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Government of India

Ministry of Ports, Shipping and Waterways

“Lothal to become Global Hub for Maritime

Union Ministers Shri Sarbananda Sonowal along with Dr

Ministers visit INS Nishank, Lothal Jetty Walkway, and Museum

Ministry of Ports, Shipping & Waterways is developing NMHC

Posted On: 28 DEC 2024 5:40PM by PIB Delhi

The Union Minister of Ports, Shipping and Waterways, Shri Sarbananda Sonowal along with the
Minister of Labour & Employment and Youth Affairs, Dr Mansukh Mandaviya and the Chief
Minister of Gujarat, Shri Bhupendra Patel made a joint review to assess the progress of the
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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. Shri 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, Shri 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.”

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Highlighting the socio-economic impact of the project, Shri 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 Shri 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 Shri 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 Shri Modi ji towards transforming
India into becoming an Atmanirbhar Bharat by 2047,” the Union Minister added.

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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.

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GDH/THR

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