Preserving India’s cultural heritage is an ongoing, multifaceted effort requiring proactive measures to address environmental, legal and security challenges. The ASI in collaboration with various agencies continues to monitor, protect and conserve the nation’s monumental treasures

India, a land of surprises is home to some of the world’s most iconic cultural and archaeological treasures. From the intricately carved temples of Khajuraho and the historic ruins of Hampi to the revered Somnath temple, the country boasts a vast array of monuments that reflect its rich history, diverse traditions and architectural brilliance. These sites stretching from the northern Himalayas to the southern tip of Kanyakumari are a testament to India’s glorious past and cultural legacy.

However, climate change and extreme weather patterns such as rising sea levels, heatwaves, forest fires, torrential rains and strong winds are putting these invaluable landmarks at significant risk. The damage caused by these factors is accelerating the deterioration of both movable and immovable heritage, threatening the preservation of India’s cultural identity. Active intervention is crucial to ensure the preservation of these historical treasures, as their future remains at risk without immediate protective measures.

ASI’s Role

Established in 1861, the Archaeological Survey of India (ASI) is responsible for protecting and maintaining 3,698 monuments and archaeological sites that are considered of national importance. These sites are protected under the Ancient Monuments Preservation Act of 1904 and the Ancient Monuments and Archaeological Sites and Remains Act of 1958.

ASI preserves a wide range of heritage, including prehistoric rock shelters, Neolithic sites, megalithic burials, rock-cut caves, stupas, temples, churches, mosques, tombs, forts, palaces, and more. These sites reflect India’s rich cultural and architectural history.

Conservation involves addressing challenges that arise from the nature of construction, materials used, and environmental factors. Decay or deteriorating of protected monuments depends on nature and technique of their construction, material used, structural stability, climate factors, biological, botanical factors, encroachments, pollution, quarrying natural disasters, etc.

ASI tackles these challenges through its 37 Circle offices and 1 Mini Circle office, mainly located in state capitals, where it coordinates conservation efforts and environmental development. The goal is to maintain the integrity of these historical sites for future generations, ensuring they are preserved in their original form and continue to reflect India’s heritage.

Rise in Funding

Over the years, the revenue allocated for the preservation of monuments under the Archaeological Survey of India (ASI) has increased by 70%. In 2020-21, the allocation was ₹260.9 crores with an expenditure of ₹260.83 crore, while in 2023-24, both the allocation and expenditure rose to ₹443.53 crore.

India’s cultural heritage sites are regularly monitored to protect them from climate change impacts. The Archaeological Survey of India (ASI) is adopting climate-resilient solutions like scientific treatments and preservation techniques for heritage sites.

ASI, in collaboration with the Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO), has set up Automated Weather Stations (AWS) at historical monuments to monitor factors like wind speed, rainfall, temperature, and atmospheric pressure, to detect damage caused by climate change. Air Pollution Laboratories have been established at sites like the Taj Mahal in Agra and Bibi Ka Maqbara in Aurangabad to monitor air quality and pollutants. ASI holds regular meetings with other government bodies to create coordinated strategies for preserving cultural heritage sites in response to climate change.

The NDMA, in collaboration with ASI, has developed “National Disaster Management Guidelines” for cultural heritage sites, covering risk assessment, disaster preparedness, and recovery plans.

Legal Protection

The government has implemented various measures to safeguard cultural heritage from commercialization and urbanisation pressures. These include legal provisions, enforcement powers, and enhanced security to ensure the protection of monuments and archaeological sites.

Under the Ancient Monuments and Archaeological Sites and Remains Act, 1958, the Government has set rules to protect cultural heritage from encroachments and misuse. Superintending Archaeologists have the authority to issue eviction notices under the Public Premises (Eviction of Unauthorised Occupants) Act, 1971, to remove encroachments. ASI coordinates with State governments and police authorities to assist in removing encroachments and maintaining the safety of monuments.

In addition to regular watch and ward staff, private security personnel and the

CISF are deployed for the protection of select monuments. ASI follows the National Conservation Policy, 2014, for maintaining and conserving monuments, adjusting efforts based on available resources. The Section 30 of the Ancient Monuments and Archaeological Sites and Remains Act, 1958, enforces penalties for actions that damage or misuse protected monuments.

With legal frameworks, coordinated efforts, and strict security protocols, the Government is committed to preserving these historical treasures for future generations. Preserving India’s cultural heritage is an ongoing, multifaceted effort requiring proactive measures to address environmental, legal and security challenges. The ASI in collaboration with various agencies continues to monitor, protect and conserve the nation’s monumental treasures. With continued dedication, these efforts ensure that India’s rich history remains safeguarded for future generations to experience and appreciate. (PIB)