Rationalization of Centrally Protected Monuments

• 23 Sep 2023

A recent parliamentary committee report on the 'Functioning of Archaeological Survey of India' has suggested significant changes to the management of India's cultural heritage.

Key Points

• Rationalizing Protected Monuments: The committee suggests reevaluating the list of centrally protected monuments in India based on their national significance and unique architectural and heritage value.
• Archaic Era: The report points out that a substantial number of these monuments lack national importance, including colonial-era graves with minimal historical or architectural significance.
• Government's Proposed Legislation: This recommendation aligns with the government's intention to reintroduce the Ancient Monuments and Archaeological Sites and Remains (AMASR) (Amendment) Bill, aiming to redefine monuments and their surrounding areas.
• Aim of Legislation: The legislation aims to modernize the criteria for protected monuments, possibly moving away from the current 100-year-old benchmark, in line with efforts to disassociate from India's colonial past.
• Review of Prohibited Areas: The AMASR Act currently imposes construction restrictions up to 100 meters around protected monuments, extending to 200 meters as regulated areas.
• The report anticipates potential amendments to relax these restrictions, especially for less significant monuments, such as statues, cemeteries, and cannons.
• ASI Restructuring: To enhance the Archaeological Survey of India's effectiveness, the committee recommends dividing it into two wings: the Archaeological Survey of India (ASI) and the India Heritage Development Corporation (IHDC).
• Twin Objectives: ASI would focus on exploration, excavation, and conservation, while IHDC would manage revenue-related activities like ticket sales, auctions, and cafe operations.