Chennai: The Union Minister of Ports, Shipping & Waterways, Sarbananda Sonowal, announced today that double Olympic medalist in shooting, Manu Bhaker, has been appointed as the Brand Ambassador for the Ministry of Ports, Shipping & Waterways. Bhaker, who recently won medals at the Summer Olympics in Paris, is the daughter of a marine engineer, making her a fitting representative for India’s maritime sector.
During the announcement, Sonowal expressed immense pride in Bhaker’s appointment, stating, “It is a moment of great pride for every Indian as well as for every member of India’s maritime sector that Manu Bhaker, the daughter of a proud marine sailor, is now going to champion the marine sector of India. Her remarkable achievements in the Olympics, being the first Indian to win two individual medals, reflect the values of discipline, perseverance, and humility instilled in her from her upbringing in a marine family.”
The Minister highlighted how Bhaker’s story can inspire the youth of India to explore opportunities within the maritime industry, which plays a vital role in achieving the nation’s vision of Atmanirbhar Bharat by 2047. Bhaker’s journey aligns with Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s broader vision for India’s self-reliance.
Honoring Women Achievers in Maritime and Sports
Sonowal also participated in an event organized by the Chennai Port Authority in collaboration with Kamarajar Port Authority, celebrating the accomplishments of women in the maritime sector and other fields contributing to nation-building. Among the honorees were Lt Commander Vartika Joshi, the first woman to captain INSV Tarini’s Indian crew; Sonali Banerjee, the first woman marine engineer in Indian Mercantile Marine history; Captain Teena Joey, General Manager at JM Baxi Group, Chennai; and Thulasimathi Murugesan and Manisha Ramadass, Paralympic medalists in badminton.
Sonowal applauded the contributions of these women, stating, “The Nari Shakti of Bharat has always been a tremendous source of power. These women achievers give hope that nothing is impossible. Their stories will inspire women and youth to contribute to the vision of Atmanirbhar Bharat by 2047.”
Swachata Hi Seva 2024 and Cleanliness Drive
As part of the event, Sonowal led the “Swachata Hi Seva 2024” initiative to commemorate Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s birthday. Hundreds of employees participated in the drive, taking a pledge toward cleanliness and sustainability at Chennai Port Hospital. Over 400 saplings were planted as part of the Ek Ped Maa Ke Naam initiative, while more than 500 women, including students from Indian Maritime University and AMET University, took part in the “Harnessing Nari Shakti for the Development of the Nation” program.
Celebrating India’s Paralympic Success
Thulasimathi Murugesan, silver medalist in the Paris Paralympics, expressed her gratitude to Prime Minister Modi for his support of Indian athletes. “From four medals in Rio 2016 to 29 in the Paris Paralympics, it has been a remarkable journey for our athletes. I want to thank our Prime Minister for his unwavering support, which has empowered us to perform well,” she said. Murugesan also praised the government for providing necessary resources such as nutrition, training, and equipment, while noting the personal involvement of the Prime Minister in motivating athletes.
