Minister Shantanu Thakur reviews JNPA projects, signs MoUs, and launches new initiatives to boost India’s maritime trade.
On January 29, 2025, Shantanu Thakur, Union Minister of State for Ports, Shipping, and Waterways, visited Jawaharlal Nehru Port Authority (JNPA), India’s Best Performing Port. During his visit, he reviewed ongoing projects, engaged with stakeholders, and participated in key agreements.
Progress on Vadhvan Port:
JNPA Chairman & CMD VPPL, Mr. Unmesh Sharad Wagh, presented updates on the Vadhvan Port project, highlighting its ahead-of-schedule progress. The minister honoured Govind Bodke, IAS, and Balasaheb Patil, IPS, for their roles in securing environmental clearances and public hearings for VPPL.
Strategic MoUs Signed:
- Skill Development: Yashwantrao Chavan Maharashtra Open University and VPPL signed an MoU to launch skill-based training programs, ensuring a future-ready maritime workforce.
- Infrastructure Development: VPPL and ITD Cementation India signed an agreement for nearshore reclamation and shore protection at Vadhvan Port.
Stakeholder Engagement & Maritime Growth:
At a stakeholder meeting, Mr. Thakur emphasised ports as economic gateways and lauded JNPA’s role in advancing India’s maritime trade. He reiterated the government’s commitment to enhancing trade capacity, infrastructure, and global competitiveness.
New Projects Launched:
The minister performed a groundbreaking ceremony for the Entrance Gate Building at JNPA’s Landing Jetty, featuring recreational spaces, security enhancements, and improved passenger amenities.
He also visited GTI, one of JNPA’s most efficient container terminals, along with key facilities such as the Centralised Parking Plaza, SEZ, and Free Trade Warehousing Zone.
This visit underscores the government’s focus on modernising port infrastructure and boosting India’s maritime sector.
