India’s Heritage: ASI Highlights Conservation Efforts and Funding
The Archaeological Survey of India (ASI) oversees the conservation of 3,685 centrally protected monuments across the nation. These efforts involve a continuous and resource-dependent process of preservation, restoration, and maintenance in line with the National Policy for Conservation. To modernize these efforts, ASI employs advanced technologies such as LiDAR mapping, GIS, and drone surveys to assess and stabilize these historical structures.
Investment in Cultural Heritage
Over the past five years, significant financial allocations have been made for the conservation of these monuments. The allocated and spent amounts in crores for centrally protected monuments are as follows:
| Sr. No. | Financial Year | Allocation | Expenditure |
| ——- | ————– | ———- | ———– |
| 1. | 2020-21 | 260.90 | 260.83 |
| 2. | 2021-22 | 270.00 | 269.57 |
| 3. | 2022-23 | 392.71 | 391.93 |
| 4. | 2023-24 | 443.53 | 443.53 |
| 5. | 2024-25 | 313.43 | 313.04 |
In addition to government funding, initiatives like Adopt a Heritage 2.0 and the National Conservation Fund foster partnerships with private entities. These collaborations aim to enhance resources for restoration and the development of amenities around historical sites.
Capacity Building and Training
The ASI actively invests in the training of its personnel. Regular workshops cover a variety of topics including Lithic tools, Epigraphy, and conservation techniques. These programs also address compliance with the RTI Act, financial rules, and other essential procedural guidelines. Furthermore, ASI organizes activities to celebrate cultural awareness during World Heritage Day and other significant cultural weeks.
Preserving Intangible Cultural Heritage
Beyond physical monuments, the Ministry of Culture is dedicated to preserving India’s intangible cultural heritage. This includes the documentation and training of traditional practices that are integral to community identity. Financial assistance is provided to ensure the sustainability of these living traditions, alongside guidelines for accessing additional resources through Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR).
The Indian government also promotes its art and culture abroad through the Global Engagement Scheme. Festivals of India, showcasing folk art, dance, music, and more, are organized in various countries. Support is offered to Indo-Foreign Friendship Cultural Societies to facilitate multicultural interactions and presentations.
Delisting of Monuments
Recently, 18 monuments were removed from the list of those considered of national importance, as announced in official Gazette Notifications. Importantly, this action does not transfer any ownership of the land and falls under the jurisdiction of state governments as per the Constitution of India.
Observer Voice is the one stop site for National, International news, Sports, Editor’s Choice, Art/culture contents, Quotes and much more. We also cover historical contents. Historical contents includes World History, Indian History, and what happened today. The website also covers Entertainment across the India and World.
