To bring to light India’s ancient history hidden in the depths of the sea, the central government has launched a major campaign. By the year 2030, underwater archaeological exploration and excavation will be conducted at several historical marine sites. The objective of this campaign is to search for evidence of ancient cities, ports, forts, and civilizations buried beneath the sea.
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Where will the search take place ?
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The Underwater Archaeology Wing of the Archaeological Survey of India (ASI) is currently conducting surveys and research in Dwarka and Bet Dwarka in Gujarat, Mahabalipuram in Tamil Nadu, and Karaikal in Puducherry. Meanwhile, permission has also been granted for underwater exploration and excavation in Pumpuhar in Tamil Nadu, as well as Bet Dwarka, Chhari, and Gangta Bet in Gujarat. By 2030, Dwarka, Bet Dwarka, Vijaydurg, Janjira, Karaikal, and Mahabalipuram will be the major hubs of this campaign.
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Will Lord Krishna’s Dwarka be found ?
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Dwarka is the most talked-about center of this mission. According to religious beliefs, this was the capital of Lord Krishna, which later submerged into the sea. Over the past several years, stone structures, ancient anchors, and other remains have been found beneath the sea. However, it has not yet been scientifically proven that these remains belong to Lord Krishna’s city. This is why this search is considered extremely significant from the perspectives of both history and faith.
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What are scientists searching for under the sea ?
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Archaeologists will attempt to determine whether the remains of any ancient city, port, ship, ghat, fort, or settlement exist beneath the sea. If important structures and artifacts are found, they could play a major role in understanding India’s maritime history and ancient civilizations.
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How much is the government spending ?
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In the year 2025-26, the Underwater Archaeology Wing of the ASI received a budget of 75.40 lakh rupees, of which almost the entire amount has been spent. For the year 2026-27, 66.50 lakh rupees have been allocated so far. The Tamil Nadu government has separately allocated 7 crore rupees for archaeological excavations in both land and sea, while the National Institute of Oceanography has also been provided a budget for this mission.
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What could change by 2030 ?
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The ASI is also providing specialized training to experts in underwater archaeology. With the help of modern technology, sonar mapping, and scientific surveys, an attempt will be made to bring the history hidden beneath the sea to light. If this campaign is successful, many new facts related to India’s ancient maritime trade, ports, and civilizations could emerge. The secrets hidden in the depths of the sea from Dwarka to Mahabalipuram could present a new picture of history in the coming years.
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