The India Maritime Heritage Conclave 2024 (IMHC 2024) commenced on a high note, serving as important platform for discussing India’s rich maritime legacy. Organised by the Ministry of Ports, Shipping and Waterways (MoPSW), the event took place at Yashobhoomi, Dwarka, New Delhi. It gathered key government officials, maritime experts, and international delegates, all focusing on India’s emerging role as a maritime powerhouse.
Significance of the Conclave
The conclave puts stress on the importance of preserving India’s maritime heritage. It aims to enhance India’s position in global maritime affairs. The event aligns with India’s strategic location in the Indian Ocean and its historical role in trade and cultural exchanges. The discussions are expected to encourage international partnerships and regional stability.
Keynote Addresses and Themes
The inaugural session featured prominent speakers, including Vice President Jagdeep Dhankhar and Prime Minister Narendra Modi. They emphasised the need for a robust maritime framework. The Prime Minister brought into light the development of the National Maritime Heritage Complex at Lothal. This complex aims to honour India’s maritime past while paving the way for future innovations.
Collaboration Across Ministries
The conclave promotes collaboration among various ministries. Ministries of Labour and Employment, Youth Affairs and Education, and Culture and Tourism are involved. This partnership aims to create sustainable livelihoods through skill development in maritime careers. The integration of maritime heritage into education is also a focal point.
Cultural Preservation and Tourism
The event marks the potential of maritime heritage as a catalyst for cultural preservation and tourism. By showcasing India’s maritime history, the conclave aims to inspire pride and global appreciation. The establishment of the National Maritime Heritage Complex is seen as step in this direction.
Themes and Discussions
The conclave features a range of discussions on India’s maritime history. Topics include ancient dockyards, trade networks, and cultural exchanges. Experts will explore how India’s maritime past connects to its present and future. The event promises to provide a multidimensional narrative of India’s maritime heritage.
Exhibition and Cultural Program
An exhibition showcasing India’s shipbuilding techniques and historical trade routes was part of the conclave. This exhibition featured over 20 stalls and brought into light India’s innovations in maritime technology. The day concluded with a cultural program celebrating coastal traditions, blending scholarship with festivity.
International Participation
The conclave attracted representatives from 11 countries, emphasising its international significance. The diverse participation showcases India’s commitment to encouraging global maritime dialogue. Day 2 of the conclave will continue with discussions on themes such as the contributions of the Chola dynasty and advancements in traditional shipbuilding.
Future Directions
The conclave aims to outline a roadmap for preserving India’s maritime legacy. It seeks to inspire future generations to engage with maritime history. The discussions will culminate in a valedictory session summarising key takeaways and future initiatives.
Questions for UPSC:
- Discuss the significance of maritime heritage in India’s cultural and economic development.
- Critically examine the role of the National Maritime Heritage Complex in promoting tourism and education.
- Explain the historical contributions of the Chola dynasty to India’s maritime legacy.
- With suitable examples, discuss the impact of maritime trade on India’s ancient civilisations and their global connections.
Answer Hints:
1. Discuss the significance of maritime heritage in India’s cultural and economic development.
- Maritime heritage reflects India’s historical trade routes and cultural exchanges, enhancing national identity.
- It encourages economic growth through tourism, maritime industries, and job creation in coastal regions.
- Preserving maritime heritage promotes cultural pride and global recognition of India’s contributions.
- It supports sustainable practices, contributing to environmental conservation and community livelihoods.
- Maritime heritage serves as an educational resource, inspiring future generations to engage with their history.
2. Critically examine the role of the National Maritime Heritage Complex in promoting tourism and education.
- The complex serves as a hub for showcasing India’s maritime history, attracting tourists and researchers.
- It integrates educational programs, enhancing awareness of maritime heritage among youth and communities.
- By preserving artifacts and narratives, it encourages cultural tourism, boosting local economies.
- The complex collaborates with various sectors to promote sustainable tourism practices.
- It acts as a platform for international dialogue on maritime heritage, enhancing global partnerships.
3. Explain the historical contributions of the Chola dynasty to India’s maritime legacy.
- The Chola dynasty was known for its advanced naval power, facilitating trade across Southeast Asia.
- They established extensive trade networks with regions like China, Sri Lanka, and the Middle East.
- The construction of ships and ports under the Cholas showcased their shipbuilding expertise.
- Chola rulers contributed to cultural exchanges, influencing art, architecture, and language in maritime regions.
- The dynasty’s maritime prowess laid the foundation for India’s historical role as a global trade hub.
4. With suitable examples, discuss the impact of maritime trade on India’s ancient civilisations and their global connections.
- Trade routes like the Silk Road and Indian Ocean facilitated the exchange of goods, ideas, and cultures.
- The Indus Valley Civilization had advanced dockyards, enabling trade with Mesopotamia and beyond.
- Maritime trade helped spread Buddhism and Hinduism to Southeast Asia, influencing regional cultures.
- Historical texts, such as those by Ptolemy, highlight India’s significance in global trade networks.
- Ports like Lothal served as crucial trade centers, linking India with ancient civilizations worldwide.
