Purvodaya Perspectives 2024: Reclaiming India’s Maritime Heritage

The second edition of the Purvodaya Perspectives Conference began on December 14 in Bhubaneswar, Odisha. The two-day event, themed “Reclaiming India’s Maritime Heritage – Perspectives, Prospects, and Prognosis,” focuses on India’s maritime economy, heritage, and the Eastern Seaboard’s economic potential.

Organized by The Energy Forum (TEF) with support from the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA), the conference is part of the MEA’s foreign policy outreach initiatives.

Keynote Address by Secretary (East), MEA

Jaideep Mazumdar, Secretary (East), MEA, delivered the keynote address, highlighting:

1. Maritime Economy’s Role: Its significance in achieving the economic potential of India’s Eastern Seaboard States, including Odisha.
2. SAGAR Vision: Reinforcing PM Narendra Modi’s vision for the Indo-Pacific through SAGAR (Security and Growth for All in the Region).

Mazumdar emphasized India’s commitment to a free, open, and inclusive Indo-Pacific, as stated by PM Modi during the QUAD Summit earlier this year.

PM Modi’s Vision and SAGAR

PM Narendra Modi has consistently underlined the importance of a prosperous Indo-Pacific as a shared priority. In October 2024, Defence Minister Rajnath Singh echoed this vision during the Indo-Pacific Regional Dialogue (IPRD), emphasizing partnerships that prioritize sustainable development, mutual security, and economic growth.

Conference Highlights and Takeaways

• The conference serves as a platform for experts to discuss the reclamation of India’s maritime heritage.
• It explores the economic potential of the Eastern Seaboard States in fostering regional and global maritime partnerships.
• Focus on Indo-Pacific collaborations aligns with India’s strategic goals under the SAGAR framework.

MEA’s Social Media Update

The Ministry of External Affairs shared updates about the conference on their official X account, stating:
“Secy (East) @JaideepMazumder delivered keynote address on the theme ‘Reclaiming India’s Maritime Heritage – Perspectives, Prospects, and Prognosis’ at the 2nd edition of ‘Purvodaya Perspectives’ in Bhubaneswar, Odisha today.”