India's National Maritime Heritage Complex: A Gateway to Ancient Maritime Legacy
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Project Name | National Maritime Heritage Complex (NMHC) |
| Location | Lothal, Gujarat |
| Approval | Approved by the Union Cabinet, chaired by Prime Minister Narendra Modi |
| Objective | To preserve and showcase India's 4,500-year-old maritime heritage |
| Phases | - Phase 1A: Under construction with 60% progress, expected completion by 2025 |
| - Phase 1B: Includes lighthouse museum, thematic exhibitions, research centers, and galleries | |
| - Phase 2: Further development through land sublease or PPP model | |
| Master Plan | Designed by M/s Architect Hafeez Contractor |
| Construction | Executed by Tata Projects Limited |
| Funding | - Phase 1B funded by Directorate General of Lighthouses and Lightships (DGLL) |
| - Additional funding through voluntary contributions and PPP model for Phase 2 | |
| Governing Body | Separate society under the Societies Registration Act, 1860, headed by the Minister of Ports, Shipping, and Waterways |
| Economic Impact | - 22,000 jobs (15,000 direct and 7,000 indirect) |
| - Boosts tourism, local economy, and academic institutions | |
| Historical Context | Lothal was a key maritime hub during the Indus Valley Civilization, known for its well-designed dockyard |
| Vision | To make India a global center for maritime research, conservation, and education |