The inaugural day of the much-awaited India Maritime Heritage Conclave 2024 (IMHC 2024), organized by the Ministry of Ports, Shipping and Waterways (MoPSW) at Yashobhoomi, Dwarka, New Delhi, commenced today with a special session addressed by Hon’ble Vice President Shri Jagdeep Dhankhar, who emphasized the importance of preserving India’s maritime legacy for future generations. The conclave that brought together key ministers, prominent speakers, maritime experts & thought leaders from across the globe highlighted India’s rich seafaring legacy, its pivotal role in shaping cultural and economic exchanges across the world, and its vision for sustainable maritime innovation, underscoring its emergence as a maritime powerhouse. “India stands today as an emerging maritime powerhouse, strategically leveraging our geographical location and advanced infrastructure to spearhead global maritime initiatives. Through sophisticated maritime diplomacy, particularly initiatives like Sagar, security and growth for all in the region, we are fostering robust international partnerships and ensuring regional stability across the Indo-Pacific. Rule-based order is quintessence, and India is taking initiatives and lead to ensure that there is larger subscription to rule-based regime on seas. I am quite confident and optimistic that this two-day Maritime Heritage Conclave 2024 renews our collective dedication to honouring our maritime legacy while advancing towards sustainable innovation”, said the Hon’ble Vice President, Shri Jagdeep Dhankar.

The India Maritime Heritage Conclave fosters collaboration with key ministries like Labour and Employment, Youth Affairs and Education, and Culture and Tourism and highlights opportunities for skill development and employment, aligning with the Labour Ministry’s goals of creating sustainable livelihoods. It also inspires youth to explore maritime careers and integrates heritage into education. In partnership with the Ministry of Culture and Tourism, the event promotes India’s maritime legacy as a catalyst for cultural preservation and tourism. Together, these ministries create a unified framework for national development, youth empowerment, and global engagement.Inaugurating the conclave, Shri Sarbananda Sonowal, Union Minister for Ports, Shipping and Waterways, highlighted India’s commitment to preserving and promoting its maritime heritage. Speaking about the significance of this initiative, Shri Sonowal said, “Our rich maritime heritage is not merely a story of our past but a beacon for our future. This conclave reaffirms India’s leadership in maritime innovation and conservation, advancing sustainable practices while preserving our cultural legacy for future generations. Under the visionary guidance and leadership of our hon’ble Prime Minister Shri Narender Modi Ji, National Maritime Heritage Complex at Lothal is a step in that direction, a place where we will bring our maritime past to life for future generations. It will showcase the brilliance of our ancestors while inspiring young minds to carry forward their legacy.”