India Maritime Heritage Conclave 2024: A Celebration of Seafaring Traditions
The Ministry of Ports, Shipping and Waterways is set to host the inaugural India Maritime Heritage Conclave 2024 (IMHC). This landmark event aims to unite maritime experts, thought leaders, and speakers from around the world. Scheduled for December 11 and 12, 2024, the conclave will take place at the Yashobhoomi Convention Center in New Delhi. The event will be officially launched by Union Minister for Ports, Shipping and Waterways, Shri Sarbananda Sonowal, alongside notable dignitaries including the Vice President of India, Shri Jagdeep Dhankhar, and other key ministers.
Exploring India’s Rich Maritime Heritage
The primary goal of the India Maritime Heritage Conclave is to delve into India’s extensive maritime history. The conclave will feature insightful sessions and discussions that highlight the lives of coastal communities, significant trade routes, and pivotal maritime events. These elements have played a crucial role in shaping India’s cultural and economic landscape.
Participants will explore India’s advancements in shipbuilding, navigation, and trade. The conclave will also connect India’s maritime history with regions such as Southeast Asia, West Asia, Africa, and Europe. Ancient ports like Lothal and Muziris will be focal points, showcasing their roles as hubs of commerce and cultural exchange. These ports were instrumental in spreading philosophies like Buddhism and practices such as Ayurveda. Additionally, Indian sailors were pioneers in navigation, utilizing monsoon winds and innovative tools to shape global maritime routes.
This event promises to be a treasure trove of knowledge, bringing together global experts and researchers to discuss India’s 10,000-year-old maritime legacy. Topics will include the influence of language, literature, art, and architecture on maritime culture. The conclave will also celebrate the unique traditions, cuisine, sports, and clothing of India’s coastal states.
A Platform for Global Collaboration
Shri Sarbananda Sonowal, the Union Minister for Ports, Shipping and Waterways, emphasized the importance of this conclave. He stated, “Our rich maritime heritage is not merely a story of our past but a beacon for our future.” The conclave aims to reaffirm India’s commitment to preserving its oceans and advancing sustainable maritime practices. It also seeks to position India as a global leader in maritime innovation and conservation.
In line with the Prime Minister’s vision of India as a “Vishwaguru,” the conclave is expected to be a milestone event. It will promote India’s leadership in maritime heritage conservation. The discussions will focus on critical issues such as ocean health, marine biodiversity, and responsible resource use. By fostering collaboration among experts, the conclave aims to address these pressing challenges.
Engaging Sessions and Discussions
The two-day conclave will feature a series of sessions that explore diverse themes. Day 1 will kick off with keynote addresses on topics such as India’s maritime heritage as depicted in the Lothal Museum and ancient shipping networks. Panel discussions will cover India’s early trade with the Greco-Bactrian and Roman worlds, oceanic mythologies, and the strategic role of Europeans in reshaping maritime commerce.
Day 2 will continue with engaging discussions on the evolution of Indian naval power. Topics will include the Cholas’ contributions to maritime history and advancements in traditional shipbuilding techniques. The sessions will also examine the development of lighthouse infrastructure under the Sagarmala program and the legacy of the Maratha navy. Special segments will feature talks on stitched boat construction techniques and discussions about the upcoming National Maritime Museum at Lothal.
With a blend of scholarly insight and practical focus, the conclave promises to foster meaningful dialogue. It aims to shape India’s leadership in maritime conservation and innovation, ensuring that the nation’s rich maritime heritage is preserved for future generations.
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