Government Addresses Encroachments on Heritage Sites
The government has confirmed that there are a total of 3,688 ancient monuments and archaeological sites recognized as national treasures, out of which 414 are currently facing encroachments. This information was revealed recently by Union Minister for Culture and Tourism, Shri Gajendra Singh Shekhawat, during a session in the Rajya Sabha.
Taking note of the existing encroachments, the government is committed to preserving these historical sites under the Ancient Monuments and Archaeological Sites and Remains Act of 1958 (AMASR Act). Notably, the protection of these monuments does not depend on the acquisition or ownership of the land they occupy, which allows for more flexible conservation strategies.
Conservation Efforts Underway
The Archaeological Survey of India (ASI) plays a crucial role in the conservation and maintenance of these protected monuments. Whenever encroachments or unauthorized activities are discovered, the ASI is prepared to take the necessary action in alignment with the AMASR Act and its associated rules. In order to enhance the protection of these sites, the ASI collaborates with local revenue officials to conduct joint surveys aimed at demarcating the boundaries of the monuments.
Digital Initiatives for Heritage Protection
To further bolster these efforts, the ASI has completed the georeferencing and digitization of the boundaries surrounding protected sites. This valuable data has been made accessible on the Bhuvan Portal, facilitating transparency and coordination with state land records as needed. By integrating this information with state-level databases, the government aims to prevent future encroachments effectively.
State-Specific Encroachment Details
The encroachment issue is not uniform across the country. States such as Tamil Nadu and Uttar Pradesh are particularly affected, with 72 and 78 protected sites, respectively, experiencing encroachment. Other states, including Karnataka, Maharashtra, and Assam, also show concerning numbers, as detailed in the comprehensive annexure provided by the government.
As the preservation of these monuments is essential for maintaining the country’s cultural heritage, governmental efforts continue to adapt and respond to the challenges posed by encroachments. The commitment to protecting these invaluable sites reflects a broader dedication to safeguarding India’s history for future generations.
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