India’s major ports came together to celebrate the 77th Republic Day with grandeur, patriotic fervour and a strong reaffirmation of their commitment to nation-building, operational excellence and inclusive growth.
At Chennai Port Authority, celebrations were held at the Babu Jagjivan Ram Stadium in Tondiarpet Housing Colony. Chairperson Shri S. Viswanathan, IAS, unfurled the National Flag and inspected the Guard of Honour, setting the tone for a dignified ceremony attended by port officials and staff.
V.O. Chidambaranar Port Authority, Tuticorin, celebrated the occasion at the Port School Grounds, where Chairperson Shri Susanta Kumar Purohit, IRSEE, unfurled the Tricolour. Along with Shri Rajesh Soundararajan, IAS, Deputy Chairperson, he presented Meritorious Awards to officers and staff in recognition of their dedicated service. The event featured the release of tri-colour balloons, colourful cultural performances by Port School students and the Port Cultural Team, as well as impressive CISF drills and Port Fire Service demonstrations.
At Paradip Port Authority, the celebrations were highlighted by a splendid March Past by CISF personnel and local school students, symbolising discipline, unity and national pride. Chairman Shri P. L. Haranadh addressed the gathering, underscoring the port’s role in nation-building, operational excellence and the vision of a self-reliant, developed India.
The Jawaharlal Nehru Port Authority (JNPA) marked the day with enthusiasm at its premises. Chairperson Shri Gaurav Dayal, IAS, who is also CMD of VPPL, hoisted the National Flag in the presence of Shri Ravish Kumar Singh, IRTS, Deputy Chairperson, senior officials, CISF personnel, and students and teachers of JNPA School. Cultural performances by school students added colour to the celebrations, reflecting the spirit of patriotism and unity.
Kamarajar Port Limited (KPL) celebrated Republic Day under the aegis of the Ministry of Ports, Shipping and Waterways. Managing Director Smt. J. P. Irene Cynthia, IAS, unfurled the National Flag and highlighted the port’s strong operational performance, infrastructure expansion, sustainability initiatives and future roadmap aligned with Maritime India Vision 2030. The event saw enthusiastic participation from employees, port users and residents of neighbouring villages.
At Deendayal Port Authority, Kandla, Chairman Shri Sushil Kumar Singh, IRSME, unfurled the National Flag at the Sports Complex in DPA Township, Gandhidham. A spectacular Grand Tableau Parade showcasing the vibrant cultures of Indian states captivated the audience, beautifully reflecting the theme of unity in diversity.
The New Mangalore Port Authority (NMPA) celebrated the 77th Republic Day with pride and patriotic fervour at Dr. B. R. Ambedkar Stadium, Panambur. The celebrations were led by the Chief Guest, Capt. Manoj Joshi, Deputy Conservator & Deputy Chairman (In-Charge), NMPA, in the presence of senior officers, Heads of Departments, employees, Board members, CISF personnel, staff and school students. Addressing the gathering, Capt. Joshi highlighted the significance of Republic Day and India’s democratic journey, emphasising collective responsibility in nation-building.
Meanwhile, Syama Prasad Mookerjee Port (SMP), Kolkata, marked the 129th birth anniversary of Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose with a solemn tribute at Netaji Subhas Dock. Chairperson Shri R. Raman, Deputy Chairperson Shri Samrat Rahi, CISF officials and senior officers paid homage to the legendary leader, reaffirming their commitment to Netaji’s ideals of courage, patriotism and selfless service.
Across the country, the celebrations at India’s major ports stood as a powerful reminder of their vital role in national development and their shared resolve to contribute to a strong, self-reliant Bharat.
