NMPA returns as title sponsor for sixth Indian Open of Surfing
Mangaluru: The sixth Indian Open of Surfing (IOS), India's premier national surfing competition sanctioned by the Surfing Federation of India (SFI), the sport's governing body in the country, announced the continued support of key sponsors.
The New Mangalore Port Authority (NMPA) returns as the title sponsor for the second consecutive year. Karnataka Tourism, a long-time supporter of surfing in the state, comes on board as the 'presented by' partner for the sixth year running, while Cycle Pure Agarbatti extends its association as the 'powered by' sponsor. The event will be hosted by Mantra Surf Club and organised by the Surfing Swami Foundation under the aegis of SFI, from May 30 to June 1, at Tannirbhavi Eco Beach.
NMPA chairman Venkata Ramana Akkaraju said, "We firmly believe surfing can transform Mangaluru into a global destination for ocean sports and eco-tourism. We look forward to another impactful edition." Deputy commissioner Mullai Muhilan MP said, "The state is committed to promoting adventure tourism and coastal development through such platforms."
Rammohan Paranjape, VP of Surfing Federation of India and director of Mantra Surf Club, said, "Hosting it at the state's local beaches reflects our commitment to nurturing local surf culture.
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We are confident this year's edition will further elevate India's standing on the global surfing map."
The NMPA Indian Open of Surfing carries even more significance following India's milestone achievement in 2024, when the national surf team earned its first-ever quotas for a multi-sport event at the Asian Surf Championship in the Maldives, securing two spots for the 2026 Asian Games. With rankings on the line and qualification opportunities at stake for the upcoming Asian Surf Championship—the final selection event for the Asian Games—this year's IOS becomes a crucial battleground.
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