ASI Hosts National Workshop to Refine Project Mausam Framework

Project Mausam Workshop Strengthens India’s Maritime Heritage Diplomacy

The Archaeological Survey of India (ASI) organised a National Workshop in New Delhi in November 2025 to refine the thematic framework of Project Mausam , an initiative focused on India’s historic maritime links across the Indian Ocean region. The workshop brought together scholars, heritage experts, and professionals from multiple disciplines to guide the project’s future direction and implementation strategy.

Objective of the National Workshop
The primary aim of the workshop was to gather structured expert inputs for finalising the Project Mausam Thematic Framework Document . Participants examined the project’s cultural, maritime, archaeological, and heritage dimensions and discussed ways to present them within a coherent and inclusive framework. Emphasis was placed on aligning the project’s objectives with international collaboration and long-term sustainability.

Financial Allocation and Expenditure
For organising the workshop, the ASI sanctioned ₹30 lakh from its allocated budget. The actual expenditure amounted to approximately ₹25.70 lakh , covering logistics such as venue arrangements, expert consultations, documentation, and administrative support. The financial utilisation was aimed at ensuring a high-quality consultative process essential for the project’s next phase.

Expanding the Vision of Project Mausam
Project Mausam seeks to revive and document the historic maritime cultural connections that linked countries of the Indian Ocean world through trade winds, navigation, religion, art, and exchange of ideas. The initiative promotes joint transnational nominations to UNESCO , collaborative research projects, heritage documentation, and capacity building among partner nations. It is also positioned as a tool of cultural diplomacy, highlighting shared histories rather than isolated national narratives.

Parliamentary Disclosure and Strategic Importance
Details of the workshop were shared by Union Minister for Culture and Tourism Gajendra Singh Shekhawat in a written reply in the Lok Sabha. He emphasised that the workshop would strengthen international cooperation and enhance India’s global cultural engagement by foregrounding shared maritime heritage across the Indian Ocean region.

Exam-Focused Points

• Project Mausam focuses on maritime cultural linkages in the Indian Ocean region .

• The National Workshop 2025 was held in New Delhi by the ASI .

• ₹30 lakh was sanctioned; expenditure was about ₹25.7 lakh .

• The project includes UNESCO nominations, research, and capacity building .