भारत में विरासत प्रबंधन की चुनौतियाँ और नीतिगत उपाय

Choose Report Type

Publication Date

Wed, 10/27/2021 - 17:57

Report Upload

Download (11.35 MB)

vertical

पर्यटन और संस्कृति

PDF Text

A Research Project for NITI Aayog | 1
For NITI Aayog
October 2021
by DRONAH
Challenges faced in
Heritage Management in India
and Policy Imperatives
This study was carried out with financial support of NITI Aayog, Government of India,
and conducted by DRONAH, A-258, South City -1, Gurugram 122001 Haryana. 2 |Challenges faced in Heritage Management in India and Policy Imperatives A Research Project for NITI Aayog | 3
Hoysaleshwara Temple, Halebidu;
Source - DRONAH
The Organization DRONAH has received financial
assistance under the Research Scheme of NITI Aayog
(RSNA-2018) to prepare this report.
While due care has been exercised to prepare the report
using the data from various sources, NITI Aayog does
not confirm the authenticity of data and accuracy of
the methodology to prepare the report. NITI Aayog
shall not be held responsible for findings or opinions
expressed in the document. This responsibility com-
pletely rests with DRONAH.
Disclaimer
Cover Image - Oont Kadal, Srinagar;
Source - DRONAH 4 |Challenges faced in Heritage Management in India and Policy Imperatives
Research Project Team
Mr Ravindra Singh, Advisor
Dr. Rima Hooja, Principal Investigator
Dr. Shikha Jain, Project Lead
Samvida Rai, Conservation Architect
Somya Johri, Conservation Architect
Ayesha Parveen, Architect
Field Survey Team of Architects and Draughtspersons
Bajrang Saini, Deepak Saini, Sowmya PS, Karthika
Yegyanarain, Muthazhagu Narayan, Prathyaksha Krishna
Prasad, Parul Pattnaik, Ridhima Mahadik, Kulgaurvi Singh
Ranawat, Nitin Jain, Rachan Puneet Singh, Ravi Sandhu,
Krishan Kumar Yadav, Anvi Singh
Graphics and Formatting
Suresh Bhayut, Zoeanna Upadhyay, Sarita Jain, Ishita Garg,
Anant Basudev Shadangi, Yogesh Tripathi
Sun Temple, Modhera, Gujarat;
Source - Samvida Rai A Research Project for NITI Aayog | 5 6 |Challenges faced in Heritage Management in India and Policy Imperatives
Acknowledgements
We thank the following organisations and individuals who
have contributed in the collation and verification of this Na-
tional Heritage Database and Research Project:
NITI Aayog for its vision and support throughout the project
in contacting and following up with numerous government
organisations across India.
Mr. Amitabh Kant, CEO NITI Aayog,
Dr. Yogesh Suri, Senior Adviser (Research), NITI Aayog,
Mr. Avinash Mishra, Adviser (Tourism and Culture), NITI
Aayog,
Mr. Kulwant Rana, Deputy Secretary (Research), NITI Aayog,
Ms Sharmistha Sinha, Deputy Director, NITI Aayog.
Central Ministries and their associate organisations, spe-
cifically ASI-NMMA and IGNCA, Ministry of Culture, Min-
istry of Railways, Postal Directorate, NIUA and CPWD, Mo-
HUA,, Prasar Bharti Secretariat and CSIR-National Institute
of Oceanography, various ASI Circles where SAs made extra
effort to provide this database Agra Circle, Bhopal Circle,
Chennai Circle, Delhi Circle, Lucknow Circle, Sarnath Circle,
Jhansi Circle, Bhubaneshwar Circle, Guwahati Circle, Aizawl
Circle, Jammu Circle, Jaipur Circle and Nagpur Circle A Research Project for NITI Aayog | 7
State Departments of Archaeology, Tourism, En-
dowments and Forests in Arunachal Pradesh, Mad-
hya Pradesh, Karnataka, Odisha, Punjab, Maharashtra,
Meghalaya, Mizoram, Jammu and Kashmir, Rajasthan,
Sikkim, UP, Telangana, Himachal Pradesh, Bihar and
Haryana
Municipal Corporations – Ahmedabad, Mum-
bai-MMRHCS, Jaipur, Surat, Nashik, Chandigarh
Waqf Board -Jaunpur Waqf Board and Rajasthan
Board of Muslim Waqf
Religious Trusts and Institutions
SGPC, Digamber Jain Trust
NGOs and Foundations
INTACH, Bihar Virasat Samiti, Bihar. IHCN-F, Kar-
nataka, Braj Kshetra, Vrindavan Research Institute, Fr.
Jervis – CBCI, Sahitya Sansthan (Inst. of Rajasthan
Studies), JRN Rajasthan Vidyapeeth
Institutions
CEPT-Ahmedabad, IPSA Kewal Krishan, Panjab Uni-
versity, AIIS Gurugram, French Institute of Pondicher-
ry
Heritage Professionals and Experts
Dr. K C Nauriyal, Aishwarya Tipnis, Munish Pandit,
Anjali Bharthari, Poonam Verma Mascarenhas, Riddhi
Shah, Ellora Ghosh, Ridhima Bajaj, Rishabh Sharma,
Shabi-ul-hamd, Ms Purnima Chauhan, Former Secy,
Culture, Himachal Pradesh, Mr. Pankaj Rag, Resident
Commissioner, MP, and Late Shri Pramod Mande for
his listing on Forts of India
About 500 organisations (government, private) and in-
dividuals were approached across India in a span of one
year to collate this database. Only images verified on
site through these sources were included to arrive at
almost 60,000 images for a total listing of 100,000 plus
structures across India. All data received from Govern-
ment organisations is verified by the respective depart-
ments or is collated from their official websites, verified
onsite by professionals and institutions involved and
also sourced from DRONAH Archives for various cit-
ies and states besides fresh onsite verification in certain
areas. This is a dynamic process and a number of or-
ganisations who could not provide this information due
to Covid lockdowns have promised to supplement this
database in the future. 8 |Challenges faced in Heritage Management in India and Policy Imperatives A Research Project for NITI Aayog | 9
Contents
Disclaimer.....................................................................................................3
Research Project Team....................................................................................4
Acknowledgements..........................................................................................6
Executive Summary.......................................................................................11
1. Background............................................................................................21
2. Mapping Built Heritage.........................................................................27
3. The Heritage Custodians & Stakeholders............................................55
4. Heritage Legislation..............................................................................149
5. Challenges and Policy Imperatives for India’s Heritage...................213
Bibliography..................................................................................................231
List of Acronyms..........................................................................................239
Annexures....................................................................................................241
Sisodia Garden, Jaipur;
Source - DRONAH 10 |Challenges faced in Heritage Management in India and Policy Imperatives A Research Project for NITI Aayog | 11
Executive Summary
One of the biggest challenges for the Heritage Sector of India is how to record,
document, protect, preserve, reuse, interpret and showcase the wide range of
protected and unprotected built heritage and archaeological spread across the
vast expanse of the country. While pan India mission such as NMMA under
ASI, IGNCA, Ministry of Culture as well as NGO initiatives such as INTACH,
AIIS, French Institute of Pondicherry have attempted nationwide and region-
al listing and documentation of built heritage; we are far from achieving the
required target of recording 500,000 heritage structures. In a country of such
cultural diversity, geographical variance and centuries old remains, a much larger
network of organisations including public and private sector bodies along with
professionals and institutions are required to address this challenge in totality at
national, regional and local levels.
This research work commissioned by NITI Aayog is one of the first
basic attempt to understand the quantum, nature and location of our built
heritage across the country in order to arrive at some primary policies and
guidelines for its long-term protection, conservation and promotion.
