Prime Minister Narendra Modi released the book "Pre-Modern Kutchi Navigation Techniques and Voyages"

Prime Minister Narendra Modi released the book "Pre-Modern Kutchi Navigation Techniques and Voyages" here today and stressed that a nation's maritime strength had a vital role in its emergence as a global economic power.

 

Mr Modi referred to his recent visits to nations in the Indian Ocean and said they were part of an effort to revitalize India's relations with the countries with whom it shares a common ocean.

 

He said that, historically, India had been a strong maritime power, which gave her economic strength. 

 

The book is a depiction and transcription of "Malam Ni Pothis" – a collection of Gujarati manuscripts which describe the pre-modern navigation technology of Gujarat. The book describes expeditions undertaken by the malams (navigators) of Kutch. The original Pothis are dated from the 17th to 19th century. 

 

The book has been transcribed and edited by Mr. Ashok B. Rajeshirke. It is a collaborative effort by the National Museum, New Delhi, and the Darshak Itihas Nidhi – a Foundation for Research and Studies in History.

 

Mr Modi complimented all those involved with the preparation of the book, and said such efforts are an essential part of every culture which is conscious of its history.

 

He said India has usually not been a history-conscious society, and therefore, many great accomplishments of the past have remained anonymous. He said in today's age of patents and IPRs, it was vital for India to be conscious of its history and culture.

 

Union Minister for Culture Mahesh Sharma, and the Chairman, Darshak Itihas Nidhi, Mr Hasmukh Shah, were amongst those present on the occasion.