India Maritime Heritage Conclave 2024 in New Delhi

Event Overview and Significance

• Inaugural of India Maritime Heritage Conclave (IMHC)
• Dates: December 11-12, 2024
• Venue: Yashobhoomi Convention Center, New Delhi
• Organized by Ministry of Ports, Shipping, and Waterways
• Collaborative effort with multiple government ministries

Key objectives:

• • Highlight India's 10,000-year maritime legacy
  • Showcase maritime heritage and cultural significance
  • Create awareness about maritime sector opportunities
  • Develop blueprint for India's global maritime positioning

Notable Participants and Leadership

Inaugural Dignitaries:

• • Sarbananda Sonowal (Union Minister)
  • Vice President of India
  • Gujarat Chief Minister
  • Other Union Ministers
• Prime Minister Narendra Modi sent special message

Participating State Governments:

• • Gujarat
  • Goa
  • Bihar
  • Arunachal Pradesh
• International representation from 11 countries
• Prominent scholars and maritime experts in attendance

Thematic Exploration and Key Discussions

Historical Maritime Heritage

• • Ancient ports like Lothal and Muziris
  • Trade networks with Greco-Bactrian and Roman worlds
  • Harappan civilization's maritime contributions
  • Evolution of Indian naval power
  • Chola dynasty's maritime achievements

Sustainable Practices and Future Vision

• • Ocean health and marine biodiversity
  • Maritime conservation strategies
  • Sustainable maritime innovation
  • Employment opportunities in maritime sector

Cultural and Educational Dimensions

• • Impact on language, literature, and art
  • Coastal community traditions
  • Navigation techniques
  • Cuisine and clothing of coastal states
  • Integration of maritime heritage in education system

Unique Event Highlights:

• Exhibition of 20+ stalls showcasing:
  • Shipbuilding techniques
  • Navigation systems
  • Historical trade routes
• Cultural program celebrating coastal traditions
• Discussions on National Maritime Heritage Complex
• Focus on India's vision as a maritime Vishwaguru

Strategic Significance:

• Positioning India as a global maritime powerhouse
• Emphasizing maritime diplomacy
• Promoting regional stability through maritime initiatives
• Aligning with Prime Minister's vision of Viksit Bharat by 2047