To protect India’s rich cultural heritage, ASI introduces the “Adopt a Heritage 2.0” project

The revolutionary “Adopt a Heritage 2.0” campaign from the Archaeological Survey of India (ASI) will be unveiled on September 4, 2023, at the Samvet Auditorium of the IGNCA in New Delhi. By engaging business stakeholders to improve the amenities of more than 3,600 monuments distributed across the nation, the project seeks to protect India’s rich cultural heritage. In addition to showcasing India’s rich cultural heritage, these monuments also considerably advance the nation’s economy.

In order to improve the amenities at these historic sites, ASI is contacting business partners as part of the “Adopt a Heritage 2.0” programme to use their business Social Responsibility (CSR) money. The amenities necessary for various monuments, as determined by the AMASR Act 1958, are highlighted in this updated version of the 2017 scheme. Through a specialised web portal at www.indianheritage.gov.in, interested parties can submit an application to adopt a monument or particular facilities. The portal offers thorough information about the monuments up for adoption, including a gap analysis and an anticipated cost.

G Kishan Reddy, the Union Minister of Culture, Tourism, and DoNER, graced the programme launch. The minister emphasised the crucial part that cultural heritage plays in defining a country’s identity during his speech. He said, “Our heritage monuments are not mere structures, they are living testaments of our history, art and architecture. The ‘Adopt a Heritage 2.0’ programme seeks to foster collaboration with corporate stakeholders through which they can contribute in preserving these monuments for our upcoming generations”.

In-depth research, discussions with many parties, and evaluations of the prospects for economic and developmental growth at each monument are all part of the selection process for stakeholders. The creation, provision, and upkeep of amenities in the areas of hygienic practises, accessibility, safety, and knowledge will be the responsibility of the chosen stakeholders. Their involvement will establish them as honourable organisations that value cultural heritage. With a chance of extension, the initial appointment term will last for five years.

The mobile app “Indian Heritage”-

A user-friendly mobile app called “Indian Heritage” has been unveiled to go along with the program’s debut. According to state, the app would include descriptions and images of historical sites in India. Additionally, it will give users access to geo-tagged locations, information about public amenities, and a feedback system. The software will be released in stages, with Phase I including ticketed monuments and Phase II covering the rest.

ASI is also launching an e-permission portal

In order to speed up the process of acquiring permissions for photography, videography, and development projects at monuments, ASI is also launching an e-permission portal (www.asipermissionportal.gov.in). The deployment of the site intends to accelerate different approvals and get around practical and logistical issues.

With the introduction of the “Indian Heritage” app, e-permission portal, and “Adopt a Heritage 2.0” programme, ASI is making considerable progress in protecting India’s cultural heritage and encouraging responsible participation with its monuments. These historic treasures will be protected for present and future generations thanks to the collaboration between ASI and corporate stakeholders.

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