Former NMPA chairman Akkaraju takes charge as Indian Maritime University Vice-Chancellor

Dr Venkata Ramana Akkaraju, former chairman of New Mangalore Port Authority (NMPA), assumed office as Vice-Chancellor of the Indian Maritime University (IMU) in Chennai on 3 November 2026, bringing experience in port administration and maritime management to the institution.

The President of India, in her capacity as Visitor of the university, appointed Akkaraju for five years or until he reaches the age of 70, whichever is earlier. An IMU notification dated 3 November confirmed that he took charge that morning.

He takes responsibility for a Central University under the Ministry of Ports, Shipping and Waterways, with a mandate covering maritime education, training and research. The institution serves both seagoing professions and shore-based industries, including ports, shipping management, logistics, ship design and marine engineering.

IMU operates as a teaching and affiliating university, combining programmes delivered through its own campuses with those offered by affiliated institutions. Its academic responsibilities therefore extend across several parts of India’s maritime training system.

This story was originally published by Maritime Gateway. Read the full story at Maritime Gateway →