Shri Sarbananda Sonowal, Hon’ble Union Minister of Ports, Shipping & Waterways, today released VOC Port’s Coffee Table Book that chronicles the port’s journey towards sustainability and green growth. The book highlights VOC Port’s pioneering adoption of renewable energy, its effective waste management strategies, the enforcement of a zero-plastic policy, and its unique distinction as India’s first Plastic-Free Port.
As part of its wider commitment to social responsibility, VOC Port is actively empowering local youth through skilling programmes conducted under the aegis of the Centre of Excellence in Maritime & Shipbuilding (CEMS), an initiative of the Ministry of Ports, Shipping & Waterways.
Marking this effort, a valedictory function was held today for the recently concluded Data Entry training programme, where successful candidates were awarded certificates. Notably, most of the students have already secured placements in reputed organisations, including Flipkart, signalling the programme’s tangible impact on employability.
On the occasion, the Chairperson of VOC Port also inaugurated a new set of training programmes aimed at grooming aspiring Export-Import and Warehouse Executives. Over the coming months, more than 175 youth are expected to benefit from such industry-relevant skill development programmes.
Speaking on the occasion, Shri Sonowal lauded VOC Port’s twin focus on sustainability and skilling. “VOC Port is not only setting benchmarks in green port operations but also creating pathways of opportunity for local youth. This synergy of sustainability and skill development reflects the Ministry’s vision for holistic growth in the maritime sector,” he said.
VOC Port’s ongoing initiatives reaffirm its role as a forward-looking port, committed to environmental stewardship while empowering communities through education and skills for the future.
