76th Republic Day of the nation was celebrated in Chennai
Port Authority on 26.01.2025 in a gala function held at Babu Jagjivan Ram Sports
Complex of Chennai Port Authority at Tondiarpet, Chennai. All the events were
organised in
the spirit of togetherness, with various cultural performances, showcasing our
heritage with the sense of national pride.
Shri Sunil Paliwal, IAS, Chairperson, Chennai Port Authority &
Kamarajar Port Limited, unfurled the National Flag, inspected the Guard of
Honour and addressed the gathering. During the address, Chairperson highlighted
the legacy of Constitution of India set by eminent leaders of yester-years and
urged all to abide by the ethos and values enshrined in the Constitution of
India.
Chennai Port has
registered an overall growth of 5.5% and increase in Container handling by
12.5% for the period April to December 2024 when compared to corresponding
period of previous year. Both Chennai Port and Kamarajar Port together are set
to cross overall cargo handling of 100 MMT in 2024-25 while embarking on the journey
towards achieving the Martime Amrit Kaal Vision 2047 a reality.
It was also
highlighted that this year marks the 25th Anniversary of Kamarajar Port Limited.
The milestone event
was graced by Shri Sarbananda Sonowal, Hon’ble Union Minister Ports, Shipping
and Waterways, and Shri E.V. Velu, Hon’ble Minister for Public Works, Highways,
and Minor Ports, Tamil Nadu.
Chairperson
highlighted that a number of infrastructure projects which will have a positive
impact on the port operations as well as welfare of employees are in the
pipeline. Some of the completed projects are Buffer Parking Yard, Refurbishing
of Warehouses etc. Important projects in the pipeline are Construction of four
EXIM Godowns & Transit Sheds, Jawahar Dock Entrance Wall, Paved Storage
Yards, and Seafarers Facility within the Custom Bound area, Modernisation of
Gate 7 etc.
He further highlighted the various welfare measures taken for Port Employees
such as implementation of Wage Revision and extending further pensionary
benefits to dependent widowed / divorcee daughters of the deceased employees. Chennai
Port, being a responsible corporate citizen, has implemented various
empowerment initiatives for the Community. Chennai Port Authority was adjudged
as the Best Port among 71 international competitors, for sustainability and
community outreach initiatives and awarded the IAPH Sustainability Award on Community
Development by International Association for Port and Harbour (IAPH). Chennai
Port is the first Indian Port to receive this Award.
Chairperson presented cash awards
to school children who had secured positions in National, State and District
Sports events, to inspire the students. Chairperson also announced Scholarship Scheme
for students for undergoing Sailing Training at Royal Madras Yacht Club.
On concluding note, Chairperson
inspired, everyone to take pledge, for sincerely working together for the
development of the Port and urged one and all to contribute to Nation Building on
this auspicious day.
Shri S. Viswanathan, IAS, Deputy Chairperson, Shri
S. Murali Krishnan, IDAS, Chief Vigilance Officer, Chennai Port Authority Board
members, Heads of the Departments, Trade Union Leaders , Officers & Staff
of Chennai Port Authority and Teachers & Students of Chennai Port School
& Swabhodhini participated in the 76th Republic Day Celebration.