India Maritime Heritage Conclave 2024 Kicks Off in New Delhi

The first day of the India Maritime Heritage Conclave 2024, organized by the Ministry of Ports, Shipping, and Waterways, commenced at Yashobhoomi, Dwarka, New Delhi. The event, which brings together maritime experts, government leaders, and international participants, highlighted India's rich maritime legacy and its role as an emerging maritime powerhouse. Hon'ble Vice President Shri Jagdeep Dhankhar delivered the keynote address, emphasizing the importance of preserving India's maritime heritage for future generations.

Shri Dhankhar said, "India stands today as an emerging maritime powerhouse, leveraging its geographical position and advanced infrastructure to lead global maritime initiatives. Through maritime diplomacy and initiatives like Sagar, we are ensuring regional stability and fostering international partnerships", He also underlined the necessity of a rule-based order for global seas, which is actively promoted by India.

The Conclave included a special message from the Prime Minister of India, Shri Narendra Modi, on the strategic position of India in the Indian Ocean and on its legacy of trade and cultural exchange. He called attention to developments such as the National Maritime Heritage Complex at Lothal and the initiative of the India-Middle East-Europe Economic Corridor as being integral elements of India's growing engagement with global maritime affairs. "Strengthening the maritime framework is integral to our vision of a Viksit Bharat by 2047," PM Modi said, underlining the importance of a futuristic maritime strategy.

Union Minister for Ports, Shipping, and Waterways, Sarbananda Sonowal, inaugurated the event, emphasizing India's commitment to preserving its maritime heritage while embracing sustainable innovation. He pointed out the National Maritime Heritage Complex as a vital step toward showcasing India's maritime past and inspiring future generations. The ocean is not just a resource; it is a legacy that connects past and future", he said, calling for continued focus on sustainable growth and cultural exchange through maritime connections.

The event also saw contributions from key ministers, including Gajendra Singh Shekhawat, Union Minister of Culture and Tourism, who spoke about integrating maritime heritage into cultural tourism. He said that the rich maritime history of India, from the ancient dockyards of Lothal to cultural exchanges with other civilizations, has shaped its global connectivity. Dr. Mansukh Mandaviya, Union Minister for Labor and Employment, spoke about the scope of maritime studies in engaging youth and fostering innovation. Bhupendra Patel, Chief Minister of Gujarat, underlined the alignment of India's maritime vision with the goal of a self-reliant nation.

The keynote addresses and panel discussions on India's maritime legacy in the inaugural session provided scholars such as Prof. Vasant Shinde and Dr. Rajiv Nigam with the opportunity to shed light on the nation's historical contributions to global trade and cultural exchanges. In-depth discussions on topics such as the Harappan civilization's trade links and India's impact on the Roman world were presented.

On its fifth anniversary, the event would also mark the first gathering of the Apex Committee toward the development of the National Maritime Heritage Complex, an endeavor that will further fortify and promote India's maritime legacy. An exposition of more than 20 stalls highlighted India's various shipbuilding techniques, different navigation systems, and previous trade routes.

The day ended with a cultural programme celebrating all the coastal traditions of India and bringing together scholarship and festivity, with the representation from 11 countries underlining its international character.

Day 2 of the conclave will feature discussions on 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 insights and chart a roadmap for the future of India’s maritime heritage.