In a notable development for India’s maritime sector, Union Minister of Ports, Shipping & Waterways Sarbananda Sonowal announced today that Manu Bhaker, the celebrated double Olympic medalist in shooting, has been appointed as the new Brand Ambassador for the Ministry of Ports, Shipping & Waterways. Bhaker, who recently won two individual medals at the Summer Olympics in Paris, is the daughter of a marine engineer, further connecting her to the maritime industry.
Minister Sonowal expressed his pride, stating, “It is a moment of great pride for every Indian and every member of India’s maritime sector that Manu Bhaker, the daughter of a marine sailor, is now going to champion the marine sector of India as our Brand Ambassador. Her achievements in shooting reflect values instilled in her by her family’s marine background—values of punctuality, discipline, perseverance, and humility.”
The announcement was made during a ceremony that also celebrated the accomplishments of women achievers across various fields. Minister Sonowal honoured several distinguished women, including Lt Commander Vartika Joshi, the first female skipper of the Indian crew on INSV Tarini; Sonali Banerjee, the first female marine engineer in the Indian Mercantile Marine; Captain Teena Joey, General Manager at JM Baxi Group’s Chennai branch; and Paralympians Thulasimathi Murugesan and Manisha Ramadass, who won silver and bronze medals respectively at the Paris Paralympics. Rupali Raj Joshi, a surveyor with the Indian Registrar of Shipping, was also recognized for her contributions.
Sonowal praised the achievements of these women, highlighting their role in nation-building and their potential to inspire future generations. He emphasised the importance of harnessing the power and potential of women to contribute towards the nation’s goal of becoming Atmanirbhar Bharat by 2047.
Additionally, Minister Sonowal participated in the “Swachata Hi Sewa 2024” initiative, commemorating Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s birthday with a tree-planting drive. Over 400 saplings were planted as part of the ‘Ek Ped Maa Ke Naam’ campaign, and more than 500 women engaged in the “Harnessing Nari Shakti for the Development of the Nation” program, which included participants from Indian Maritime University, AMET University, and Chennai Port Higher Secondary School.
The event was attended by senior officials including TK Ramachandran, Secretary of the Ministry of Ports, Shipping & Waterways; Dr. Malini V Shankar, Vice Chancellor of Indian Maritime University; and Sunil Paliwal, Chairman of Chennai Port Authority and Kamarajar Port Limited.
Thulasimathi Murugesan also commended Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s support for Indian athletes, noting the significant improvement in the country’s performance at the Paralympics and expressing gratitude for the government’s encouragement and resources.
In closing, Minister Sonowal reiterated the government’s commitment to empowering women and advancing the maritime sector. “Through initiatives like these, we aim to not only elevate the profile of India’s maritime industry but also inspire young Indians to pursue careers within it. This aligns with our broader vision of national self-reliance and development, as envisioned by Prime Minister Narendra Modi.”
The ceremony marked a significant step towards fostering greater recognition and support for women in various fields, while also spotlighting the potential of India’s maritime sector to contribute to the nation’s growth and self-reliance.
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