Pics: Anush Pandith
Daijiworld Media Network - Mangaluru (SB)
Mangaluru, Jan 27: The customs commissionerate here on Saturday January 27 celebrated International Customs Day - 2018 at JNC hall, Panambur.
Prof K Umamaheshwar Rao, director, NITK, Suratkal was the chief guest. Suresh P Shirwadkar, chairman, NMPT, Panambur and Dr M Subramanyam, IRS commissioner of customs and central tax, Mangaluru were the guests of honour.
The programme commenced with the lighting of the lamp by the dignitaries on the dais.
In his keynote address Dr Subramanyam said, "Despite the many challenges, the Mangaluru customs commissonerate did a tremendous job of detecting illegal air and seaport activities. It has gained extensive popularity among passengers and stakeholders for its working style. Mangaluru currently has 14 operators and we are planning on adding more to ensure global business does not suffer on account of time consuming procedures. We are now taking an average of 0.54 days for import and 0.64 for export procedures. We know we have to pay more attention to this sector.
"In the case of airport we succeeded in detecting Rs 5.14 crore from smugglers, a major portion of it being in the form of gold. The passenger-friendly attitude of our officers has increased faith in them. Majority of passengers are now aware of customs rules which are followed in airports. As a result of this, majority of the passengers passed through green channels. I think this is an achievement of the customs. I thank all officers and staff for their sincere and dedicated service to air and seaport."
Prof Umamaheshwar said, "The involvement of Indian customs has created a secure business environment which is highly appreciated and by this they are promoting the nation's development. We all know customs policies around the world depend upon nations, but they all have a common motto namely, to stop illegal activities, practices which are world over. This will help prevent negative practices. On this auspicious Customs Day, I congratulate the entire customs department for their achievements and success."
In his address, Suresh P Shirwadkar lauded the service of customs and thanked Mangaluru Commissionerate for a good relationship with New Mangaluru Port authority.
Allen Rajesh Vas, senior intelligence officer of DGGI, Mangaluru unit was then felicitated by the dignitaries.
Letters of appreciation were also given to the officers for their achievements.