National Maritime Heritage Complex (NMHC)

  • 10 Oct 2024

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The Union Cabinet has approved the development of NMHC in Lothal, Gujarat, under the Sagarmala programme.

  • Purpose and Vision  Aimed at showcasing India’s 4,500-year-old maritime heritage using an edutainment approach with modern technology.

Employment Generation

  •  Expected to create approximately 22,000 jobs: 15,000 direct and 7,000 indirect.

Project Phases

  • Phase 1A
  • Features a museum with 6 galleries, including:
  • A large Indian Navy & Coast Guard gallery with external naval artifacts.
  •  Replica of Lothal township surrounded by an open aquatic gallery.
  •  A jetty walkway.
  • Phase 1B
  • Expansion includes:
  • 8 additional galleries.
  •  The world's tallest Light House Museum.
  •  Bagicha complex with facilities for 1,500 cars, a food hall, and a medical center.
  • Phase 2
  • Development of Coastal States Pavilions by respective states and union territories.
  • Hospitality zone featuring maritime-themed eco-resorts and museuotels.
  • Recreation of ancient Lothal City and establishment of a Maritime Institute with hostel.
  • Creation of four theme-based parks:
  • Maritime & Naval Theme Park
  • Climate Change Theme Park
  • Monuments Park
  • Adventure & Amusement Park

Governance and Management

  • Governing Council
  • Chaired by the Minister of Ports, Shipping & Waterways, overseeing project implementation and operation.
  • Separate Society
  • A dedicated society will manage future phases, governed under the Societies Registration Act, 1860.

Benefits and Funding

  • Beneficiaries
  • Local communities, tourists, researchers, government bodies, educational institutions, cultural organizations, conservation groups, and businesses.
  • Funding
  • Construction of the Light House Museum in Phase 1B will be financed by the Directorate General of Lighthouses and Lightships (DGLL).

Sagarmala Programme

  • Objective
  • A flagship initiative aiming to transform India’s maritime sector by enhancing logistics performance and fostering port-led development and coastal community upliftment.
  •  Background
  • Approved in March 2015, the programme focuses on utilizing India’s extensive coastline and waterways for economic growth.