India Maritime Heritage Conclave

Why in News?

Recently India’s 1^st Maritime Heritage Conclave (IMHC 2024) was held in December 2024 in New Delhi.

• It is the First India Maritime Heritage Conclave.
• Aim – To celebrate India’s maritime legacy and its profound contributions to global trade, culture, and innovation.

India's modern maritime strength includes a 7,500 km coastline, 13 major ports and 200 non-major ports. Indian ports handle 95% of trade volume and contribute 70% of trade value, taking advantage of their strategic location in the Indian Ocean region.

• Nodal ministry – Ministry of Ports, Shipping and Waterways.
• Objectives
  • Showcase entire India's Maritime Legacy
  • Global Cultural Confluence
  • Technological Evolution
  • Spiritual and Cultural Exchange
  • Maritime Heritage Preservation

• 2024 Theme – Towards Understanding India's Position in Global Maritime History.
• Global participation – Representatives from 11 countries.
• Significance – It emphasized on skill development, youth engagement, and cultural preservation to carry over nation’s maritime legacy.

National Maritime Heritage Complex (NMHC)

• Located in – Lothal, Gujarat.
• Focus – To showcase India’s ancient maritime techniques, including shipbuilding and bead-making, reflecting the nation’s role as a global connector.
• It will be one of the world's largest maritime complexes, integrating both historical and modern maritime activities.
• Features
  • 4 thematic galleries.
  • Open Aquatic Gallery and Lighthouse Museum.
  • Eco-resorts, theme parks and Maritime Research Institutes.

Reference

PIB |India Maritime Heritage Conclave 2024