NewzVille Desk
Jawaharlal Nehru Port Authority (JNPA) celebrated India’s Largest Container Port on its 36th Foundation Day on 26 May, 2025. The event was held in the august presence of Union Cabinet Minister for Ports, Shipping and Waterways, Sarbananda Sonowal; Union Minister of State for Ports, Shipping and Waterways, Shantanu Thakur and Secretary, Ministry of Ports, Shipping and Waterways, T K Ramachandran.
Addressing the gathering Sarbananda Sonowal stated, “My heartfelt congratulations to the JNPA family on completing 36 years of dedicated service. Guided by the Hon’ble Prime Minister’s vision of ‘Vocal for Local’ and ‘Local to Global,’ JNPA has transformed from a port into a powerful engine of national development. Its rise as India’s largest container port reflects the strength of its ecosystem, driven by leadership, innovation, and strong private sector participation.” He appreciated JNPA for the continuously serving the nation. “JNPA stands as a role model in building a self-reliant, globally competitive maritime sector. This growth also brings greater responsibility — to lead, inspire, and raise the bar for the entire maritime industry. The time to act is now — with unity, planning, and purpose, India can become a top 5 maritime nation in the world”, he stated.
Shantanu Thakur in his address said, “The 36th Foundation Day of JNPA is not just a celebration — it reflects the nation’s growing interest in the port sector and the vital role it plays in our economic journey. As 70% of trade moves through our ports, clarity of vision and strength in execution are critical. India’s rise as the world’s 4th largest economy is a result of decisive leadership and visionary thinking, values embodied by JNPA’s team under the leadership of its Chairman. This is the spirit of Viksit Bharat.”
T K Ramachandran, in his speech said, “JNPA has stood out as a shining example in the port sector. Aligned with the Hon’ble Prime Minister’s Amrit Kaal vision, JNPA has ticked every box — from capacity enhancement and sustainability to digitalisation and port-led industrialisation. With 100% PPP cargo handling, the upcoming Vadhvan Port, the SEZ, and international linkages like IMEEC and the digital corridor, JNPA truly represents a safe, smart, secure, and sustainable model for the future of Indian ports.”
Chairperson, JNPA, and CMD, VPPL , Unmesh Sharad Wagh said, “At 36, JNPA stands not at a destination, but at a point of deeper responsibility. Our next phase will demand sharper systems thinking, faster decision cycles, and closer alignment with global trade dynamics. We are designing a port ecosystem that can anticipate, adapt, and absorb the complexity of modern logistics. This anniversary is a chance to look back briefly, but more importantly, to recalibrate for the long road ahead.”
A Coffee Table Book was unveiled featuring 36 Years Journey of JNPA. A special screening of the JNPA Corporate Film showcased the port’s infrastructure, innovations, sustainability efforts, and its vision for the future.
The event also witnessed the signing of two significant Memorandums of Understanding (MoUs) under the Vadhvan Port Skilling Program. The first MoU, signed between VPPL and Sahyadri Farms, aims to develop the skills of rural youth, farmers, and farm produce companies through targeted training.
The second MoU, signed between VPPL and Rural Enhancers Projects Pvt. Ltd., outlines their intent to participate in the development of a terminal at Vadhvan Port for handling container, bulk, and liquid cargo. It also includes plans to build supporting infrastructure for marine services, intermodal connectivity, and ensure ecosystem sustainability through digital solutions, robust IT infrastructure, and structured manpower training and skill development.