The key inquiries to assess the entire built heritage in India are:
Forest Research Institute, Dehradun;
Source - DRONAH
“
” 12 |Challenges faced in Heritage Management in India and Policy Imperatives
1. What is the total number of built heritage structures
(protected and unprotected) in the country?
2. What are the built heritage categories and typologies
and their nation-wide dispersal? How can this data sup-
port conservation and reuse of our built heritage?
3. Who are the custodians of our built heritage includ-
ing public and private sector organisations/ individuals
and NGOs?
4. What are the various government schemes for fund-
ing and conservation of built heritage in India?
5. What are the various legislations at international, na-
tional, state and local level for the built heritage of our
country?
6. What should be the long-term policy imperatives for
India’s built heritage at central, state and local level?
While few of these issues were addressed in the NITI
Aayog report on ‘Improving Heritage Management in
India’ (2020), it was primarily focused on prime protect-
ed heritage of the country and, on restructuring of ASI.
This report continues in a similar stream to provide a
more detailed view of the larger quantum of unpro-
tected built heritage of India along with classifying it
into categories, typologies and ownerships for arriving
at suitable policies.
National Initiatives for Built
Heritage Mapping
This research covers basic inventory and analysis of
100000 plus heritage structures including images of
around 60000. Considering the current database avail-
able with other national level organisations this may be
considered as the first ever consolidation of basic in-
formation and statistical data of India’s built heritage in
such large numbers.
1. INTACH with its 220 plus chapters across India has
been involved in listing of unprotected built heritage
since 1980s. While it has covered 60,000 plus structures
in total with a detailed listing format; currently it is vali-
dating and updating this data. At present, INTACH has
shared 8022 authenticated structures with images with
NITI Aayog while validation of remaining structures
may take a few years.
2. NMMA initiated built heritage listing and has sec-
ondary data for 1,86,000 structures but with very few
images. They need to undertake 2nd phase of data ver-
ification on site.
The numbers themselves have little meaning unless we
understand the concentration and spread of this heri-
tage across the country, its range of typologies, its loca-
tional context and its level of protection. A Research Project for NITI Aayog | 13
4377
Mapping of 100,000 plus heritage structures (protected and unprotected) across India (refer annexures for details); Source - DRONAH
100,000+
TOTAL NUMBER OF SITES LISTED: NITI AAYOG
100,000+ 14 |Challenges faced in Heritage Management in India and Policy Imperatives
An overview of mapping of 100,000 structures across
India brings forth following key issues:
1. Only 7 percent of the mapped built heritage struc-
tures are protected.
2. India currently has no separate recognition for cer-
tain heritage categories such as routes, cultural land-
scapes, historic cities, industrial heritage. even though
some of these are on the Tentative List of UNESCO
or even inscribed as World Heritage Sites.
3. The typological analysis of protected and unpro-
tected built heritage reveals that 80 percent, the largest
quantum (whether protected or, unprotected) compris-
es of religious monuments including temples, mosques,
churches, stupas, monasteries and others, Archaeolog-
ical sites and remains form the next significant com-
ponent of our tangible heritage. Forts, Fortifications
and Palaces is another significant typology found in
abundance in most states ranging from early fortifica-
tions, battlefields and palaces to the later military can-
tonments.
4. Availability of listing for unprotected sites greatly
varies in states. Rajasthan and Tamil Nadu have max-
imum listed structures. Karnataka, Maharashtra, Guja-
rat, UP, MP, Bihar and Orissa may have equally large
numbers but there is no major listing currently available
from these states.
5. Potential numbers of heritage structures and sites
across India will be beyond 500000 in total.
Heritage Custodians and
Stakeholders
A comprehensive review of most stakeholders of In-
dia’s built heritage at national, state and local level in-
dicate that several central ministries and their associate
organisations (beyond the Ministry of Culture and ASI)
own and need to conserve their built heritage while few
are actively involved in heritage tourism promotion and
funding.
At the State Level, there are primarily various organi-
sations associated with heritage ownership, protection,
and conservation.
An analysis of these departments shows few of them
are equipped with protecting and conserving their heri-
tage such as the Ministry of Railways. While a majority
of these organisations require more awareness on the
category and value of the heritage they own along with
capacity building for conservation.
India has a large number of institutions imparting ed-
ucation in heritage conservation and management. It
also has several active NGOs at central, state and local
levels who are actively working on listing, conserving
and promoting India’s built heritage though outreach
programmes. It is important to involve these institu-
tions and NGOs more actively with the government or-
ganisations at central and state level for capacity build-
ing in heritage conservation and management through
collaborative MoUs, outreach activities and training
programmes. A Research Project for NITI Aayog | 15
Ministry/ Organisation Number and Type of Built Heritage
Ministry of Culture – ASI and
Other Departments
40 World Heritage Sites with ASI as nodal agency, 3693 centrally protected
under ASI, 50 Site Museums, 7 Museums, 14 Libraries, 39 sites under Gandhi
Heritage Sites Mission with 2000 total listed sites to be further reserved.
MoHUA - CPWD50 under CPWD along with MoHUA programmes for promoting historic cit-
ies conservation across Indian cities.
Ministry of Railways 210 buildings, stations, bridges and tunnels listed as heritage under their Heri-
tage Directorate. Also manages the World Heritage Sites of CST, Mumbai and
Mountain Railways of India
Ministry of Shipping 99 lighthouses
Ministry of Communications36 Heritage GPOs and Post Offices recognised as Heritage. Own 12000 Post
Offices built before independence that need to be inspected.
Ministry of I&B All India Radio, Prasar Bharti and other similar office buildings that need to be
evaluated for their heritage value
Ministry of Education 19 colleges granted Heritage Status with funding for conservation. Several
more institutions may qualify.
MoEFCC8 World Heritage Sites across India, 101 National Parks, 553 Sanctuaries, 249
conservation and community reserves,903 protected areas, 15 botanical and
465 zoological parks that may have forest guest houses and built heritage with-
in the natural sites.
MoYASNational Institute of Sports (Palace at Patiala) and Old Stadiums
Ministry of Tourism Promotional Heritage Tourism Schemes (Adopt a Heritage and PRASHAD)
and Circuits such as Swadesh Darshan
Ministry of External AffairsInternational Collaborations for Conservation of Sites in other countries.
Ministry of Defence 62 cantonments
Ministry of Mines - GSIPromotes Geo Tourism. Have declared 36 heritage structures under fossil
parks, rock monuments, geological marvels and other sites. These also qualify
as cultural landscapes.
Ministry of Science& Tech10 underwater archaeological sites excavated by the NIO
Ministry of Minority Affairs –
CWC and NCM
More than 700000 buildings and sites that need to be sorted to list the heritage
structures. It is likely that more than 50 percent will be of heritage value
Table - Central Ministries and Organisations owning/ funding/ promoting Built Heritage 16 |Challenges faced in Heritage Management in India and Policy Imperatives
It is important that other Central Ministries of India
and associated departments understand the value of
built heritage owned and maintained by them. Depend-
ing on the number of heritage structures under each
ministry, they may consider making a Heritage Board/
Advisory Committee and engaging organisations such
as CPWD for conservation works in the future.
Department/ OrganisationNumber and Type of Built Heritage
State Archaeology Departments4377 protected structures across India as of 2021
Local Municipalities Approximately 60 cities and 30000 heritage structures across India
State Forest DepartmentsForest Rest houses and built heritage in forest areas (number to be determined)
Religious Endowments/TrustsApproximately 200000 heritage structures across India
State PWDs, State Revenue Departments, Irrigation an others also own heritage properties that need to be listed.
