Sri K. J. George was welcomed by Smt. S. Shanthi, Deputy Chairperson, NMPA, along with senior port officials. During his visit, the Minister toured the port’s operational areas and gained a first-hand understanding of its functioning, cargo handling operations and infrastructure. He also visited the Cruise Terminal, where he was briefed on the facilities and arrangements supporting cruise tourism through New Mangalore Port. The visit highlighted the port’s growing role not only as a key maritime gateway but also as an important contributor to Karnataka’s tourism potential.   The Minister subsequently held a meeting with the Port Management, during which discussions covered various matters related to port operations, infrastructure development and the port’s role in supporting the regional economy and tourism sector.   Sri K. J. George was accompanied by Dr. Ramprasath Manohar, IAS, Secretary to Tourism, Government of Karnataka; Shri Darshan H. V., IAS, Deputy Commissioner, Dakshina Kannada District; Shri Ivan D’Souza, Member of Legislative Council; Shri M. A. Gafoor, Chairman, Karavali Development Board, Mangaluru; and former MLA Shri J. R. Lobo, along with senior officials from the Department of Tourism and various State Government bodies.

The visit underscored the importance of strengthening coordination between the port and the State’s tourism and infrastructure agencies to further leverage New Mangalore Port’s potential for regional economic development and cruise tourism.