NEWS – Cabinet approves development of National Maritime Heritage Complex (NMHC), Lothal, Gujarat.

HIGHLIGHTS

About NMHC:

• Located at the historic site of Lothal, Gujarat, part of the Indus Valley Civilization.
• Developed by the Ministry of Ports, Shipping, and Waterways.
• Aims to showcase India’s maritime heritage, from ancient to modern times.
• Incorporates edutainment elements and advanced technology.

Significance of NMHC:

• Set to become the world’s largest maritime museum complex.
• Designed as an international tourist destination.
• Focuses on educating visitors about India’s maritime history.
• Part of the Sagarmala Programme, promoting maritime infrastructure.
• Funded by public and private institutes, corporate social responsibility (CSR) initiatives, and major Indian ports.

Unique Features of NMHC:

• Includes a Lothal Mini Recreation.
• Four theme parks:
  • Memorial Park
  • Maritime and Navy Park
  • Climate Park
  • Adventure and Amusement Park
• Coastal States Pavilion to highlight maritime history across India.

LOTHAL: THE HISTORICAL SITE

About Lothal:

• One of the southernmost sites of the Indus Valley Civilization (IVC).
• Located in Gujarat’s Bhāl region.
• Believed to have been built around 2,200 BC.
• Flourished as a trade center, connecting to West Asia and Africa.
• Famous for its trade in beads, gems, and ornaments.

Meaning of “Lothal”:

• In Gujarati, “Lothal” translates to “the mound of the dead.”

Lothal’s Significance:

• The only excavated port town of the Indus Valley Civilization.
• Key evidence of ancient maritime activity in India.

UNESCO World Heritage Nomination:

• Lothal was nominated in April 2014 for UNESCO World Heritage Site status.
• Currently on the tentative list of UNESCO.