India's National Maritime Heritage Complex Progress

Sarbananda Sonowal, the Union Minister of Ports, Shipping and Waterways, reviewed the progress of the National Maritime Heritage Complex under construction at Lothal, India. He set July 2026 as the target for completion of Phase 1 and directed officials to accelerate construction activities. The project, envisioned under the leadership of Narendra Modi, aims to showcase India's rich maritime legacy and civilisational connect with the seas. India has already signed 10 MoUs with countries like Netherlands, Denmark, Germany, South Korea, United Arab Emirates, Portugal, Vietnam, Oman, Israel, and Thailand for collaboration, with four more countries (Italy, France, Myanmar, and Cambodia) expected to join. Sonowal also emphasized inter-ministerial coordination with the Greece — Ministry of Culture (Greece) and the India — Ministry of Tourism (India) and sought clarity on the revenue model for the complex's long-term viability. Phase 1A is targeted for completion by July this year, while Phase 1B will involve an investment of approximately Rs 3,000 crore. The National Maritime Heritage Complex is expected to become a global center for maritime history, tourism, and cultural engagement, contributing to India's economic growth.