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Preserving India’s Cultural Heritage: Challenges and Conservation Efforts
Context:
India, a country known for its rich and diverse cultural history, is home to some of the world’s most iconic monuments and archaeological treasures. From the intricately carved temples of Khajuraho and the historic ruins of Hampi to the revered Somnath temple.
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- These monuments span from the Himalayas in the north to Kanyakumari in the south, showcasing India’s rich history, diverse traditions, and architectural brilliance.
- However, climate change and extreme weather patterns threaten their preservation, necessitating active intervention to protect India’s cultural identity.
Impact of Climate Change on Cultural Sites
- Climate change is accelerating the deterioration of historical landmarks, including:
- Rising sea levels affecting coastal monuments
- Heatwaves and forest fires damaging ancient structures
- Torrential rains and strong winds eroding heritage sites
- Without immediate protective measures, these sites risk irreparable damage.
Role of the Archaeological Survey of India (ASI)
- Established in 1861, ASI protects and maintains 3,698 national monuments under:
- The Ancient Monuments Preservation Act (1904)
- The Ancient Monuments and Archaeological Sites and Remains Act (1958)
- ASI preserves diverse heritage, including:
- Prehistoric rock shelters
- Neolithic sites
- Rock-cut caves
- Temples, churches, mosques, forts, palaces, and tombs
ASI’s Organisational Structure & Funding
- Circle Offices: ASI operates 37 Circle offices and 1 Mini Circle office, mainly in state capitals, to coordinate conservation and environmental efforts.
- Funding Growth: The funding for monument preservation has increased by 70%. In 2020-21, ₹260.90 crores were allocated, which grew to ₹443.53 crores in 2023-24.
Climate-Resilient Strategies for Preservation
- Regular Monitoring and Climate Adaptation: ASI regularly monitors cultural sites to assess climate-related damage. Climate-resilient techniques include scientific preservation methods to protect monuments.
- Technological Interventions:
- Automated Weather Stations (AWS): ASI and ISRO have installed AWS at historical sites to monitor: Wind speed, rainfall, temperature, and atmospheric pressure.
- Air Pollution Monitoring: Laboratories at the Taj Mahal (Agra) and Bibi Ka Maqbara (Aurangabad) monitor air quality and pollutant levels.
- Disaster Management and International Collaboration: Coordination with government agencies to formulate climate-response strategies. Participation in international workshops on disaster management in collaboration with:
- National Disaster Management Authority (NDMA)
- United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organisation (UNESCO)
- National Disaster Management Guidelines: ASI and NDMA created frameworks covering risk assessment, disaster preparedness, and recovery plans.
Legal and Security Measures for Cultural Heritage Protection
- Legal Framework: The Ancient Monuments and Archaeological Sites and Remains Act, 1958 prevents:
- Encroachments and unauthorised modifications of heritage sites.
- Section 30 of the Act enforces penalties for monument misuse and damage.
- Encroachment and Security Measures:
- Eviction Authority: ASI Superintending Archaeologists can issue eviction notices under the Public Premises (Eviction of Unauthorised Occupants) Act, 1971.
- Collaboration with Law Enforcement: ASI works with State Governments and police to prevent encroachments.
- Enhanced Security: Deployment of CISF personnel and private security for select monuments.
- Conservation Guidelines: ASI follows the National Conservation Policy (2014) for heritage site maintenance.
