India’s maritime heritage is deeply rooted, with shipbuilding traditions evident from the 5th century CE. Ajanta cave murals depict stitched ships made from coir, coconut fiber, and resins. Recently, the INSV Kaundinya’s maiden voyage from Porbandar to Muscat celebrates this legacy, blending ancient craftsmanship with modern design in maritime exploration.
India and the Netherlands have formalized a collaboration on maritime heritage through a Memorandum of Understanding regarding the National Maritime Heritage Complex in Lothal. This partnership, established during a meeting between S. Jaishankar and David van Wiel, aims to enhance cultural ties and promote India’s maritime history globally.
The Odia community in London recently celebrated Bali Yatra with a Maritime Heritage Summit at the UK Parliament. This two-day event honored Odisha’s cultural and maritime legacy, featuring discussions on the historical journeys of sailors and their modern significance. Dignitaries emphasized sustainable innovation and the importance of cultural awareness.
On Monday, Minister Mohan Charan Majhi visited the Odisha Pavilion at the India Maritime Week 2025 in Mumbai, emphasizing the state’s rich maritime heritage. He highlighted Odisha’s vision for enhancing maritime trade, drawing inspiration from ancient Odia mariners who excelled in navigation, while showcasing the state’s strategic location and progressive port policies.
On World Maritime Day, former Odisha Chief Minister Naveen Patnaik underscored the significance of sustainable shipping, celebrating Odisha’s maritime heritage. He urged collective action for eco-friendly practices in shipping, highlighting the state’s historical role in seaborne trade. Meanwhile, the Union Cabinet approved a ₹69,725 crore package to boost India’s maritime sector.
Bhubaneswar: BJD President Naveen Patnaik attended the “Voyages: The Ancient Maritime Silk Route” exhibition in New Delhi, curated by Jaya Mani. The event highlights South Asia’s coastal heritage, with a focus on Odisha. Patnaik praised artists Suresh Muthukulam and Gunjan Jain for their contributions, celebrating the region’s rich maritime history.
Amsterdam celebrated the opening of SAIL 2025 with a breathtaking display of historic vessels in its harbor. This five-day festival, one of the world’s largest free nautical events, draws millions eager to honor maritime traditions. The event kicked off with a vibrant parade of tall ships, creating a festive atmosphere.
India is actively seeking Norway’s collaboration on cultural, technological, and academic initiatives for the National Maritime Heritage Complex in Lothal, Gujarat. Union Minister Sarbananda Sonowal announced this during his visit to Oslo, where he joined Crown Prince Haakon to inaugurate the India Pavilion at the Nor-Shipping event, highlighting maritime capabilities.
Thierry Birles, a maritime law expert, is advocating for sustainable cultural tourism by preserving maritime traditions. He believes that traditional maritime skills can drive economic growth in coastal communities. Birles’ initiative aims to create partnerships to showcase maritime practices, address challenges like climate change, and integrate cultural preservation with economic development for a sustainable future.
National Maritime Day on April 5 commemorates the 1919 voyage of SS Loyalty, marking India’s independence in the maritime industry. It honors senior officers and industry leaders for their contributions to global trade. The maritime industry, crucial for the global economy, transports goods internationally. India’s extensive coastline and ports position it as a leading maritime trading nation.
In the week of 23 – 29 Dec 2024, the Indian maritime sector witnessed pivotal advancements. The government announced plans for a National Maritime Heritage Complex, enhanced digital initiatives, and new seaport developments. Concurrently, global trends such as Egypt’s Suez Canal expansion and sustainable innovations signal a dynamic future for maritime industries worldwide.
This week (09-15 Dec. 2024), the maritime sector experienced pivotal developments, including the Mumbai Port Trust’s heritage tours, advancements in ship recycling legislation, and innovations in autonomous shipping technology. Furthermore, the need for improved seafarer welfare and environmental regulations highlights the industry’s commitment to navigating a sustainable and equitable future.
Vice President Jagdeep Dhankhar emphasized the importance of preserving India’s maritime heritage at the India Maritime Heritage Conclave 2024. The event brought together key ministers and experts to highlight India’s seafaring history and global influence. Prime Minister Modi and Minister Sonowal also reiterated India’s commitment to preserving maritime heritage and sustainable development.
Admiral D K Joshi, the Lt. Governor of the Andaman and Nicobar Islands, highlighted the region’s rich maritime history at the Indian Maritime Heritage Conclave. He discussed ambitious development projects focusing on enhancing shipping and ports infrastructure to drive economic growth and position the islands as a key player in India’s development vision.
CM Mohan Majhi recently attended the Boita Bandana ceremony in Paradeep, highlighting Odisha’s historical maritime supremacy. Organized by the Paradip Port Authority, the event served as a reminder of Odisha’s rich maritime heritage. The Chief Minister emphasized the significance of remembering the maritime memories associated with Boita Bandana and Baliyatra, symbolic festivals celebrating Odisha’s maritime legacy.