Legislation for Built Heritage
A comprehensive review of Heritage Legislation, con-
ventions, charters, policies, Acts, and rules from inter-
national to national, state and local level in India indi-
cate the following issues:
1. The ASI (AMASR Act, 2010) and subsequent State
Archaeology Acts under the respective State Depart-
ments are the primary source of protection for India’s
most significant National Heritage. However, they only
cover approximately 8000 structures (3693 under ASI
and 4377 across the states. While it is encouraging
that both ASI and State Departments of Archaeology
are annually including more sites under their Acts yet
the required number for protection is far from being
achieved. Moreover, the resources of these Depart-
ments are limited for handling the number of monu-
ments and sites already protected under them.
2. As outlined in the NITI Aayog Heritage Report 2020,
the byelaws to be prepared by NMA (National Monu-
ments Authority) under AMASR 2010 for the regulat-
ed zones around 3693 ASI protected sites are mostly
pending and need to be expedited.
3. India has no national, state or local level acts for cer-
tain categories such as cultural landscapes, routes and
historic cities.
4. A large quantum of archaeological remains in India
are unprotected and it has no National level legislation/
charter/policy for Underwater Archaeological Heritage
even though being a peninsular country it has incredibly
significant sites under this category.
5. Model Building Byelaws, MBBL 2016 by TCPO and
MoHUA need to be adopted by all local bodies in vari-
ous cities. Most of the existing State Town and Country
Planning Acts do not have a heritage related clause/
legislation. These need to be amended urgently. A Research Project for NITI Aayog | 17
6. Most of the states do not have any nodal depart-
ment/Commission for dealing with non-archaeological
heritage. Heritage Cells with clarity of terms of refer-
ence need to be established in all cities under the Mu-
nicipalities Act.
Challenges and Policies
The quantum of our built heritage is very vast and, they
belong to different layers of history of the country. It
is important to realise that most of these are living and
continuing so, a more local and indigenous approach
is required for its conservation and reuse as opposed
to the conventional western charters or minimal inter-
vention practiced for monumental heritage. It needs to
be recognised that our built heritage requires integra-
tion into the mainstream development of towns and
cities for its long-term sustainability. It can serve as an
important socio-economic tool for development if its
cultural and economic value is realised in its contex-
tual setting barring archaeological sites, where re-use
can lead to loss of unrecorded data. This caveat applies
even if the sites have been previously excavated since
none of our sites can be said to have yielded up all the
information about the past. 18 |Challenges faced in Heritage Management in India and Policy Imperatives
Policy Imperatives outlined in this report include:
1. Creation of a National Heritage Database and Doc-
umenting Archaeological Remains in the Country
2. Legislation for the Unprotected Heritage and Recog-
nition of New Types
3. Policy for an Indian Conservation Approach for our
Living Heritage and Adaptive Reuse
4. Funding for Conservation
5. Capacity Building at all levels
Besides these recommendations to be taken up for In-
dia’s built heritage at National Level, Key Policy Imper-
atives are outlined for Central bodies, States and UTs
based on a detailed analysis of the nature of built her-
itage in different states of India in the last chapter of
this report.
A Central Sector Scheme for listing of built heritage
including archaeological remains need to be developed
for supporting various state governments to undertake
listing and to understand the potential of their rich her-
itage.
Key Policy Imperatives
A. Legislative Framework:
Protection of ‘unrecognised categories’ and ‘unpro-
tected built heritage’ at local, state and national
level example historic cities and cultural landscapes.
B. Administrative:
Policies for Ministerial/Departments owned Her-
itage Buildings for example Ministry of Railways
that has inventoried and categorised its built heri-
tage and artefacts along with developing special her-
itage codes.
C. Financial:
Awareness of existing Government Schemes and
more tax incentives for investing in conservation
and reuse of heritage example tax rebate on heri-
tage hotels, conservation of private historic houses.
D. Institutional:
Promoting Heritage Capacity Building Programs
for Mapping/Conservation/ Reuse of Built Her-
itage through collaborations with institutions and
implementation of National Education Policy
2020.
“
”
Temples at Kumbakonam; Source -
DRONAH A Research Project for NITI Aayog | 19 20 |Challenges faced in Heritage Management in India and Policy Imperatives A Research Project for NITI Aayog | 21
1
Background 22 |Challenges faced in Heritage Management in India and Policy Imperatives A Research Project for NITI Aayog | 23
The built cultural heritage of India is in abundance as has been recorded in sev-
eral previous official documents by ASI, Ministry of Culture and NITI Aayog
(NITI Aayog, 2020). The biggest challenge facing India is how to record, doc-
ument, protect, preserve, reuse, interpret and showcase the wide range of pro-
tected and unprotected built heritage sites and structures spread across the vast
expanse of the country. While pan India built heritage mapping by organisations
such as IGNCA and NMMA under ASI, Ministry of Culture as well as NGO
initiatives such as INTACH is being attempted; we are far from achieving the
required target of recording 500,000 heritage structures. Among other national
database resources, the French Institute of Pondicherry and the American Insti-
tute of Indian Studies, Gurugram also have substantial photo archives of built
heritage. However the available total count of built heritage structures (includ-
ing authenticated images) in these organisations is no more than 10000 till date.
In a country of such cultural diversity, geographical variance and centuries old
remains a much larger network of organisations including public and private
sector bodies along with professionals and institutions are required to address
this challenge in totality.
Sculpture of tenth Avatar of Vishnu,
Rani ki Vav, Gujarat; Source - DRONAH
Separator Image: Darbargarh, Gondal,
Gujarat; Source - DRONAH 24 |Challenges faced in Heritage Management in India and Policy Imperatives
This research work commissioned by NITI Aayog is
one of the first basic attempts to understand the quan-
tum, nature and location of our built heritage across
the country in order to arrive at some primary poli-
cies and guidelines for its long-term conservation and
promotion. While organisations such as INTACH and
NMMA are involved in much more comprehensive list-
ing work, the NITI Aayog basic inventory will serve as
a useful reference at national level for all organisations
and individuals working in this sector
Structure of the Report
The key inquiries to assess the entire built heritage
in India are structured in 5 Chapters in this report:
1. What is the total number of built heritage structures
in the country? What are the categories or typologies?
An approximate number of 500000 structures was
mentioned in the NITI Aayog report 2020. An inven-
tory of 100000 plus structures (with images for around
60000) is annexed with this Report.
2. What is the nature of our built heritage? Can we cate-
gorise it for appropriate conservation and reuse? Chap-
ter two of this report presents the mapping and analysis
of 100000 plus listed structures across India to arrive at
an understanding of the nature or categories of built
heritage of India. With this mapping it may be feasible
to define policy guidelines for reuse of various catego-
ries such as forest rest houses and heritage homes that
can be used for hospitality and tourism, water bodies
and historic gardens that can be developed as recre-
ational zones and, archaeological sites that can be de-
veloped into trails with conservation and interpretation.
3. Who are the custodians of our built heritage in-
cluding most public and private sector organisations/
individuals and NGOs? Chapter three of this report
further elaborates on the departments, organisations
and NGOs at national and state level as mentioned in
the NITI Aayog 2020 Report and, extends the heritage
managers’ database to include most stakeholders at the
state and local level who are working in the field of her-
itage. The report also takes into account active NGOs
in each state which can work alongside concerned gov-
ernment departments to support heritage conservation
and reuse.
What are the various government and non-government
schemes for funding and conservation of built heri-
tage in India? While the key schemes were outlined in
the 2020 Heritage report of NITI Aayog, further infor-
mation is provided along the same lines to cover most
local, state, national and international funding for heri-
tage projects in India.
4. How much of our built heritage is under protection?
Under which organisations? What is the quantum of
unprotected heritage?
