New Mangalore Port Authority shines at national awards for excellence in ports & shipping 2025

By Admin

20 Sep, 2025

The New Mangalore Port Authority (NMPA) has once again set a benchmark in India’s maritime sector by achieving remarkable recognition at the National Awards for Excellence in Ports & Shipping 2025, held at the Taj MG Road, Bengaluru. In a momentous evening, Dr. A. V. Ramana, Chairman of NMPA, was honored with two of the most prestigious awards: Major Port of the Year and CEO of the Year.

This accolade is especially significant as NMPA celebrates its Golden Jubilee year, highlighting five decades of unwavering commitment to excellence, innovation, and sustainable growth. The dual awards underscore the Port’s exceptional achievements under Dr. Ramana’s visionary leadership since he assumed charge in June 2019.

Dr. Ramana, a Ph.D. in Mechanical Engineering with over 30 years of experience in the Indian maritime sector, has transformed NMPA into a model of efficiency, sustainability, and inclusivity. His tenure has seen the digital transformation of port operations, the deployment of electric vehicles, and significant infrastructure expansion to meet rising cargo demands. Beyond operational success, Dr. Ramana has prioritized community welfare, overseeing landmark projects such as the ₹197 crore Kulai Fishing Harbour and a 150-bed multi-specialty hospital, benefiting thousands of local residents.

The Port’s performance under his stewardship has been outstanding. In FY 2024–25, NMPA handled a record 46.01 million metric tons (MMT) of cargo, achieved an all-time high total income of ₹1,102.98 crore, and reported a net surplus after tax of ₹420.57 crore, nearly double the figures from 2020–21. Operational efficiency has also seen a significant boost, with reduced pre-berthing delays, faster vessel turnaround, and increased container traffic.

During the awards ceremony, Dr. Ramana expressed his gratitude, attributing NMPA’s success to the collective dedication of the port fraternity, employees, stevedores, and public-private partnership (PPP) operators, and dedicated the awards to their relentless hard work.

The National Awards for Excellence in Ports & Shipping, organized by the World HRD Congress & Transformance Forums, are among the most esteemed accolades in India’s maritime sector, recognizing performance, innovation, and leadership. NMPA’s recognition as Major Port of the Year and Dr. Ramana’s honor as CEO of the Year not only celebrate their remarkable achievements but also reinforce the Port’s commitment to “Port-led Prosperity” for the nation.

As NMPA steps into its 50th year, these awards reflect a continued journey towards operational excellence, sustainable growth, and leadership in the Indian maritime industry setting a high standard for ports nationwide.