Union Minister Sarbananda Sonowal reviewed progress on the National Maritime Heritage Complex (NMHC) at Lothal and set July 2026 as the target for completion of Phase one, the ministry said. He directed officials to accelerate construction and ensure timely delivery of panels, mural work, ceiling fabrication and flooring. The minister stressed strict adherence to timelines to operationalise the complex.

He framed the project as a landmark initiative to showcase India's maritime legacy and civilisational links with the seas under the prime minister's leadership and urged high quality standards. Officials were told to coordinate closely with the Ministry of Culture and the Ministry of Tourism to position the NMHC as a major tourism and cultural hub. A comprehensive calendar of events was requested to sustain visitor engagement and footfall.

The ministry highlighted the global dimension and the need for partnerships with neighbouring and maritime nations, including countries from ASEAN. It noted that India has already signed 10 MoUs with the Netherlands, Denmark, Germany, South Korea, the UAE and others, while four more countries are likely to sign for collaboration. Officials were instructed to pursue such agreements to raise the NMHC's international profile.

Phase one A, targeted for completion by July, will include six museum galleries, the Lothal township, aquatic and common area theming, a jetty walkway and the display of Indian Navy artefacts. Phase one B is expected to require an investment of approximately Rs 30 bn and will add eight museum galleries, a lighthouse museum, the Bageecha complex, Lothal?NI?VAV components and a 50?dome theatre. Once complete, the NMHC is intended to function as a global centre for maritime history and tourism.

The minister also reviewed measures for the safe passage of India bound ships in the Gulf of Straits near Iran and asked officials to take necessary steps. He sought clarity on the revenue model to ensure sustainable maintenance and long term viability. Officials were directed to prioritise timely completion while pursuing international collaboration and robust operational planning.