By TIOL News Service

NEW DELHI, DEC 30, 2024: THE Union Minister of Ports, Shipping and Waterways, Sarbananda Sonowal along with the Minister of Labour & Employment and Youth Affairs, Dr Mansukh Mandaviya and the Chief Minister of Gujarat, Bhupendra Patel made a joint review to assess the progress of the National Maritime Heritage Complex (NMHC) in Lothal, Gujarat, on Saturday.

The Ministry of Ports, Shipping, and Waterways, under Sagarmala Programme is developing the National Maritime Heritage Complex, a world-class facility which will showcase India's maritime heritage from ancient to modern times, adopting an innovative "edutainment" approach using cutting-edge technology to spread awareness and attract international tourists.

Lothal, a prominent city of the ancient Indus Valley Civilisation dating back to 2400 BCE, holds historical significance for its advanced dockyard, thriving trade, and renowned bead-making industry. Artifacts such as seals, tools, and pottery unearthed by archaeologists reveal a rich cultural and economic history, making it a pivotal site of the Harappan civilisation.

The Ministers toured key project landmarks, including INS Nishank, the Lothal Jetty Walkway , and the Museum Block. They also interacted with onsite workers to understand their challenges being faced and progress made so far. Sonowal expressed satisfaction with the significant milestones achieved in civil infrastructure development, noting that the project is advancing on schedule.

Boosting Local Involvement and National Heritage

A key focus of the review was the integration of local communities into the project's development. Speaking on the occasion, Sarbananda Sonowal said, " We are committed to ensuring that the NMHC is completed on time and to the highest standards. This project will boost tourism, provide a platform for maritime education, and foster collaboration between India's maritime community and the global industry. It is a crucial step toward making India a leading maritime nation."

Highlighting the socio-economic impact of the project, Sarbananda Sonowal said, " This project will create employment, foster skill development, and empower the youth of Gujarat. The NMHC is a project of national importance, offering tremendous opportunities for growth and learning in the maritime sector. The visionary leadership of PM Narendra Modi ji has ensured that India remains on course towards all round development of the country and that the people reap the fruit of India's developmental story."

The NMHC is poised to become a cornerstone of India's maritime legacy, harmonising cultural and historical significance with economic and educational development. With 65 per cent of Phase 1A already completed, the project is on track to meet its timeline and establish itself as a global beacon of maritime heritage.

"Under the dynamic leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi ji, the government is committed to ensuring the National Maritime Heritage Complex (NMHC) is completed on time and to the highest standards," said Sarbananda Sonowal. "The project will boost tourism, provide a platform for maritime education, and foster greater collaboration between India's maritime community and the global maritime industry. This is a crucial step toward realising the vision of making India a leading maritime nation - boosting the effort led by Modi ji towards transforming India into becoming an Atmanirbhar Bharat by 2047," the Union Minister added.

The Government of India remains steadfast in its commitment to the success of the NMHC, which is expected to boost Gujarat's tourism economy and solidify India's position as a maritime leader on the world stage.

The National Maritime Heritage Complex (NMHC) in Lothal, Gujarat, is set to become an international tourist hotspot, celebrating India's rich maritime legacy. Spanning from ancient civilisations to modern times, the complex will use a unique blend of education and entertainment, incorporating the latest technology to immerse visitors in the country's maritime history.

Designed as a world-class destination under the Sagarmala Programme, NMHC aims to showcase India's naval achievements and cultural connections through interactive exhibits, state-of-the-art displays, and engaging storytelling. This initiative is poised to not only preserve India's maritime heritage but also to attract global tourists and foster a deeper appreciation of its historical significance.

Senior officials of the Ministry of Ports, Shipping, and Waterways, the Ministry of Defence (Navy and Coast Guard), the Government of Gujarat, renowned architect Hafeez Contractor, and Tata Projects Ltd have participated in the review.