Ministry of Culture and Indian Navy signed a MoU to revive the Tankai method

Ministry of Culture and Indian Navy signed a MoU to revive the Tankai method: The Ministry of Culture and the Indian Navy have signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to resuscitate and maintain the ancient 2000-year-old shipbuilding process known as the’stitched shipbuilding method’ or ‘Tankai method.

Daily Current Affairs Quiz: July 2023

What is Tankai Method ?

The Tankai method is an ancient shipbuilding technique which entails stitching wooden planks together to build ships, eschewing the use of nails. By adopting this method, ships gain enhanced flexibility and durability, reducing their vulnerability to damage from shoals and sandbars.

The Cultural Significance of Stitched Ships in India’s Rich Maritime Heritage

• Because of its historical relevance and the preservation of traditional craftsmanship, the stitched ship has enormous cultural significance in India.
• India has a rich maritime heritage throughout history, and the utilization of stitched ships played a pivotal role in facilitating trade, cultural exchange, and exploration.
• With the introduction of European ships, shipbuilding techniques changed; however, the practise of stitching ships survived in certain coastal districts of India, mostly for the construction of small indigenous fishing boats.

Fostering Cultural Connections and Preserving Heritage through a Distinctive Boat-Building Project

• The significance of the stitched ship project goes beyond mere construction.
  Its objective is to rekindle the maritime memory and foster a sense of pride in India’s abundant maritime heritage among its people.
• The project aims to strengthen cultural ties with Indian Ocean littoral countries. By meticulously documenting and cataloguing the endeavour, vital knowledge will be kept for posterity.
• This endeavor not only showcases a distinctive boat-building initiative but also stands as a testament to India’s rich cultural legacy and ancient seafaring traditions.

Key takeaways for competitive examinations

• Minister of Culture: Shri G. Kishan Reddy