PANJIM: A session titled ‘Vanguards of Our Shores: Lighthouses as Testaments of India’s Past and Present’ was organised by Bharat Pravah, an initiative of Institute for Governance, Policies and Politics, on the sidelines of the ongoing three-day first Lighthouse festival at Fort Aguada, Sinquerim.
Famous historian andarchaeologist, Prof Vasant Shinde of the Rakhigarhi fame, spoke about the historical significance of Lighthouses in India’s maritime history, while, Dr Sunil Gupta, Maritime Archaeologist and OSD at the Pradhanmantri Sangrhalaya, New Delhi and Dr Vasu Uspakar, Director of the Goa State Museum also spoke at the intriguing session.
The Joint Secretary of MoPSW also presented a case for Ministry’s approach towards the Lighthouse Heritage Tourism Development and the investment opportunities across 75 Lighthouses in this phase.
Union Minister for Ports, Shipping and Waterways Sarbananda Sonowal said, “The Lighthouse Festival is a journey that will illuminate the hidden gems of our maritime history and reveal the untold stories of our historic lighthouses. This festival is not just about knowledge but about creating value and opportunities. Beyond the festival, our vision is to promote lighthouses as tourism destinations, to breathe new life into these historic structures, and to create opportunities for local communities and businesses.”
Chief Minister Pramod Sawant said that Lighthouse Festival is a testament to the unity and diversity that India represents bringing together sailors, lighthouse keepers, maritime enthusiasts and tourist to celebrate maritime history.
Union Minister of State for Ports, Shipping and Waterways Shripad Naik said that the Ministry is making effort to bring Lighthouses in focus by developing them into tourist spots. The Lighthouse tourism is unique as it portrays traditional, cultural and natural heritage of a place’
Tourism Minister Rohan Khaunte and Calangute MLA Michael Lobo were also present. Secretary (MoPSW) TK Ramachandran, said, “Today we are opening up lighthouses across the country for participation from the business community to develop them into a tourism spot.”
India’s first Lighthouse Festival with cultural exhibitions, highlight maritime history and culture, classical performances, light and sound shows, melodious evenings with celebrity singers, flavours of the coast and community engagements.
