strengthening cruise tourism in Karnataka. With its strategic location along India’s west coast and proximity to several prominent tourism destinations, NMPA has significant potential to serve as an important gateway for domestic and international cruise passengers.
The discussions also highlighted the importance of coordinated efforts between tourism authorities and maritime stakeholders to further promote coastal and cruise tourism, enhance passenger experiences and showcase Karnataka’s rich cultural, natural and coastal attractions to visitors.
The visit reflects the growing focus on integrating port infrastructure with tourism development and leveraging maritime gateways to create new opportunities for economic growth and employment.
NMPA continues to play an important role in facilitating maritime trade while also expanding its contribution to passenger and cruise tourism. The Port’s efforts towards modernising infrastructure and enhancing operational capabilities are aligned with the broader vision of developing world-class maritime infrastructure and strengthening India’s blue economy.
Key Highlights of the Visit:
Hon’ble Minister for Energy and Tourism, Government of Karnataka, Sri K.J. George, visited NMPA.
Welcomed by Smt. S. Shanthi, Deputy Chairperson, NMPA, and senior Port officials.
Reviewed key operational and infrastructure facilities of the Port.
Gained first-hand insights into cargo handling operations and Port functioning.
Visited the Cruise Terminal and reviewed facilities supporting cruise tourism.
Discussions focused on strengthening cruise and coastal tourism opportunities in Karnataka.
Highlighted the role of NMPA in supporting maritime trade, regional development and the growth of the blue economy.
Strengthening maritime infrastructure, advancing tourism and unlocking new opportunities for Karnataka’s coastal economy.
