Syama Prasad Mookerjee Port, Kolkata, the oldest operational Major Port in India, received the Maritime Excellence Award in the Heritage Category during India Maritime Week 2025. This honor acknowledges SMPK’s vital contributions to maritime development and its rich cultural history, despite challenges like a shallow navigation channel along the River Hooghly.
Odisha has been awarded the Best Stall Award at India Maritime Week 2025 in Mumbai, presented by Minister Sarbananda Sonowal. The stall, themed “Odisha – Voyage of Heritage and Hope,” showcased the state’s maritime history and modern advancements, highlighting its commitment to blending heritage with innovation for a sustainable maritime future.
Bhubaneswar’s Balijatra, Odisha’s historic maritime festival, will debut at the British Parliament on November 14, organized by the Odisha Society of the United Kingdom. The event features a two-day program themed “Ancient Maritime Glory to Sustainable Futures,” celebrating Odia culture, music, and traditions while fostering international dialogue on heritage.
The proposed passenger jetty near the Gateway of India in Mumbai, developed by the Maharashtra Maritime Board, is facing opposition from locals who view it as an environmental hazard and a threat to heritage sites. Despite government support, residents fear the impact on Colaba’s cultural and environmental fabric, calling for relocation.
The Ministry of Heritage and Tourism in Muscat is seeking maritime artefacts from citizens to preserve Oman’s seafaring legacy. They are looking for traditional ships, photographs, maps, and more related to Oman’s maritime history. The collected items will enhance the upcoming Maritime History Museum in Sur, showcasing Oman’s rich heritage and boosting tourism.
In New Delhi, Dr. Malini Shankar urged the fusion of India’s rich maritime heritage with contemporary technology to bolster security and growth. Highlighting the significance of ancient trade routes, she advocated for blending traditional shipbuilding with innovations like data analytics, emphasizing initiatives such as the Stitched Ship Project to realize India’s maritime potential.
