How Did Bengal's SMPK Win the Maritime Excellence Award?
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Synopsis
Discover how the Syama Prasad Mookerjee Port in Kolkata triumphed during India Maritime Week 2025, earning the prestigious Maritime Excellence Award in the Heritage Category. This accolade celebrates the port's rich history and its vital contribution to India's maritime growth. Join us as we delve into the achievements that set SMPK apart!
Key Takeaways
- SMPK recognized for maritime excellence.
- Highest cargo traffic among Major Ports in India.
- Significant growth in cargo handling.
- Rich cultural and industrial legacy.
- Strong government support for maritime initiatives.
Kolkata, Nov 1 (NationPress) The Syama Prasad Mookerjee Port (SMPK), recognized as the oldest operational 'Major Port' in India, has clinched the Maritime Excellence Award in the Heritage Category during the India Maritime Week 2025.
This prestigious award acknowledges SMPK's significant role in the advancement of India's maritime sector and its rich cultural heritage.
Despite facing numerous challenges, including a lengthy and shallow navigation route to the sea along the River Hooghly, the port has consistently excelled.
Following an exceptional performance in the fiscal year 2024-25, SMPK achieved the highest cargo traffic among the 12 Major Ports in India during the first quarter of 2025-26.
From April to June 2025, the port managed to handle 17.186 million metric tonnes of cargo across its two facilities in Kolkata and Haldia, marking a remarkable growth of 21.21 percent compared to the same period in 2024-25.
The award ceremony was graced by Sarbananda Sonowal, the Union Minister for ports, shipping, and waterways, along with Minister of State Shantanu Thakur, Rathendra Raman, Chairperson, and Samrat Rahi, Deputy Chairperson of SMPK.
“This accolade adds a new jewel to SMPK’s legacy, celebrating its 155 years of unwavering service, which has transformed it from a historic maritime gateway of Eastern India to a forward-thinking port that underpins trade, connectivity, and the economic growth of the region. Over the years, SMPK has not only fortified India’s maritime capabilities but has also become a living symbol of the nation’s industrial and cultural evolution,” remarked a senior official from SMPK.
The port includes the Kolkata Dock System (KDS) and the Haldia Dock Complex (HDC), along with extensive landholdings in Kolkata, Howrah, and Haldia, where numerous port-based industries and warehouses have flourished.
Point of View
It's crucial to recognize the significance of the Syama Prasad Mookerjee Port's recent award. This honor reflects not just a local achievement but a national commitment to advancing India's maritime capabilities. The port's resilience in the face of challenges illustrates its pivotal role in driving economic progress and connectivity in the region, reinforcing our belief in the enduring potential of Indian infrastructure.
NationPress
02/11/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the Maritime Excellence Award?
The Maritime Excellence Award is a prestigious recognition given during the India Maritime Week to honor significant contributions to the maritime sector.
Why did SMPK receive this award?
SMPK received the award for its long-standing contributions to India's maritime growth and its rich cultural legacy.
What was SMPK's cargo handling achievement?
SMPK handled 17.186 million metric tonnes of cargo in the first quarter of 2025-26, marking a 21.21% increase from the previous year.
Who presented the Maritime Excellence Award to SMPK?
The award was presented by Union Minister Sarbananda Sonowal and other key officials during the India Maritime Week 2025.
How long has SMPK been operational?
SMPK has been operational for 155 years, making it the oldest Major Port in India.
