The Ministry of Ports, Shipping and Waterways is coming with its 1st ever India Maritime Heritage Conclave 2024 (IMHC) that aims to bring together prominent speakers, maritime experts & thought leaders from across the globe to discuss & celebrate India's seafaring traditions. Union Minister for Ports, Shipping and Waterways (MoPSW) Shri Sarbananda Sonowal in the august presence of Vice President of India Shri Jagdeep Dhankhar, Union Minister of Culture and Tourism Shri Gajendra Singh Shekhawat, Union Minister Labor and Employment and Youth Affairs and Sports Dr. Mansukh Mandaviya, Shri T.K. Ramachandran, Secretary MoPSW, Chief Minister of Gujarat Bhupendra Patel. Will officially launch this maiden India Maritime Heritage conclave scheduled between December 11 and 12, 2024 Yashobhoomi Convention Center in New Delhi.

The objective of this is to delve into India’s past maritime heritage through insightful sessions, discussions and compelling narratives that highlights the lives of coastal communities, trade routes, and pivotal maritime events that have played a vital role in shaping its cultural and economic trajectory. This conclave will aim to showcase India’s advancements in shipbuilding, navigation, and trade, connecting it with Southeast Asia, West Asia, Africa, Europe, and beyond. Furthermore, it would highlight how ancient ports like Lothal and Muziris were hubs of commerce and cultural exchange, spreading philosophies like Buddhism and practices like Ayurveda and how Indian sailors pioneered navigation using monsoon winds and innovative tools, shaping global maritime routes.

This prestigious event will bring together global experts, researchers, and practitioners to explore India’s 10,000-year-old maritime legacy, addressing diverse topics such as the influence of language, literature, art, and architecture on maritime culture. The conclave will also showcase the unique traditions, cuisine, sports, and clothing of India’s coastal states.

Speaking about the upcoming Conclave, Shri Sarbananda Sonowal, Union Minister for Ports, Shipping and Waterways (MoPSW) said, “Our rich maritime heritage is not merely a story of our past but a beacon for our future. Through this conclave, we reaffirm India’s commitment to preserving our oceans, advancing sustainable maritime practices, and positioning our nation as a global leader in maritime innovation and conservation. In line with the Prime Minister’s vision of India as a “Vishwaguru”, the conclave is set to be a milestone event in promoting India’s leadership in the field of maritime heritage conservation. This will not only enhance India’s global maritime standing but also foster collaboration on critical issues like ocean health, marine biodiversity, and responsible resource use.”

Spread across two days at Yashobhoomi, New Delhi, the conclave features a series of sessions exploring diverse themes, from ancient trade networks to contemporary maritime advancements. Day 1 will set the stage with keynote addresses on topics like India's maritime heritage as depicted in the Lothal Museum, ancient shipping networks, and the impact of coastal environments on human culture. Panel discussions delve into areas such as India’s early trade with the Greco-Bactrian and Roman worlds, oceanic mythologies, and the strategic role of Europeans in reshaping maritime commerce.

Day 2 will continue with engaging discussions on themes such as the evolution of Indian naval power, the Cholas’ contributions to maritime history, and advancements in traditional shipbuilding techniques. The sessions also examine the development of lighthouse infrastructure under the Sagarmala program and the Maratha navy's legacy. The program includes special segments like a talk on stitched boat construction techniques and a discussion on the upcoming National Maritime Museum at Lothal. With a balance of scholarly insight and practical focus, the conclave promises to foster meaningful dialogue, shaping India's leadership in maritime conservation and innovation.

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