Navy chief reviews progress at NMHC Lothal, envisions living maritime museum

Admiral Dinesh K Tripathi, Chief of the Naval Staff, visited the National Maritime Heritage Complex (NMHC) at Lothal, Gujarat, today. His visit included a comprehensive tour of the complex, inspection of key naval exhibits and heritage artefacts, a review of construction progress, interactions with project stakeholders, and a visit to the Varuna Naval Complex.

According to a statement from the Naval spokesperson, the CNS also visited the historic archaeological site at Lothal, reaffirming the Indian Navy’s deep connection to India’s rich maritime heritage.

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The NMHC at Lothal is a landmark project being developed by the Ministry of Ports, Shipping and Waterways, with support from the Government of Gujarat and contributions from the Indian Navy. Spread across 400 acres, it will be one of the largest maritime museums in the world.

The project aims to showcase India’s rich seafaring traditions and naval evolution through immersive galleries, including one dedicated to the history and growth of the Indian Navy.

During his visit, the CNS was given a walkthrough tour of the warship Nishank, the IL-38 SD Maritime Reconnaissance aircraft, naval helicopters such as the UH-3H, the deck-based fighter aircraft Sea Harrier, and a range of naval artefacts including the AK-176 GM, 4.5-inch GM, and ZIF 101 SAM Launcher.

Heavy exhibits on display included missile models (P-21, BrahMos), engine models (ICE, GT), an Underwater Chariot, and the Sea Eagle missile system.

Rear Admiral Sathish Vasudev, Flag Officer Commanding Gujarat, Daman and Diu Naval Area, along with Commander Ranjot Singh, Officer-in-Charge, NMHC Lothal, briefed the CNS on the progress of Phase 1A, which is scheduled for completion by the end of 2025.

The CNS also visited the newly constructed Varuna Naval Complex, built by the Indian Navy as a base office and accommodation facility at the NMHC site. Naval personnel stationed there will oversee project progress and maintain naval artefacts.

Admiral Tripathi also interacted with senior officials associated with the project, including Commodore Doraibabu, Deputy Director, Maritime Heritage Society (MHS), and representatives from the Indian Ports, Rail and Ropeways Corporation Limited (IPRCL) and Tata Projects Limited.

Describing the NMHC as a “living testimony to India’s maritime past, present, and future,” he commended the synergy between the Navy and stakeholders, praised their efforts, and encouraged them to sustain momentum.

Admiral Tripathi also visited the Archaeological Survey of India (ASI) site at Lothal, famed for its ancient dockyard, bead workshops, and maritime trade links with Mesopotamia and Egypt dating back nearly 4,000 years. He emphasised that Lothal’s maritime legacy continues to inspire the Indian Navy’s vision in the 21st century.