The National Maritime Heritage Complex (NMHC), being developed under India’s Sagarmala Programme, is set to become a world-class center for showcasing India’s maritime legacy, spanning from ancient to modern times. The project is on track, with 65% of Phase 1A completed.
Union Minister of Ports, Shipping, and Waterways, Shri Sarbananda Sonowal, along with Minister of Labour & Employment Dr. Mansukh Mandaviya and Gujarat Chief Minister Shri Bhupendra Patel, recently reviewed the progress of the complex. Key sites visited included INS Nishank, the Lothal Jetty Walkway, and the Museum Block. Sonowal expressed satisfaction with the progress and emphasized the project’s importance in boosting tourism, education, and local employment.
Lothal, an ancient port city of the Indus Valley Civilization, holds historical significance for its advanced dockyard and thriving trade. The NMHC aims to preserve this rich heritage and educate visitors using cutting-edge technology in an “edutainment” format, blending education and entertainment to attract global tourists.
Sonowal highlighted the project’s potential to boost Gujarat’s tourism economy and foster skill development among local communities. He also noted that the complex would play a key role in India’s maritime ambitions, supporting the nation’s vision of becoming a leading maritime power and achieving Atmanirbhar Bharat by 2047.
The NMHC is expected to be a major international tourist destination, celebrating India’s maritime history through interactive exhibits and state-of-the-art displays. Senior officials from the Ministry of Ports, Shipping, and Waterways, the Ministry of Defence, and other key stakeholders participated in the review.
