India's Maritime Heritage Revived: IMHC Concludes Successfully
New Delhi: The India Maritime Heritage Conclave (IMHC) concluded successfully, marking a significant step towards reviving academic focus on India's rich maritime history. Union Minister of Ports, Shipping & Waterways, Sarbananda Sonowal, emphasized India’s 5,000-year-old maritime legacy, neglected for decades but now gaining global recognition under Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s leadership.
Sonowal highlighted how India's maritime advancements, from ancient bead-making and shipbuilding techniques to modern port infrastructure, reflect the nation’s rise as a global maritime power. "India's maritime history predates the Indus Valley Civilisation, showcasing our role as a global connector," he stated, pointing to the upcoming National Maritime Heritage Complex (NMHC) in Lothal as a testament to this legacy.
The NMHC, located at the world’s first man-made dock, aims to rediscover and celebrate India’s ancient naval achievements and foster global cooperation. Prominent maritime nations, including Greece, Italy, and the UK, joined the conclave to explore sustainable solutions for contemporary challenges in the maritime sector.
With sustainability as a core theme, IMHC aligned with India’s Net Zero goals, showcasing how ancient innovations can guide modern practices. Experts from 11 nations discussed India’s maritime history as a blueprint for shared growth and sustainable ocean usage.
Sonowal added, “Our rich history as pioneers in maritime exploration inspires pride among seafarers. Today, our rapidly growing shipping sector aspires to lead the global maritime industry sustainably.”
The conclave underscored India's vision to become a major maritime nation by 2030, blending ancient wisdom with modern advancements to build a sustainable future. The NMHC at Lothal promises to showcase this enduring legacy, reestablishing India’s role as a global maritime leader.
