Union Minister Sonowal unveils VOC Port’s Coffee Table Book; Port showcases Sustainability & Skilling initiatives

By Admin

11 Sep, 2025

VOC Port, one of India’s leading maritime gateways, marked a significant milestone today as Shri Sarbananda Sonowal, Hon’ble Union Minister of Ports, Shipping & Waterways, unveiled the Port’s Coffee Table Book. The publication beautifully chronicles VOC Port’s journey towards sustainability, innovation, and inclusive growth, highlighting its commitment to environmental stewardship and community empowerment.

A Port Leading the Green Transition

The Coffee Table Book captures VOC Port’s pioneering sustainability initiatives, including:

• Adoption of renewable energy to reduce carbon emissions.
  
  

• Effective waste management practices for cleaner operations.
  
  

• Enforcement of a strict zero-plastic policy, making VOC Port the first Plastic-Free Port in India.
  
  

Through these measures, VOC Port has set new benchmarks in eco-friendly port management, reinforcing India’s ambition to build greener maritime infrastructure.

Empowering Youth Through Skilling

Beyond sustainability, VOC Port is equally focused on nurturing talent and improving employability in the maritime and logistics sector. In partnership with the Centre of Excellence in Maritime & Shipbuilding (CEMS), the Port has been conducting industry-relevant training programmes for local youth.

Recently, a valedictory function was held for the Data Entry training programme, where successful candidates were awarded certificates. Remarkably, most of the participants have already secured placements in reputed organisations, including Flipkart, demonstrating the tangible impact of these initiatives on livelihoods.

New Training Programmes for Future-Ready Skills

Taking forward this mission, the Chairperson of VOC Port inaugurated new training programmes to groom Export-Import and Warehouse Executives. Over the next few months, more than 175 youth are expected to benefit from these targeted skill development courses, equipping them for rewarding careers in trade and logistics.

Minister Sonowal’s Remarks

Commending VOC Port’s achievements, Shri Sonowal said:

“VOC Port is not only setting benchmarks in green port operations but also creating pathways of opportunity for local youth. This synergy of sustainability and skill development reflects the Ministry’s vision for holistic growth in the maritime sector.”

A Vision for Holistic Growth

VOC Port’s twin focus on sustainability and skilling underscores its role as a forward-looking port that balances environmental responsibility with socio-economic progress. By fostering green practices and enabling skill-based empowerment, the Port is shaping a model of inclusive growth for India’s maritime future.