Media Release
Mangaluru, Jul 6: Mangalore Refinery and Petrochemicals Limited (MRPL) commemorated the 135th birth anniversary of Bharat Ratna Dr B R Ambedkar with reverence and enthusiasm at the MRPL Employees’ Recreation Centre (MERC).
The programme was presided over by Mundkur Shyamprasad Kamath, managing director, MRPL. Dr Vaddagere Nagarajaiah, eminent researcher, ethnographer, writer and social activist, was the chief guest. Nandakumar V Pillai, director (Refinery), MRPL, and Dr B S Hemalatha, deputy director, Social Welfare Department, Dakshina Kannada, were the guests of honour.
The event commenced with prize distribution to winners of various competitions, followed by the welcome address by Surya Narayana, GM – Admin. Floral tributes were offered to Dr Ambedkar’s portrait after the ceremonial lighting of the lamp.
As part of the celebrations, MRPL felicitated 20 meritorious students, comprising 10 SSLC and 10 PUC students, who secured more than 90% marks. Eminent social workers were also honoured for their contribution to community welfare and social upliftment.
Addressing the gathering, Nandakumar V Pillai highlighted Dr Ambedkar’s contributions to social justice, education, constitutional governance and ethical leadership. Dr B S Hemalatha spoke on Dr Ambedkar’s pioneering role in advancing women’s rights and empowerment.
Delivering the keynote address, Dr Vaddagere Nagarajaiah underlined the continuing relevance of Dr Ambedkar’s ideals of equality, liberty, fraternity and social justice. He also highlighted Dr. Ambedkar’s contributions to labour reforms, water resource development, economic thought and women’s welfare, while appreciating MRPL’s role in strengthening India’s energy security.
In his presidential address, Mundkur Shyamprasad Kamath reaffirmed MRPL’s commitment to building an inclusive, equitable and progressive workplace inspired by the ideals of Bharat Ratna Dr B R Ambedkar.
The programme concluded with a vote of thanks by Dharanendra R A, general secretary, MSSEWA. The celebrations were followed by a theatrical performance titled EEDI by M/s Sumanasa, Kodavoor, Udupi, which was widely appreciated by the audience. Naveen Shankar Naik compered.