The Union Ministry of Ports, Shipping & Waterways has appointed double Olympic medalist shooter Manu Bhaker as its Brand Ambassador. The announcement was made by Union Minister Sarbananda Sonowal during the 4th “Harnessing of the Nari Shakti for the Development of the Nation” event, which took place on September 17, 2024, at the International Cruise Terminal in Chennai, Tamil Nadu. This event celebrated women achievers in various fields.
Celebrating Women in Marine
The event, organized jointly by the Chennai Port Authority and the Kamarajar Port Authority, recognized women who have made significant contributions to the marine sector and other industries. Alongside Bhaker, several other accomplished women were honored, including:
– Lieutenant Commander Vartika Joshi: The first female skipper of the Indian crew on the INSV Tarini.
– Sonali Banerjee: The first female marine engineer in the history of the Indian Mercantile Marine.
– Captain Teena Joey: General Manager, JM Baxi Group, Chennai Branch.
– Thulasimathi Murugesan: Silver medalist in singles badminton at the Paris Paralympics.
– Manisha Ramadass: Bronze medalist in singles badminton at the Paris Paralympics.
– Rupali Raj Joshi: Surveyor, 1 STS Marine Components, Indian Registrar of Shipping.
Manu Bhaker’s Marine Connection
Manu Bhaker’s connection to the marine industry is deeply personal; she is the daughter of a marine engineer, born in Jhajjar, Haryana. Union Minister Sonowal highlighted this relationship, stating, “It is a moment of great pride for every Indian and for every member of India’s maritime sector. Manu Bhaker, a proud daughter of a marine sailor, has been officially appointed as the Ministry’s Brand Ambassador, representing the Indian marine industry.”
