Chief Guest Highlights Port Growth
Shri P. L. Haranadh, Chairman of PPA and Chief Guest of the marathon, reflected on the port’s journey since its foundation stone was laid on January 3, 1962. He emphasized that Paradip Port has grown from a small jetty into one of India’s leading major ports, now the largest in terms of rated capacity, the most cost-efficient, and recording the best berth productivity among Indian major ports. Shri Haranadh noted ongoing modernization, green initiatives, and employee welfare measures, aiming for a 400 MMT capacity by 2030.
He linked the spirit of the marathon to the port’s growth, discipline, and collective participation, praising the enthusiasm of both participants and residents.
Athlete Felicitation and Recognition
The valedictory function saw special felicitation of Odisha sprinter Pratik Maharana, who recently won bronze in the men’s 200 m and was part of India’s 4×100 m relay silver-winning team at the 4th South Asian Senior Athletics Championships 2025. Shri Haranadh personally acknowledged his achievements, reflecting PPA’s commitment to promoting sports talent alongside port development.
Marathon Winners and Results
The 14 km race featured 336 runners, including 280 men and 56 women. In the men’s category, Shri Ashok Dandasena of Odisha Police claimed first place with a timing of 43 minutes 52.2 seconds, followed by Shri Gulson Dung Dung of Ranchi in 44 minutes 11.9 seconds and Shri Rakesh Mahanta of Jharkhand in 44 minutes 18.3 seconds.
In the women’s category, Ms. Anita Das from Jharkhand finished first at 51 minutes 08.4 seconds, followed by Ms. Sandhya Murmu of Mayurbhanj at 54 minutes 24.2 seconds and Ms. Basanti Mandia of Odisha Police in 54 minutes 51.6 seconds. The event highlighted healthy competition and community engagement, emphasizing fitness and sportsmanship.
Organisers and Community Support
The marathon was conducted smoothly under the guidance of Shri H. S. Rout, President of the Paradip Port Sports Council; Dr. D. P. Sethi, Working President of Gopabandhu Kreeda Sansad; and Shri Dhuna Chandra Tarai, Secretary of GKS. Officials from the Odisha Olympic Association supported the event, ensuring technical efficiency and participant safety.
Deputy Chairman Shri T. Venu Gopal and Heads of Departments of PPA also attended the valedictory function, reflecting strong institutional support for sports and community initiatives.
Port Development and Community Engagement
Paradip Port Authority continues to balance port modernization with community development, celebrating milestones like the foundation day through sporting events. The Paradip Marathon fosters a sense of unity, discipline, and collective achievement, aligning with PPA’s broader goals of sustainable growth and local engagement.
