Proposal to establish Central Maritime University in Mangaluru named after Rani Abbakka: MP Brijesh Chowta

Proposal to establish Central Maritime University in Mangaluru named after Rani Abbakka: MP Brijesh Chowta

Mangalore Today News Network

Mangaluru, April 12, 2025: A proposal has been submitted to the Central government to establish a Central Maritime University in Mangaluru, named after the legendary warrior Rani Abbakka, announced Dakshina Kannada MP Capt. Brijesh Chowta on Friday.

Speaking at a workshop on ‘Maritime Adversities’ organized by the New Mangalore Port Authority (NMPA), Capt. Chowta emphasized the need for a Central Maritime University in a region renowned for its educational legacy. Highlighting that New Mangalore Port is currently celebrating its Golden Jubilee, he said this was a fitting time to establish such an institution. The proposed university would focus on maritime studies, including oceanography. He added that a detailed project report has already been submitted to Union Minister of Shipping and Waterways, Sarbananda Sonowal.

Addressing the need for maritime infrastructure, Capt. Chowta noted the presence of a private ship repair unit in Chennai and said he is actively working with the authorities to set up a similar facility in Mangaluru. “A ship repair unit will create significant employment opportunities in the region,” he added.

Port Development and Connectivity

Referring to the transformation of Gujarat’s ports under Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s leadership as then Chief Minister, Capt. Chowta reiterated his commitment to developing New Mangalore Port on similar lines. He stressed that enhancing connectivity between Mangaluru and Bengaluru is a key priority, along with establishing a direct link between Hubballi and Ankola. “These networks will not only boost the growth of Mangalore Port but also contribute to the overall development of Karnataka,” he said. He urged the NMPA and other stakeholders to take a strategic approach towards achieving these developmental goals for the coastal region.

NMPA Chairman A.V. Ramana, while assuring the port’s support for development initiatives, highlighted the significant growth of the port. The net profit after tax rose from ₹101 crore five years ago to ₹445 crore in the 2024–25 financial year. He said the port saw substantial improvements across various operational parameters and has set a target of handling 100 million metric tonnes of cargo by 2030.

Mr. Ramana also pointed out the role of New Mangalore Port, in collaboration with the Coast Guard and Indian Navy, in responding to distress calls at sea. However, he cautioned that such efforts should not come at the risk of endangering coastal communities by allowing the berthing of rogue vessels, which could pose threats to both local residents and the coastal ecosystem.