NEW DELHI: The inaugural edition of India Maritime Heritage Conclave, 2024, organised by the Ministry of Ports, Shipping & Waterways (MoPSW), began with a vision to preserve the Global Maritime Legacy with India taking the lead at the Yashobhoomi here today. The conclave drew experts, policymakers, and maritime enthusiasts from across the globe. The conclave celebrates India’s unparalleled maritime heritage and its enduring contributions to global trade and cultural exchange.

The day featured a special address by Hon’ble Vice President, Jagdeep Dhankhar, who emphasised the importance of preserving India’s maritime legacy for future generations.

Speaking on the occasion, the Vice President said, “India’s maritime history is a cornerstone of our identity as a global leader in trade and connectivity. This conclave is a significant step toward honouring and preserving this rich legacy while charting a course for future maritime innovations. At IMHC, I wish that the stakeholders of maritime sector will celebrate India’s maritime heritage as ‘Global Connector’ to preserve world’s maritime legacy.”

The Prime Minister of India, Narendra Modi, also sent message on the occasion. PM Modi said, “As we march ahead towards realising the vision of building Viksit Bharat by 2047, further strengthening the maritime framework for the 21st century is integral to our efforts. I am sure that the deliberations at the Conclave will enable India to not just take pride in her rich maritime heritage, but also draw up a futuristic blueprint that enables her to become a global hub and a leading maritime player.”

Inaugurating the conclave, Sarbananda Sonowal, Union Minister for Ports, Shipping and Waterways, highlighted India’s commitment to preserving and promoting its maritime heritage.

Speaking about the significance of IMHC, Sarbananda Sonowal said, “India’s rich maritime heritage has always been a beacon of hope for the future of mankind. This conclave reaffirms India’s leadership in maritime innovation and conservation, advancing sustainable practices while preserving our cultural legacy for future generations. As the experts from across the globe gather here, we hope that IMHC takes a pioneering seat to preserve the global maritime heritage. At this conclave, we have an opportunity to hedge our strengths and cross promote our rich heritage via tourism as well as to empower the youth of the country to contribute meaningfully towards celebrating our rich heritage while moving towards an Atmanirbhar Bharat - the vision of our dynamic Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi ji.”

The inaugural session was also addressed by Gajendra Singh Shekhawat, Union Minister of Culture and Tourism, Bhupendra Patel, CM, Gujarat as well as Dr Mansukh Mandaviya, Union Minister for Labor & Employment and Youth Affairs & Sports.

Shantanu Thakur, the Union Minister of State for Ports, Shipping, and Waterways, underlined India’s historic contributions to global trade networks, while TK Ramachandran, Secretary, MoPSW, welcomed participants and set the stage for the event. Bhushan Kumar, Joint Secretary, Ports & Sagarmala, delivered a vote of thanks, appreciating the collaborative efforts in organising the conclave.

The keynote sessions and panel discussions on India’s maritime legacy seamlessly interconnected, offering a comprehensive exploration of the nation’s historic contributions to global trade, culture, and innovation. Prof. Vasant Shinde set the stage with an enlightening presentation on India’s maritime heritage as depicted in the Lothal Museum, followed by Eric Staples, who delved into India’s connections with the Western Indian Ocean. Complementing these insights, Dr. Rajiv Nigam examined the influence of coastal environments on human cultures, weaving a multidimensional narrative of maritime history.

Building on these themes, the panel discussions also brought together eminent experts to further explore India’s ancient maritime practices and trade networks. Topics such as Hinterland and External Trade Links of the Harappan Civilization, India’s Contact with the Roman World and Its Impact, and Trade and Cultural Relations between India, Southeast Asia, and Beyond highlighted India’s pivotal role as a global connector through its vibrant maritime traditions.

The day also featured an exhibition showcasing India’s shipbuilding techniques, navigation systems, and historical trade routes, inaugurated by dignitaries. A vibrant cultural program celebrating India’s coastal traditions marked the day’s conclusion, offering a rich blend of scholarship and celebration.