Chapter 4 analyses this mapping of protected, unpro-
tected structures in terms of existing heritage regula-
tion. One of the key challenges for India’s built heri
tage is its state of protection. While ASI and State Ar-
chaeology Departments are barely able to manage the
centrally and state protected structures, the vast quan-
tum of buildings and sites lie unprotected. This chapter
also compiles and analyses all international, national, A Research Project for NITI Aayog | 25
state and local level charters, policies, acts, byelaws and
guidelines applicable for the built heritage of this coun-
try today. Besides this, the chapter also covers the lacu-
nae in heritage legislation across India.
5. The concluding Chapter 5 presents Policies and
Actions to be taken up for conserving, reusing and
promoting the vast built heritage of our country. The
Policies are based on the holistic mapping and under-
standing of the nature and state of built heritage in the
country. They are also customised to states and specific
cultural context or typology as one rule cannot apply to
all kinds. Possibly this approach to the built heritage will
ensure greater protection and sustenance of our vast
heritage repository.
Though these issues were addressed in the NITI Aayog
report on ‘Improving Heritage Management in India’
(2020), it was mostly focused on prime heritage of the
country and, on restructuring of ASI. This report con-
tinues in a similar stream to provide a more detailed
view of the larger quantum of unprotected built her-
itage of India along with classifying it into categories
and ownerships for arriving at suitable policies. It also
provides an overview of the status of built heritage
in India and the need for more stakeholders to get in-
volved. 26 |Challenges faced in Heritage Management in India and Policy Imperatives A Research Project for NITI Aayog | 27
2
Mapping Built Heritage 28 |Challenges faced in Heritage Management in India and Policy Imperatives A Research Project for NITI Aayog | 29
This chapter is an attempt at quantitative and qualitative mapping of India’s
Built Cultural Heritage.
Ongoing National Initiatives for Listing
INTACH
There are two pan India initiatives for documentation of built heritage struc-
tures; the first one was initiated by INTACH with listing of protected and pro-
tected structures. INTACH has a total listing of 60602 prepared since 1984 .
Those with images are approximately 52000 but most are being verified and au-
thenticated. INTACH could provide 8022 authenticated images for this report.
Their target for the next 5 years is to reach 100000 sites with their dedicated
listing programme and trained professionals.. A note on provided by INTACH
on their listing process is enclosed in the annexure (Refer Annexure).
Separator Image: Udaipur; Source -
DRONAH, 2021
100,000 plus Listed Heritage Structures
in India; Source - DRONAH, 2021 30 |Challenges faced in Heritage Management in India and Policy Imperatives
Mapping of Built Heritage Inventories undertaken by INTACH; Source - INTACH A Research Project for NITI Aayog | 31
NMMA
The National Mission of Monuments and Antiquities
launched by Ministry of Culture in 2007 and, currently
functioning under ASI is another pan India initiative for
documentation of antiquities and built heritage to pre-
pare a National Register from different sources across
India in a uniform format. They state that “Only few
among the large number of remarkably varied monu-
ments in India are protected by Central or State Gov-
ernment. NMMA has taken up the task of documenting
the remaining unprotected Built Heritage from primary
or secondary sources in the prescribed format.”
NMMA’s documentation work on antiquities has crossed
5 Lakhs with 1259831 available online while the work
on built heritage covers 186000 structures through sec-
ondary sources including 60000 earlier listings provided
by INTACH in 2010. Among these 11406 are available
online but most of these have no images. NMMA is
also sorting the data collected from its gazetteers but
it requires verifying on site with image of the building.
National Mission on Monuments and Antiquities (NMMA) Website Homepage ; Source - nmma.nic.in 32 |Challenges faced in Heritage Management in India and Policy Imperatives
Considering that both INTACH and
NMMA have an exhaustive documentation for-
mat and, they are in process of revising the past
documentation work with physical verification on
site it will take substantial time to arrive at a com-
prehensive National Register for India.
Mapping of Built Heritage by
NITI Aayog
This chapter is an attempt at quantitative and qualitative
mapping of India’s Built Cultural Heritage.
For Mapping of this Built Heritage, about 100000 her-
itage structures are inventoried to some detail and an-
“
”
8022
Status of Mapping of Built Heritage in India; Source - DRONAH A Research Project for NITI Aayog | 33
nexed in this report. The numbers themselves have little
meaning unless we understand the concentration and
spread of this heritage across the country, its range of
typologies, its locational context and its level of recog-
nition/protection.
Hence, the mapping of entire built heritage across the
spread of India is presented in this chapter in two for-
mats:
A. As per recognition and protection system: World
Heritage Sites, Nationally Protected Heritage, State
Protected Heritage, Locally Protected Heritage and Un-
protected Heritage. And,
B. As per the various typologies of India’s built her-
itage: Archaeological Sites (including Underwater Ar-
chaeology), Cultural Landscapes, Historic Cities, Forts
and Palaces, Historic Gardens, Waterbodies and Step-
wells, Administrative, Public Buildings, Residential and
Industrial built heritage.
A. Built Heritage Mapping as
per Recognition and Protection
The distribution of first 100000 plus structures in-
ventoried in this research project shows the spread of
3693 Centrally protected structures, 4377 state protect-
ed structures and 90000 plus heritage structures under
various other government and private ownership which
are largely unprotected. A state wise distribution of the
protected and unprotected structures is mapped and
shown on pg 51.
1. UNESCO World Heritage Sites
Among the category for protection and recognition,
the UNESCO World Heritage Sites occupy the highest
position as they are protected at national, state, or local
level along with a commitment of the nodal agency ASI
for their management and their State of Conservation
to the World Heritage Committee at an international
level. As of August 2021, India has 40 World Heritage
Sites (32 Cultural, 7 Natural and 1 Mixed Site) as shown
in the map. Amongst the cultural sites, UNESCO has
sub-categories such as Historic Cities, Cultural Land-
scapes, Cultural Routes, Urban Ensembles, Industrial
Heritage, Modern Heritage, Group of Monuments,
Single Monument and Sites. India’s World Heritage
Sites and the ones on the tentative list have a good rep-
resentation for each of these typologies. In terms of
ownership, and protection 25 of the 32 cultural sites
are owned and protected by ASI and the rest by various
States.
2. Centrally Protected
The pan India spread of centrally protected structure
shows the widest concentrations in the state of Ut-
tar Pradesh, Karnataka and Tamil Nadu followed by
Madhya Pradesh, Maharashtra, Gujarat, Rajasthan and
Delhi. Most of the remaining northern, eastern and
south-eastern states have less than 100 centrally pro-
tected structures. Among the State Protected sites, Kar-
nataka and Madhya Pradesh have the largest numbers
followed by Rajasthan, Gujarat and Telangana, Ma-
harashtra and Andhra while most of north, east and
northeastern states show less concentration. 34 |Challenges faced in Heritage Management in India and Policy Imperatives
World Heritage Sites of India; Source - DRONAH, 2021 A Research Project for NITI Aayog | 35
Heritage Sites on the Tentative List; Source - DRONAH, 2021
Besides these, 10 Natural sites are also included in the
Tentative list 36 |Challenges faced in Heritage Management in India and Policy Imperatives
Centrally Protected Heritage Structures under Archaeological Survey of India; Source - DRONAH, 2021
State/UT(All)
ASI Sites- 3693
Row L abe l sCount of Built typology
Adminsitrative Structures5
Archeological Sites749
Archeological Sites- caves88
Cultural Landscapes4
Forts and Palaces490
Historic Gardens22
Industrial Sites20
Institutional Structures11
Memorial Structures437
Public Building236
Religious Structures1471
Residential Structures50
Water Structures and Water Bodies 101
Archaeological Sites-sculptures9
Grand Total3693 A Research Project for NITI Aayog | 37
State Protected Heritage Structures under State Archaeology Departments; Source - DRONAH, 2021
State Protected Sites - 4371
Row Labe lsCount of Built typology
Adminsitrative Structures40
Archaeological Sites723
Archaeol ogi cal SItes -Caves57
Cultural Landscapes18
Forts and Pal aces 574
Historic Gardens16
Industrial Sites19
Institutional Structures25
Memorial Structures326
Public Buildings117
Religious Structures2183
Residential Structures111
Water Structures and Water Bodies 162
Grand Total43714377
4377 38 |Challenges faced in Heritage Management in India and Policy Imperatives
In terms of Typology, ASI has approximately 1471 re-
ligious monuments, 749 archaeological sites, 490 forts,
fortifications and palaces, 437 memorial structures be-
sides others as historic gardens, water structures and
public buildings. State protected sites show a similar
typology break up with 2183 religious monuments, 723
archaeological sites, 574 forts and palaces, 326 memori-
als and rest of other types.
