V.O. Chidambaranar Port Authority Fondly Remembers ‘Kappalotiya Thamizhan’ on His 155th Birth Anniversary
Tuticorin:
Port Wings News Network:
V.O. Chidambaranar Port Authority (VOCPA) celebrated the 155th Birth Anniversary of V.O. Chidambaranar, fondly remembered as ‘Kappalotiya Thamizhan,’ on 05 September 2026, honouring the enduring legacy of the legendary freedom fighter and his unwavering spirit of patriotism and self-reliance.
Susanta Kumar Purohit, IRSEE, Chairperson, V.O. Chidambaranar Port Authority, garlanded the statue of V.O. Chidambaranar and offered floral tributes at the bust. P. Kavin Maharaj, IOFS, Chief Vigilance Officer, along with senior officials, officers and staff of the Port, school students and teachers, paid homage to the great patriot, remembering his courage, sacrifice and pioneering contribution to India’s maritime history.
In his address, Susanta Kumar Purohit, IRSEE, Chairperson, V.O. Chidambaranar Port Authority, recalled the life, sacrifices and indomitable spirit of V.O. Chidambaranar and his pioneering efforts towards establishing the Swadeshi Steam Navigation Company.
He outlined the VOC Port’s significant achievements in container traffic growth and its initiatives to strengthen maritime infrastructure and capabilities, including the Outer Harbour Development Project and the development of a shipbuilding and ship-repair cluster.
He also highlighted the Port’s efforts towards the green maritime transition through green ammonia, green hydrogen and renewable-energy initiatives, contributing to the vision of an Atmanirbhar Bharat.
Dr. N. Sathammai Priya, Assistant Professor, Cauvery College, Trichy, and Guest of Honour, delivered an inspiring address on the life, contributions and enduring legacy of V.O. Chidambaranar, bringing alive his courage, patriotism and spirit of self-reliance.
The address was keenly received by the school students and served to inspire the younger generation to draw lessons from the life and ideals of the great patriot. P. Kavin Maharaj, IOFS, Chief Vigilance Officer, V.O. Chidambaranar Port Authority, delivered a special address on the occasion, emphasising the enduring relevance of V.O. Chidambaranar’s ideals.
During the programme, Susanta Kumar Purohit released a bulletin on the National Tuberculosis Elimination Programme (NTEP), highlighting the various events and campaigns conducted by the Port in alignment with the objectives of NTEP towards achieving a TB-free India under the Pradhan Mantri TB Mukt Bharat Abhiyaan.
S.P. Mohan Kumar, Secretary, V.O. Chidambaranar Port Authority, welcomed the gathering. The Chairperson distributed prizes to the winners of competitions conducted as part of the Birth Anniversary celebrations. A cultural programme was presented by the students of Harbour Higher Secondary School, showcasing their talent and adding to the festive spirit of the celebrations. Dr. P. Naresh Kumar, Chief Medical Officer, thanked the gathering and expressed his gratitude to all.
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