Sonowal Reviews NMHC Progress at Lothal Meeting

Describing NMHC as one of the most significant cultural and maritime initiatives launched by the Government of India, Sonowal said that the project aims to establish Lothal as a globally renowned center for maritime heritage, knowledge, education, and tourism. Shri Sonowal reiterated that NMHC in Lothal is a flagship cultural and maritime endeavor by the Government of India. He recalled that the Governing Council had set a clear vision and direction during its first meeting in June 2025.

The Union Minister noted that the Society has completed key statutory registrations, including income tax exemption, CSR, and Darpan registration. This has strengthened its institutional framework for future resource mobilization. He expressed particular encouragement at the international response the project has received, with 13 countries—including Portugal, UAE, Vietnam, Thailand, Netherlands, Denmark, Oman, Israel, Germany, South Korea, Italy, New Zealand, and Singapore—signing MoUs for cooperation. Discussions are also ongoing with several other nations under a proposed plan to partner with over 35 countries. Shri Sonowal highlighted that these partnerships enable the exchange of artifacts, replicas, ship models, research collaboration, and cultural engagement, turning NMHC into a powerful instrument of maritime diplomacy.

Regarding construction progress, the Council was informed that approximately 82 percent of the work for Phase 1A has been completed. Shri Sonowal urged the implementing agencies to maintain strict monitoring to meet the revised deadline of October 31, 2026. He drew attention to components that are yet to be completed, such as Galleries 4 and 6, Lothal Town, and aquatic theming. He also pointed out that 1,492 artifacts are ready for installation and requested prompt approvals so the exhibition can open to visitors on schedule.

Moving beyond the museum, the Council reviewed plans for Phase 1B and Phase 2, which will feature additional galleries, a 5D dome theater, coastal state pavilions, a lighthouse museum proposed in collaboration with the Directorate General of Lighthouses and Lightships (DGLL), a Maritime Research Institute (MRI) being developed with the Indian Maritime University (IMU), a museotell, and an eco-resort. Shri Sonowal noted that the proposed lighthouse museum has the potential to become the world's tallest lighthouse museum.

The Governing Council also noted the progress on external infrastructure, including the completed Dholera Expressway, final planning for the high-speed rail corridor, and ongoing excavations at Lothal (currently 70 percent complete and conducted by the Archaeological Survey of India - ASI). Furthermore, the continuous support provided by the Government of Gujarat for connectivity, power, water, and tourist amenities was appreciated. The Council deliberated upon and approved the proposed NMHC bylaws, which provide a governance framework to transition the Society into a fully functional entity.

Union Minister Sarbananda Sonowal credited the momentum of the project to the vision of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, under whose leadership India's maritime heritage has been placed at the core of national policy. Shri Sonowal stated that under PM Modi's dynamic leadership, "we are not just building a museum in Lothal, but reviving India's 5,000-year-old maritime civilization and presenting it to the world."

Shri Sonowal expressed gratitude for the contributions of the NMHC team, IPRCL, the Government of Gujarat, the Indian Navy, IMU, major ports, and partner ministries. He expressed confidence that with sustained progress, NMHC will emerge as a global landmark celebrating India's maritime legacy and future aspirations. He concluded, "Through collective effort, coordinated action, and the continuous guidance of this Governing Council, I am confident that the National Maritime Heritage Complex will emerge as a global landmark."