Among the 90000 plus unprotected heritage listed,
more than 80 percent is religious heritage under vari-
ous endowments act, Devsthan Departments and Waqf
Board, 2794 archaeological sites, 5443 forts and palaces,
2372 memorial besides other types in very small num-
bers.
B. Built Heritage Mapping as per
Typologies
1. Archaeological Sites (including
Underwater Archaeology)
Among total of 4186 sites mapped under this category,
India has 749 ‘archaeological sites and remains’ under
central protection, 723 sites ‘archaeological sites and
remains’ under protection of different states with bal-
ance as unprotected areas. The nature of archaeological
sites and remains ranges from ancient site mounds of
varying sizes, mostly with baked or even unbaked brick
structures, pottery and associated remains; stone, ter-
racotta, metal, bone, ivory, semi-precious and precious
gems and fabricated artefacts of different centuries; in-
scriptions; megalithic burials; cairns, cists, stone circles,
Distribution of Archaeological Sites across India as per mapping of 100,000
structures; Source - DRONAH, 2021
cromlechs, dolmens, prehistoric burials, urn burials; stu-
pa and stupa remains; commemorative remains, burials,
objects; caves with ritual objects, sculpture, meditation
and habitation remains; rock-cut figures; statues; caves
with rock art; burial mounds; city walls; prehistoric
remains; rock shelters; tombs; Buddhism and Jainism
pilgrimage related sites; find-spots of coin hoards or
statues or other hoards; shrines and temples.
Few key observations on status of arcaheological sites
indicates that: A Research Project for NITI Aayog | 39
Interpretation of Archaeological Sites in Turkey; Source - Source – https://www.aa.com.tr/en/culture/turkey-conservation-not-excavation-focus-in-gobeklite-
pe/1758455
Only 1472 sites are protected out of 4186.
2114 out of the total are Harappan Period sites.
Potential numbers of archaeological sites across
India is estimated to be 40000 plus. Unprotected
sites are getting erased and built over at a fast pace.
India needs to develop infrastructure and open these
sites for interpretation and tourism.
Even among the 1472 protected archaeological
sites, there is not a single one covering all aspects of
conservation, sheltered protection and visitor inter-
pretation in totality.
“
” 40 |Challenges faced in Heritage Management in India and Policy Imperatives
Distribution of Historic Cities across India as per mapping of 100,000 struc-
tures; Source - DRONAH, 2021
2. Historic Cities including
Residential Structures (Havelis,
Houses and Mansions)

India has a vast repository of Urban Heritage in its liv-
ing historic cities recently recognized by UNESCO in
the inscription of Ahmedabad and Jaipur city. 12 of the
historic cities were recognised under HRIDAY program
of MoHUA in 2015 and even currently a large num-
ber of urban conservation and urban renewal works are
being undertaken in the historic cores under the Smart
Cities Programme. Ahmedabad has about 2200 listed
structures, Jaipur around 1588, Mumbai 1661, Delhi
1450 plus and Chandigarh 87 are estimated in number.
On an average each historic city centre will have at least
500 heritage structures amounting to a total of approx-
imately 60 historic cities across India with 30000 plus
urban built heritage structures.
Residential built heritage of India exists in the
form of structures of commoner’s as well as lavish
noble houses in historic cities or larger mansions on
the outskirts including Havelis, Wadas, Chettinad
Houses, British period Bungalows and other spread
across India. Another category exists in the form
of vernacular architecture as part of rural land-
scapes and tribal settlements.
“
”
Aerial View of Jaipur City; Source - DRONAH A Research Project for NITI Aayog | 41
Kailash Mansarovar Yatra Route; Source - mea.gov.in
3. Cultural Landscapes (including
Sacred Groves and Historic
Gardens) and Heritage Routes
This report covers mapping of 487 cultural landscapes
in India including 133 listed sacred groves under the
state of Meghalaya. Published sources on sacred groves
indicate a figure of total 13720 numbers across India
with about 500 in Tamil Nadu (Krishna, Amirthalin-
gam, & CPR Environmental Education Centre Chen-
nai, 2014).
Additonally, the mapping of 322 historic gardens shows
that only 41 among these are protected.
India’s unique geographical location between the Hima-
layas and the Indian Ocean and the diversity of indig-
enous people has resulted in a vast variety of cultural
landscapes that is yet unrecognised heritage at the na-
tional level. Given the range and diversity of culture-na-
ture adaptations across India, the primary challenge is
to classify the various kinds of cultural landscape and
identify their values. A range of typologies identified by
scholars for this region include associative, archaeologi-
cal, relict, institutional, industrial, religious and bio-cul-
tural landscapes. (Context, Aryan Publishers, 2018)
The State of Meghalaya has contributed its list of Sa-
cred Groves with a plea to recognise these as cultural
heritages.
Pilgrim routes in India incorporate a larger
cultural narrative linking several sites. These need
to be recognised and mapped.
Some significant ones include Pilgrim trails: Manas,
Amarnath, Varanasi Panchkroshi, Char Dham, Uttara-
khand Raj Jat yatra, Sabarimala, even Kavad Yatra for
Ganga Jal, Machail in Jammu along with Kailash Man-
sarovar and Braj Circuit. Other routes such as Uttarap-
atha on Tentative List and maritime trade routes along
with Nankana saheb to Pakistan even extend to trans-
national connections.
“
” 42 |Challenges faced in Heritage Management in India and Policy Imperatives
Distribution of Religious Sites across India as per mapping of 100,000 structures; Mapped by DRONAH, 2021
3000 A Research Project for NITI Aayog | 43
Nagaswamy Temple, Kumbakonam, Tamil Nadu; Source - DRONAH
Tamil Nadu, Karanataka, Andhra and Telangana fol-
lowed by Maharasthra, Madhya Pradesh and Uttar
Pradesh have the largest quantum of historic temples
in the country.Though present in abundance and prov-
en to be one of the most sustainable heritage typology
where the cultural significance balances well with the
economic value; its potential impact is unrealized in the
Heritage Conservation and Management Sector.
4. Religious Structures
Religious Heritage Typologies (Temples,
Mosques, Monasteries and Churches) form the
largest component of the built heritage of India.
While most of these are under independent trusts, a
large quantum is managed by the government depart-
ments in various states as per existing acts. Rajasthan,
“
” 44 |Challenges faced in Heritage Management in India and Policy Imperatives
Distribution of Water Systems and Waterbodies across India as per mapping of
100,000 structures; Source - DRONAH, 2021
Distribution of Forts and Palaces and Military Architecture across India as per
mapping of 100,000 structures; Source - DRONAH, 2021
5. Water Systems and Water Bodies
India’s historic waterbodies and traditional water man-
agement systems are well recorded though currently a
number of these historic systems are in disuse.
Among the 3670 mapped water structures as
part of this report, only 263 are protected.
