Union Minister of Ports, Shipping & Waterways Sarbananda Sonowal chaired the 2nd Governing Council Meeting of the National Maritime Heritage Complex (NMHC) Society to review progress on the ambitious maritime heritage project at Lothal, Gujarat. The project aims to establish Lothal as a globally renowned center of maritime heritage, knowledge, education and tourism, showcasing India's maritime legacy spanning over five millennia.

Construction progress shows Phase 1A has reached approximately 82% physical completion, with a revised target completion date of 31 October 2026. Key components remaining to be completed include Galleries 4 and 6, Lothal Town, and Aquatic Theming. The project has 1,492 artefacts already prepared for installation, requiring expedited approvals for timely commissioning of exhibits.

The project has secured significant international collaboration with 13 countries signing MoUs for partnership: Portugal, UAE, Vietnam, Thailand, Netherlands, Denmark, Oman, Israel, Germany, Republic of Korea, Italy, New Zealand and Singapore. Discussions are underway to expand partnerships to over 35 countries. These collaborations enable exchange of artefacts, replicas, ship models, research collaboration and cultural engagement, positioning NMHC as an instrument of maritime diplomacy.

The Society has completed key statutory registrations including income tax exemption, CSR and Darpan registrations, strengthening its institutional framework for future resource mobilization. The Council approved the proposed NMHC Bye-laws, providing a governance framework for the Society's transition into a fully operational institution.

Future expansion plans include Phase 1B and Phase 2, which will add further galleries, a 5D Dome Theatre, Coastal States Pavilion, a Lighthouse Museum planned in collaboration with the Directorate General of Lighthouses and Lightships (potentially becoming the world's tallest lighthouse museum), a Maritime Research Institute being developed with Indian Maritime University, a Museotel and an Eco Resort.

External infrastructure developments supporting the project include the completed Dholera Expressway, a finalized plan for the high-speed rail corridor, and ongoing excavation at Lothal by the Archaeological Survey of India (ASI) reaching 70% completion. The Government of Gujarat continues to provide support on connectivity, power, water and visitor amenities.