The Member of Parliament from Dakshina Kannada, Capt Brijesh Chowta, has urged the Union Ports and Shipping Ministry to establish a maritime university in Mangaluru.
Capt Chowta, who met the Secretary of Ports and Shipping, TK Ramachandran, in New Delhi on Tuesday, said the proposed university will be named after Rani Abbakka as a tribute to the warrior queen who fought valiantly to safeguard the coast of Bharat.
His proposal to the Ministry also seeks active participation of the New Mangalore Port Authority (NMPA), which is celebrating its golden jubilee this year, in commissioning a detailed project report (DPR).
Capt Chowta requested the Ministry to constitute an expert committee to develop the university framework and to initiate inter-ministerial consultations for stakeholder alignment.
He said the proposed university should offer a wide range of programmes, including B Tech, B Sc, BBA, M Tech, MBA, M Sc, and diplomas, catering to the skill development, research, and policy innovation needs of India’s maritime advancement.
“The Rani Abbakka Maritime University will both pay homage to an iconic national figure as well as create a future-ready workforce trained in marine engineering, maritime law, port and terminal management, and maritime informatics,” he said.
Establishment of the university aligns with the Prime Minister’s maritime ‘Amrit Kaal’ vision and the nation’s strategic goal to emerge as a global maritime hub. Drawing attention to Mangaluru’s geographic advantages, historical significance, and proximity to major ports and educational institutions, Capt Chowta said it would hence make it an ideal location for such an institution.
He assured his full support to the Ministry in facilitating coordination with local and state-level authorities to advance the proposal.