Considering the current water needs in the country, it
is important to document and conserve this tangible
heritage with an aim to supplement the water demand
as well as to replenish the ground water level and con-
serve this unique typology. The largest concentration
of historic water structures is evident in the central
and western regions of India which fall in the arid and
semi-arid zones resulting in historic water-architecture
of the stepwells.
6. Forts and Palaces and Military
Architecture (Battlefields, bar -
racks, Cantonments, Gates, Walls)
Forts, Fortifications, and palaces is one of the most
abundant typologies in India’s Built Heritage following
the religious structures and archaeological sites. The
fortifications range from various historic periods con-
“
” A Research Project for NITI Aayog | 45
Chand Baori, Abhaneri, Rajasthan ; Source -Jahnwij Sharma
Kumbhalgarh Fort, Rajasthan; Source - DRONAH 46 |Challenges faced in Heritage Management in India and Policy Imperatives
structed by different dynasties through centuries. Most
of these show the spread of Sultanate and Mughal Im-
perial rule, Maratha kingdom along with regional dynas-
ties Rajput, Sikhs, Kakatiyas, Bahmani and Qutb Shahis
or even the Ahom dynasty in Assam region. The coast-
al region of India also has some Portuguese and British
period fortifications.
Only 1064 of forts & fortifications are pro-
tected of 6520 mapped in this report. Many un-
protected private ones are successfully running as
Heritage Hotels & Royal Museums. Potential for
other military architecture such as battlefields re-
mains untapped.
7. Public Buildings and Public
Spaces (Monuments,
Administrative structures, Serai,
Rest houses, Baradari, Kosminar,
Chaupars, Chowks, Bazaars)
Public heritage structures serve as significant landmarks
in the historic cites or historic routes today. Most of
this typology can continue to be used as public build-
ings with similar historic use or be developed for heri-
tage tourism with amenities.
Distribution of Public Buildings across India as per mapping of 100,000 struc-
tures; Source - DRONAH, 2021
Baradari, Fatehpur Sikri; Source - DRONAH
Only 353 of public buildings are protect-
ed of 5041 mapped. Public buildings need to be
Conserved and Reused as per Typology. Example
Rest houses, Museums, Cultural Centres, Offices,
Shopping Stores. 45 administrative structures are
protected of the 65 listed in this report. These have
potential for Reuse as Grand Office Spaces or as
Museums open to Public.
“
“
”
” A Research Project for NITI Aayog | 47
High Court, Chandigarh; Source - DRONAH 48 |Challenges faced in Heritage Management in India and Policy Imperatives
Cenotaphs of Orchha; Source - Samvida Rai A Research Project for NITI Aayog | 49
Distribution of Memorials, Tombs and Cenotaphs across India as per mapping
of 100,000 structures; Source - DRONAH, 2021
Distribution of Industrial Heritage Structures across India as per mapping of
100,000 structures; Source - DRONAH, 2021
8. Memorials, Tombs & Cenotaphs
This typology of built heritage has a strong potential to
be converted and reused as public parks or recreational
spaces such as Lodhi Gardens in Delhi.
Only 763 memorials out of 3507 mapped are
protected.
9. Industrial Heritage Structures
Recognition of industrial heritage is a recent phenom-
enon and, India houses some of the most significant
sites such as the 13th century Zinc and Silver mines in
Zawar, Rajasthan, Sites related to the Salt industry and
later period engineering marvels such as the Howrah
bridge and the Mountain Railways of India.
Only 39 of 465 mapped industrial heritage are
protected.Ministry of Railways has set a role model for
categorizing and preparing heritage codes for their in-
dustrial heritage.Potential for Reuse of Industrial Sites
such as Old Mills/ Factories into social housing needs
to be explored.
“ “
”
” 50 |Challenges faced in Heritage Management in India and Policy Imperatives
Gandhi Bhawan, Chandigarh; Source - DRONAH
10. Institutional Structures
(Universities, Colleges, Schools,
Libraries and Museums)
Most of the living institutional structures date from the
Early Modern, British period or post-independence.
Recent recognition by Ministry of Education for such
heritage institutes will help in conserving such historic
campuses across India. Currently only 30 among the
1105 institutions mapped are under protection. A Research Project for NITI Aayog | 51
State/UT
World
Heritage SitesSites on the
Tentative ListArchaeological
Survey of
IndiaState
Protected Sites
Listed Sites
Andaman &
Nicobar
Islands
216
Andhra
Pradesh
1 135 277 371
Arunachal
Pradesh
3 3 8 44
Assam2 2 55 137 142
Bihar270 51 795
Chandigarh 160
Chhattisgarh46 58 293
Dadra &
Nagar Haveli
& Daman &
Diu
114
Delhi3 2 173 18 1384
Goa121 51 1978
Gujarat4 3 203 317 2127
Haryana91 36 3216
Himachal
Pradesh
2 1 40 5 419
Jammu &
Kashmir
4 56 55 1442
Jharkhand13 3 13
Karnataka2 5 506 801 2756
Kerala2 29 195 726
Ladakh15 2 564
Table - Statewise Analysis of Built Cultural Heritage 52 |Challenges faced in Heritage Management in India and Policy Imperatives
State/UT
World
Heritage SitesSites on the
Tentative ListArchaeological
Survey of
IndiaState
Protected Sites
Listed Sites
Lakshadweep
Madhya
Pradesh
3 4 291 527 2001
Maharashtra 5 2 286 244 2801
Manipur1 1 49 1
Meghalaya1 8 4 168
Mizoram1 81 96
Nagaland42
Odisha1 2 80 218 928
Puducherry7 21 50
Punjab2 33 87 792
Rajasthan4 1 163 391 43026
Sikkim13916
Tamil Nadu 2 3 412 89 36008
Telangana18 348 261
Tripura8228
Uttar Pradesh 3 2 743 145 3113
Uttarakhand 143 47 146
West Bengal 1 3 135 106 1416
TOTAL40 46 3693 4377 108823
Cover Image - Thiksey Monastery,
Ladakh; Source - Samvida Rai A Research Project for NITI Aayog | 53 54 |Challenges faced in Heritage Management in India and Policy Imperatives A Research Project for NITI Aayog | 55
3
The Heritage Custodians &
Stakeholders 56 |Challenges faced in Heritage Management in India and Policy Imperatives A Research Project for NITI Aayog | 57
This chapter broadly covers all ‘Heritage Managers’ or ‘Heritage Custodians’
for the Built Cultural Heritage of India including all concerned stakeholders
who own, protect, conserve and/or use the heritage structures and sites. While
ASI primarily protects 3693 nationally protected sites, several heritage sites are
owned or funded through other Ministries, State Governments and Local de-
partments.
This section covers most Public and key Private trusts which own or manage
substantial number of built heritage sites in India. Similarly, active heritage or-
ganizations, trusts and public bodies dealing with conservation and promotion
of heritage are also listed.
The intention of this section is to present the status of ownership and man-
agement of the range of built heritage structures in India. An analysis of this
database of stakeholders will help in understanding the strengths and gaps in
conserving our built heritage and to arrive at suitable recommendations for fill-
ing these gaps.
A. Public Sector
A.1 Central Bodies
Ministry of Culture – ASI and Other Departments, MoHUA - CPWD, Ministry
of Railways, Ministry of Shipping, Ministry of Communications, Ministry of
I&B, Ministry of Education, MoEFCC, Ministry of Youth Affairs and Sports,
Ministry of Tourism, Ministry of External Affairs, Ministry of Defence, Min-
istry of Mines - GSI, Ministry of Science and Technology - NIO, Ministry of
Minority Affairs – CWC and NCM have been covered in this section.
