Mangaluru: Strong stakeholder coordination key to tackling port risks, says DC Darshan H.V

Mangalore Today News Network

Mangaluru, Apr 2, 2026: Dakshina Kannada Deputy Commissioner Darshan H.V. emphasized the need for strong coordination between government agencies, industry stakeholders, and port authorities to effectively tackle risks in port operations.

He was speaking after inaugurating a seminar at New Mangalore Port, organized under NMPT, on the themes “Maritime Challenges and the Role of Stakeholders” and “Indian Port Act 2025” on Wednesday.

NMPT Deputy Conservator Captain Manoj Joshi welcomed the dignitaries and participants, highlighting the importance of collaborative efforts among stakeholders to address maritime challenges and ensure safe and efficient port operations.

Presiding over the event, NMPT Deputy Chairperson S. Shanthi said that the Indian Port Act 2025 would play a crucial role in enhancing administrative efficiency and strengthening the regulatory framework of ports.

Guest of honour Nandakumar V. Pillai, Director (Refinery) of MRPL, appreciated the role of ports in driving industrial growth.

Technical Session: Former Shipping Advisor to the Government of India, Captain L.K. Panda, and former Deputy Conservator of Mumbai Port Authority, Captain Anand W. Karkare, shared insights on technical aspects. NMPT Deputy Conservator Captain Manoj Joshi and Surveyor-in-Charge Ubaidulla Rahman were also present on the dais.

NMPT Achieves Historic Milestone of 50 Million Tonnes Cargo Handling

The New Mangalore Port Authority (NMPA) has achieved a historic milestone in its 50th financial year (Golden Jubilee year), handling a record 50.04 million tonnes (MT) of cargo in 2025–26, surpassing its previous records.

This marks the highest annual cargo handling in the port’s history, further strengthening NMPA’s position as a key gateway on India’s west coast. The port authority expressed gratitude to major companies, the customs department, and all stakeholders for their support in achieving this milestone.

The achievement was made possible under the leadership of NMPA Chairman Sushil Kumar Singh and Deputy Chairperson S. Shanthi, according to an official release.

The milestone was celebrated on Wednesday evening with a cake-cutting ceremony attended by port staff and stakeholders.