India takes lead to preserve Global Maritime Legacy with the India Maritime Heritage Conclave
NEW DELHI : The inaugural day of the much-awaited India Maritime Heritage Conclave 2024 (IMHC 2024), organised by the Ministry of Ports, Shipping and Waterways (MoPSW) at Yashobhoomi, Dwarka, New Delhi, commenced on 11th December, with a special session addressed by Hon’ble Vice President Shri Jagdeep Dhankhar, who emphasised the importance of preserving India’s maritime legacy for future generations. The conclave that brought together key ministers, prominent speakers, maritime experts & thought leaders from across the globe highlighted India’s rich seafaring legacy, its pivotal role in shaping cultural and economic exchanges across the world, and its vision for sustainable maritime innovation, underscoring its emergence as a maritime powerhouse.
“India stands today as an emerging maritime powerhouse, strategically leveraging our geographical location and advanced infrastructure to spearhead global maritime initiatives. Through sophisticated maritime diplomacy, particularly initiatives like Sagar, security and growth for all in the region, we are fostering robust international partnerships and ensuring regional stability across the Indo-Pacific. Rule-based order is quintessence, and India is taking initiatives and lead to ensure that there is larger subscription to rule-based regime on seas. I am quite confident and optimistic that this two-day Maritime Heritage Conclave 2024 renews our collective dedication to honouring our maritime legacy while advancing towards sustainable innovation”, said the Hon’ble Vice President, Jagdeep Dhankar.
The day also witnesses special message from the Prime Minister of India, Shri Narendra Modi highlighted that with a strategic location in the Indian Ocean and a legacy of trade and cultural exchange, India is poised to strengthen its maritime framework. The development of the National Maritime Heritage Complex at Lothal, coupled with initiatives like the India-Middle East-Europe Economic Corridor, reflects India’s growing role in global maritime affairs. The Conclave offers a platform to celebrate this heritage while charting a path toward realizing India’s vision of becoming a leading maritime hub by 2047.
PM Modi said, “As we march ahead towards realising the vision of building Viksit Bharat by 2047, further strengthening the maritime framework for the 21st century is integral to our efforts. I am sure that the deliberations at the Conclave will enable India to not just take pride in her rich maritime heritage, but also draw up a futuristic blueprint that enables her to become a global hub and a leading maritime player.”
The India Maritime Heritage Conclave fosters collaboration with key ministries like Labour and Employment, Youth Affairs and Education, and Culture and Tourism and highlights opportunities for skill development and employment, aligning with the Labour Ministry’s goals of creating sustainable livelihoods. It also inspires youth to explore maritime careers and integrates heritage into education. In partnership with the Ministry of Culture and Tourism, the event promotes India’s maritime legacy as a catalyst for cultural preservation and tourism. Together, these ministries create a unified framework for national development, youth empowerment, and global engagement.
Inaugurating the conclave, Sarbananda Sonowal, Union Minister for Ports, Shipping and Waterways, highlighted India’s commitment to preserving and promoting its maritime heritage. Speaking about the significance of this initiative, Shri Sonowal said, “Our rich maritime heritage is not merely a story of our past but a beacon for our future. This conclave reaffirms India’s leadership in maritime innovation and conservation, advancing sustainable practices while preserving our cultural legacy for future generations. Under the visionary guidance and leadership of our hon’ble Prime Minister Narender Modi Ji, National Maritime Heritage Complex at Lothal is a step in that direction, a place where we will bring our maritime past to life for future generations. It will showcase the brilliance of our ancestors while inspiring young minds to carry forward their legacy.”
He further added, “The ocean is not just a resource; it is a legacy—a bridge that connects the past with the future, uniting civilizations, fostering innovation, and shaping our identity as a maritime nation. By preserving our maritime heritage, we not only honour our ancestors but also unlock immense potential for tourism, education, and youth engagement. Let us inspire future generations to embrace this legacy, transforming it into a beacon of sustainable growth, cultural exchange, and global leadership.”