Separator Image: Hoysaleshwar Tem-
ple, Halebidu, Karnataka; Source - DRO-
NAH
Kandariya Mahadev Temple, Khajura-
ho; Source - Samvida Rai 58 |Challenges faced in Heritage Management in India and Policy Imperatives
1. Ministry of Culture
Sector: Public, Central Government No. of Heritage Structures under it:
Objective and Organisation Description: Subcategories:
The mission of the department is to preserve, promote
and disseminate all forms of art and culture. In order
to achieve this, the department undertakes the following
activities:
• Maintenance and conservation of heritage, historic
sites and ancient monuments
• Administration of libraries
• Promotion of literary, visual and performing arts
• Observation of centenaries and anniversaries of im-
portant national personalities and events
• Promotion of institutions and organizations of Bud-
dhist and Tibetan studies
• Promotion of institutional and individual non-official
initiatives in the fields of art and culture
• Entering into cultural agreements with foreign coun-
tries.
• The functional spectrum of the Department ranges
from creating cultural awareness from the grass root level
to the international cultural exchange level.
Category Number
ASI3693
Museums7
Libraries and Institutional
Buildings
14
Gandhi Sites39
Website: https://www.indiaculture.nic.in/
Funding and Sustenance:
The outlay for Annual Budget 2021-22 of Ministry of
Culture is Rs. 2687.99 Crore. This outlay includes pro-
visions for 2 attached offices, 6 Subordinate offices,
34 central Autonomous Bodies and schemes of the
Ministry during the Financial year 2021-22.
Conservation Acts/ Policies:
National Cultural Heritage Conservation Policy (Draft)
Conservation Works Done:Fund Utilisation:
Some of the conservation works undertaken by Ministry
in the recent years:
• Currency Building and Belvedere Estate, Gandhi Mis-
sion Sites through CPWD
• All works through ASI for centrally protected monu-
ments
Funds are distributed for these various sections for
Tangible Heritage under the Ministry
1. Archaeological Survey of India
2. National Museum
3. National Gallery of Modern Art
4. Indian Museum
5. Victoria Memorial Hall external A Research Project for NITI Aayog | 59
1. Ministry of Culture
Observations/ Analysis:6. Salarjung Museum
7. Allahabad Museum
8. National Council of Science Museums
9. National Museum Institute of History of Art,
Conservation and Museology
10. National Research Laboratory for Conservation
of Cultural Property
11. National Mission for Monuments and Antiquities
12. National Mission for Manuscripts
13. Gandhi Heritage Sites Mission
14. National Culture Fund
15. National Mission on Libraries
It is the nodal Ministry for Art and Culture with several
schemes for funding and covers several funding schemes
for this purpose. It also houses various supporting insti-
tutions as great resources on culture and built heritage
data: • National Archives of India
• Anthropological Survey of India
• Gandhi Smriti and Darshan Samiti
• Nehru Memorial Museum and Library
• Indira Gandhi Rashtriya Manav Sangrahalaya
• Asiatic Society
• Maulana Abul Kalam Azad Institute of Asian studies
• Central University of Higher Tibetan Studies
• Central Institute of Himalayan Cultural Studies
• National Library
• Raja Rammohun Roy Library Foundation
• Delhi Public Library
• Rampur Raza Library
• Central Reference Library
• Khuda Baksh Oriental Public Library
• Thanjavur Maharaja Serfoji Mahal Library
Best Practices:
Grants for both Public and Private sector for Built
Heritage, Museums, Libraries and other cultural in-
stitutions
(Contd.)
Belvedere House, National Library, Kolkata; Source - DRONAH 60 |Challenges faced in Heritage Management in India and Policy Imperatives
2. Archaeological Survey of India, Ministry of Culture
Sector: Public, Central Government No. of Heritage Structures under it: 3693
Objective and Organisation Description: Subcategories:
Established in 1861, it is the premier organization for the
archaeological researches and protection of the cultural
heritage of the nation. For the maintenance of ancient
monuments and archaeological sites and remains of na-
tional importance the entire country is divided into 24
Circles.
Its major activities inter-alia are conducting archaeolog-
ical explorations and excavations, maintenance, conser-
vation and preservation of protected monuments and
archaeological sites and remains of national importance,
chemical preservation of monuments and antiquarian re-
mains, Architectural survey of monuments, Epigraphical
and numismatic studies, setting up and re-organization
of Site Museums, training in Archaeology, bringing out
archaeological publications, Archaeological expeditions
outside India. Horticulture operation in and around an-
cient monuments and sites.
Category Number
World Heritage - Nodal Agency32 Cultural, 7
Natural and 1
Mixed
Adarsh Smarak (Phase 1) 25
Adarsh Smarak (Phase 2) 75
Centrally Protected 3693
For conducting specialised archaeological researches
there are also 6 Excavation Branches, 1 Prehistory
Branch, 1 Building Survey Project, 2 Temple Survey
Projects, 2 Epigraphy Branches, 1 Science Branch and
Underwater Archaeology Wing in the Archaeological
Survey of India.
Website: https://asi.nic.in/
Funding and Sustenance:
Rs. 1042.62 Crore has been allocated to the Archaeo-
logical Survey of India in 2020-21.
Conservation Acts/ Policies:Fund Utilisation:
Ancient Monuments and Archaeological Sites and Re-
mains Act, 1958
Antiquities and Art Treasure Act, 1972
National Conservation Policy 2014
Draft Exploration and Excavation Policy 2015
• Salaries, allowances and other office/admin-
istrative expenses
• Advertisements and publicity
• Scholarships and stipends
• Publication
Travel expenses
• Conservation of Ancient Monuments
• Financial assistance for monuments less than
100 years old (grant in aid)
• External aided programs
• Archaeological Exploration and Excavation
Conservation Works done:
Some of the conservation works undertaken by ASI in
the recent years:
• Shey Palace, Ladakh
• Residency, Lucknow A Research Project for NITI Aayog | 61
2. Archaeological Survey of India, Ministry of Culture
• Galteshwar Mahadev Temple, Vadodara
• Chatta Chowk, Red Fort
• Diwan-i-Am, Red Fort
• Qutb Minar, New Delhi
• Group of Monuments, Mahabalipuram
• Central Archaeological Museums
• National Mission on Monuments and Antiq-
uities
• Building projects
Observations /Analysis:Best Practices:
It is the premier organization of India for Archaeolo-
gy and Built Heritage Conservation. It is in the process
of restructuring as per recommendations of the NITI
Aayog Report 2020.
Overseas Projects in Cambodia, Vietnam and other
South East Asian countries Humayun’s Tomb Con-
servation in association with AKTC and other organ-
isations.
Diwan-i-Khas, Fatehpur Sikri; Source - DRONAH
(Contd.) 62 |Challenges faced in Heritage Management in India and Policy Imperatives
3. Ministry of Housing and Urban Affairs
Sector: Public; Central Government No. of Heritage Structures under it:
Objective and Organisation Description: Subcategories:
The Ministry of Housing and Urban Affairs is the apex
authority of Government of India at the national level to
formulate policies, sponsor and support programme, co-
ordinate the activities of various Central Ministries, State
Governments and other nodal authorities and monitor
the programmes concerning all the issues of housing and
urban affairs in the country.
The matters pertaining to urban development have been
assigned by the Constitution of India to the State Gov-
ernments. The Constitution (74th Amendment) Act has
further delegated many of these functions to the urban
local bodies. The constitutional and legal authority of the
Govt. of India is limited only to Delhi and other Union
Territories and to the subject which State Legislatures au-
thorise the Union Parliament to legislate.
Category Number
HRIDAY Cities12
Smart Cities100
Website: http://mohua.gov.in/
Funding and Sustenance:
For HRIDAY:
77 Projects amounting to Rs. 418.06 Crore for all the
12 cities. Instalments amounting to Rs. 402.44 Crore
were released to city mission directorates for execu-
tion of approved projects. 55 projects amounting to
Rs. 272.04 crore have been completed.
