Sri Vijaya Puram | February 11, 2026
The Andaman and Nicobar Administration has invited members of the general public to contribute materials, information and artefacts for display in the Andaman and Nicobar Union Territory Pavilion at the upcoming National Maritime Heritage Complex (NMHC) at Lothal, Gujarat.
The NMHC, a prestigious project under the Sagarmala Programme of the Ministry of Ports, Shipping and Waterways (MoPSW), Government of India, aims to showcase the country’s rich and diverse maritime heritage. The ambitious complex is being developed by the Government of India at the historic site of Lothal in Gujarat.
As part of the NMHC, dedicated state and Union Territory pavilions will be established, designed to reflect the unique architecture, culture, lifestyle and maritime legacy of participating regions. The A&N Administration has stated that it is committed to creating an impressive Coastal Union Territory Pavilion that authentically represents the heritage and legacy of the Islands.
In this connection, the Administration has sought public cooperation in providing relevant materials that highlight the maritime history and cultural traditions of the Islands. Contributions may include information on coastal archaeological sites and historic port towns; artefacts and antiquities such as sculptures, terracotta items, figurines, coins, paintings and manuscripts depicting maritime traditions; and details of monuments, temples, forts, cave sites, sculptures and inscriptions.
The Administration has also invited inputs on cultural aspects of coastal communities, traditional boat-building and shipbuilding practices, historical trade and cultural exchanges with foreign nations, and the continuity of art and craft traditions such as bead-making, pottery, textiles and metalwork. Replicas depicting forts, coastline activities, ancient ships, festivals, folklore and regional cuisine may also be considered for display.
All relevant information and materials may be submitted to the Secretary (Art & Culture), Andaman and Nicobar Administration. Contributions can be shared via email at artand.culture@and.nic.in or submitted at the office of the Art & Culture Department.
The Administration has expressed hope for enthusiastic public participation and assured that contributions are likely to be duly acknowledged in the A&N Pavilion at the NMHC, Lothal. It has called upon residents to extend their full cooperation in showcasing the Islands’ vibrant maritime heritage on the national stage.
