New Delhi: In a crucial step towards celebrating and preserving India’s ancient maritime legacy, the Minister of Ports, Shipping, and Waterways, Sarbananda Sonowal, convened a high-level meeting today with leading archaeologists, museologists, and historians from across the country. The meeting focused on developing a collaborative strategy to document and promote India’s maritime heritage, which has played a pivotal role in shaping the nation’s cultural and economic history.
A key outcome of the discussion was the announcement of the upcoming Indian Maritime Heritage Conclave, slated for mid-December 2024. This landmark event will gather global experts, researchers, and practitioners to explore India’s 10,000-year-old maritime history. The conclave will cover a wide range of topics, from the influence of maritime culture on language, literature, and art, to the unique traditions, cuisine, sports, and clothing of India’s coastal regions.
Speaking on the occasion, Sonowal emphasized the importance of India’s maritime past, stating, “India’s maritime history is not just a legacy of the past; it is a guiding light for the future. Through this conclave, we aim to celebrate our rich heritage while positioning India as a global leader in maritime conservation.”
The Minister’s remarks were echoed by prominent historians in attendance, who praised the Ministry’s initiative as a critical step toward raising global awareness of India’s maritime achievements. They noted that the collaborative effort would enhance India’s status as a custodian of a vast and diverse maritime legacy.
In alignment with Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s vision of India as a “Vishwaguru” (world leader), the conclave is expected to elevate India’s leadership in the field of maritime heritage conservation. The Ministry announced that a committee will be formed soon to develop a detailed concept plan for the event. This will include thematic sessions, workshops, and interactive activities designed to foster deeper engagement and knowledge sharing among participants.