The National Maritime Heritage Complex (NMHC) at Lothal, Gujarat, is all set to become a global hub for showcasing India’s rich maritime history. The ambitious project, under the Sagarmala Programme, is progressing steadily and is poised to become a major landmark in the world of tourism and maritime education.
The NMHC will highlight India’s maritime legacy, from the ancient times of the Indus Valley Civilisation to modern naval achievements, all while adopting an innovative “edutainment” approach to engage visitors.
On Saturday, Union Minister of Ports, Shipping, and Waterways, Shri Sarbananda Sonowal, along with Dr Mansukh Mandaviya, the Union Minister of Labour & Employment and Youth Affairs, and Gujarat’s Chief Minister Shri Bhupendra Patel, visited Lothal to review the progress of the NMHC.
During the visit, the ministers toured the significant landmarks of the project, including INS Nishank, the Lothal Jetty Walkway, and the Museum Block. Their visit also included interactions with the onsite workers to understand the challenges faced and the progress made in developing the project.
Lothal holds great historical importance as a city of the ancient Indus Valley Civilisation. The city, which dates back to around 2400 BCE, is known for its advanced dockyard, thriving trade routes, and bead-making industry.
Archaeological discoveries, such as seals, pottery, and tools, have revealed a rich cultural and economic history, making Lothal a crucial site for understanding the Harappan civilisation.
The NMHC will celebrate this heritage and provide an interactive and educational platform for visitors to learn about India’s long-standing maritime traditions.
The review focused not only on the physical progress of the project but also on the socio-economic impact of the complex. Shri Sarbananda Sonowal stressed that the NMHC would provide significant opportunities for local communities.
By boosting tourism, creating employment, and offering skill development programmes, the project will empower the youth of Gujarat and contribute to the economic growth of the region.
He added that the NMHC would become a significant platform for maritime education, facilitating collaboration between India’s maritime community and the global industry.
Shri Sonowal also praised the leadership of Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi, acknowledging that the NMHC is part of the larger vision of making India a leading maritime nation.
He highlighted that this project would contribute to India’s transformation into an Atmanirbhar Bharat by 2047, in line with Prime Minister Modi’s goal of self-reliance and national development.
The NMHC is being developed with the aim of providing a world-class destination for tourists and maritime enthusiasts alike. The complex will use cutting-edge technology to create an immersive experience, blending education with entertainment.
Visitors will be able to explore India’s maritime history through interactive exhibits, advanced displays, and engaging storytelling. This unique approach will attract both domestic and international tourists, contributing to the overall tourism economy of Gujarat.
With 65 per cent of Phase 1A of the project already completed, the NMHC is on track to meet its completion timeline. The government has ensured that the project is being developed to the highest standards, making it a premier international tourist destination.
As a result, the NMHC is expected to not only celebrate India’s rich maritime legacy but also solidify the country’s position as a maritime leader on the global stage.
The involvement of senior officials from various ministries, including the Ministry of Defence, as well as renowned architect Hafeez Contractor and Tata Projects Ltd, has been crucial to the success of the project.
The NMHC will not only preserve and promote India’s maritime heritage but also play an important role in fostering tourism, education, and skill development in the maritime sector.
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