The inaugural session included addresses by prominent dignitaries. Gajendra Singh Shekhawat, Union Minister of Culture and Tourism, highlighted the integration of maritime heritage into cultural tourism, stating “Our maritime past serves as a source of inspiration and pride, fostering global appreciation of India’s unique legacy. India’s rich maritime heritage, from the ancient dockyards of Lothal to the cultural exchanges fostered by our forefathers, symbolizes centuries of economic prosperity and global connectivity. As we establish the National Maritime Heritage Complex in Lothal, we honor this legacy while setting the course for a future of innovation, sustainability, and collaboration. Our oceans, a source of prosperity and security, hold the key to addressing global challenges and opportunities. Let us celebrate and safeguard this legacy, ensuring India’s maritime influence continues to shape the world stage.”
Dr. Mansukh Mandaviya, Union Minister for Labor and Employment and Youth Affairs and Sports, spoke about the potential of maritime studies in engaging youth, saying, “Understanding our maritime roots empowers the youth to connect with their heritage and innovate for a sustainable future. India’s southern states, under the visionary leadership of dynasties like the Cholas, have long championed trade expansion, connecting India to distant shores and fostering a legacy of maritime excellence. As the only country with an ocean named after it, our heritage shines through marvels like Lothal, the world’s oldest manmade dockyard, and the Malam community’s dedication to sharing maritime knowledge with the world. This wealth of ancient wisdom is a source of immense pride and inspiration for building our maritime future.”
Shri Bhupendra Patel, Chief Minister of Gujarat said, “The vision for India’s maritime future is closely aligned with the government of India’s goal of receiving self-reliant India, ensuring sustainable and resilient ports, modern shipping and the preservation of our rich maritime tradition, we recognize that maritime development and heritage go hand in hand, and this conflict is a step towards bridging the past and the future together. Let us walk towards ensuring that India’s maritime legacy continues to thrive for generation to come.”
Shri Shantanu Thakur, the Union Minister of State for Ports, Shipping, and Waterways, underlined India’s historic contributions to global trade networks, while T K Ramachandran, Secretary, MoPSW, welcomed participants and set the stage for the event. R Lakshmanan, Joint Secretary, Ministry of Ports, Shipping and Waterways delivered a vote of thanks, appreciating the collaborative efforts in organizing the conclave.
The keynote sessions and panel discussions on India’s maritime legacy seamlessly interconnected, offering a comprehensive exploration of the nation’s historic contributions to global trade, culture, and innovation. Prof. Vasant Shinde set the stage with an enlightening presentation on India’s maritime heritage as depicted in the Lothal Museum, followed by Eric Staples, who delved into India’s connections with the Western Indian Ocean. Complementing these insights, Dr. Rajiv Nigam examined the influence of coastal environments on human cultures, weaving a multidimensional narrative of maritime history.
Building on these themes, the panel discussions also brought together eminent experts to further explore India’s ancient maritime practices and trade networks. Topics such as Hinterland and External Trade Links of the Harappan Civilization, India’s Contact with the Roman World and Its Impact, and Trade and Cultural Relations between India, Southeast Asia, and Beyond highlighted India’s pivotal role as a global connector through its vibrant maritime traditions.
The conclave witnessed the participation of four state ministers from Goa, Arunachal Pradesh, Bihar, and Uttar Pradesh. The event also marked the inaugural meeting of the Apex Committee for the development of the National Maritime Heritage Conclave. An exhibition featuring over 20 stalls showcased India’s shipbuilding techniques, navigation systems, and historical trade routes, inaugurated by distinguished dignitaries. The day concluded with a vibrant cultural program celebrating India’s coastal traditions, blending scholarship with festivity. Representatives from 11 countries joined the two-day conclave held in the capital, highlighting the event’s international significance.
Day 2 of the conclave promises engaging discussions on themes such as the Cholas’ contributions to maritime history, advancements in traditional shipbuilding, and the evolution of naval power in India. A valedictory session will summarize the key takeaways and outline a roadmap for preserving and promoting India’s maritime legacy.