For Smart Cities:
As of 6th November 2019, 23 cities have tendered
out 60 heritage projects worth Rs. 551 crore, 20 cities
have work ordered 53 heritage projects worth Rs. 495
crore, 10 cities have completed 26 heritage projects
worth Rs. 130 crore, and 23 cities have 41 heritage
projects worth Rs. 888 crores under DPR stage.
Conservation Acts/ Policies/ Missions:
The National Heritage City Development and Augmen-
tation Yojana (HRIDAY) scheme - 21st January, 2015
National Smart Cities Mission – 27 August 2015
Conservation Works Done:Fund Utilisation:
• 39 Smart Cities have initiated 101 Heritage projects un-
der the Mission.
• Smart Cities Mission has developed framework docu-
ments (on Complete Streets)
• Works in the 12 HRIDAY cities namely Ajmer, Ama-
ravati, Amritsar, Badami, Dwarka, Gaya, Kanchipuram,
Mathura, Puri, Varanasi, Velankanni and Warangal.
Funds are distributed among these various schemes:
1. HRIDAY
2. Smart Cities Mission
3. AMRUT
Observations/ Analysis:
It is the nodal Ministry for Housing and Urban Af-
fairs with several funding schemes for this purpose.
Best Practices:
Surat Castle, Bhadrakali Riverfront and Ajmer under
HRIDAY A Research Project for NITI Aayog | 63
4. CPWD, Ministry of Housing and Urban Affairs
Sector: Public; Central Government No. of Heritage Structures under it: 50
Objective and Organisation Description: Subcategories:
The Central Public Works Department (CPWD) found-
ed in July 1854, is the principal agency of the Govern-
ment of India for creation and maintenance of all Cen-
tral Government assets excluding those belonging to
Railways, Defence, Communication, Atomic Energy,
Airports (National and International) and All India Ra-
dio. CPWD is playing a major role towards sustainable
development of human settlement. It has also developed
expertise in Rehabilitation of Structures and is imparting
its expertise to rehabilitate structures in distress. It has so
far provided consultancy services for many works in as
many as Ten countries outside India.
Region Number
New Delhi18
NCT of Delhi3
Shimla Central Division - 110
Kolkata11
Mumbai8
Website: https://cpwd.gov.in/
Funding and Sustenance:
CPWD receives budget from 2 different Demands for
Grants of the Ministry of UD&PA.
Demand No.82 UD - Construction and maintenance
of Government residential accommodation.
Demand No. 83 Public Works - Construction and
maintenance of all Government non-residential build-
ings, budget for purchase of materials for ‘Stock’ and
budget for Miscellaneous Public Works Advances.
Besides these, CPWD also undertakes execution of
works on Deposit basis and on CSS account basis.
Conservation Acts/ Policies:
Manuals have been published on
• Conservation and Audit of Heritage Buildings, 2019
• Conservation of Heritage Buildings – A Guide, 2013
Conservation Works Done:
In the last 5 years, CPWD has undertaken rigorous con-
servation works in coordination with ASI, INTACH and
engagement of conservation professionals. Over the past
several years, CPWD is maintaining the Heritage build-
ings like President Estate, Hyderabad House, Parliament
House, New Delhi, Victoria Memorial Kolkata, Mayo
College Ajmer, Gorton Castle Shimla (2014-15).
Heritage Impact Assessment report for re-development
of Bhavishya Nidhi Enclave, Malviya Nagar, Sept 2018
Fund Utilisation:
CPWD’s budget includes the budgets of various other
Ministries and the success of utilizing fully the avail-
able funds depends upon the close interaction that
takes place between the various Ministries, Ministry
of UD and CPWD
Observations/ Analysis:Best Practices:
CPWD has established a good methodology for under-
taking conservation works in association with central lev-
el organisations, institutes and professionals.
Preparation of Manuals, Conservation of Parliament
House, Delhi and Vice Regal Lodge, Shimla 64 |Challenges faced in Heritage Management in India and Policy Imperatives
5. Heritage Directorate; Ministry of Railways
Sector: Public; Central Government No. of Heritage Structures under it: 210
Objective and Organisation Description: Subcategories:
Ministry of Railways has a Heritage Directorate under
the Railway Board. There are Zonal Level Heritage Com-
mittees and Heritage Officers.
A slew of measures have been initiated recently to in-
stitutionalize rail heritage preservation. These include
strengthening rail museums, promoting rail heritage tour-
ism, more steam trains, compilation of heritage invento-
ry and publishing it on the website, collaboration with
M/s Google for digitizing and providing online access to
rail heritage inventory & visual tour of museums, MOU
with INTACH and Ahmedabad University for capacity
building of railway officers and introducing modules for
training courses etc.
Category Number
Buildings and Stations 109
Bridges and Tunnels 43
Heritage Lines13
Museums and Parks 45
Other than these, there are 45 Railway Museums,
Parks and Galleries and 13 Heritage lines along with
movable assets.
Mountain Railways of India (Nilgiris, Kalka Shimla
and Darjeeling Heritage Railways) and Chhatrapati
Shivaji Terminus, Mumbai are recognized as UNES-
CO World Heritage Site.
Funding and Sustenance:
Website: https://indianrailways.gov.in/railway-
board/
Through Central Government, IRFC, Railway Capital
Fund and cash flow.
Conservation Acts/ Policies:Fund Utilisation:
Indian Railways Heritage Charter, 2018 • Listing of artefacts, buildings, bridges, documents
etc.
• Documentation and preparation of conservation/
management plans.
• Creation of museums, galleries and heritage rooms.
• Commemorative programmes including special
steam loco runs.
• Restoration of locomotives, buildings, archives, ar-
tifacts etc.
• Appointment of consultants.
• Training programmes.
• Handouts for awareness/ sensitization/ presenta-
tion/ dissemination.
Conservation Works Done:
Conservation Management Plans of World Heritage
Sites, Conservation of Railways stock and tracks. Listing
and Training program by INTACH.
Observations/ Analysis:
Conservation not mentioned in the budget highlights
Best Practices:
Formation of Heritage Charter and Listing of Railway
Heritage Structures, Heritage Code and Manuals. A Research Project for NITI Aayog | 65
Chhatrapati Shivaji Terminus, Mumbai; Source - DRONAH 66 |Challenges faced in Heritage Management in India and Policy Imperatives
Mahabalipuram Lighthouse, Mahabalipuram, Tamil Nadu; Source - Samvida Rai A Research Project for NITI Aayog | 67
6. Directorate General of Lighthouses and Lightships; Ministry of Shipping
Sector: Public; Central Government No. of Heritage Structures under it: 99
Objective and Organisation Description: Subcategories: NA
The Directorate General of Lighthouses and Lightships
is a subordinate office under the Ministry of Ports, Ship-
ping and Waterways. It provides General Aids to Ma-
rine Navigation along the Indian coast. The upkeep and
maintenance of general aids to marine navigation is the
responsibility of the Directorate as per the LH Act 1927.
The upkeep and maintenance of local aids is the respon-
sibility of various Maritime State Government organiza-
tions like Ports, State Maritime Boards etc. However, the
directorates are extending all technical support for main-
tenance of the local lights.
Category Number
NANA
Website: http://www.dgll.nic.in/
Funding and Sustenance:
For providing these aids, the Directorate collects light
dues once in 30 days, from all foreign going vessels
calling at/departing from Indian ports at the rate of
Rs. 92/- per TEU from Container Vessels and Rs.8/-
per ton on NT basis from the vessels other than Con-
tainer vessels.
Conservation Acts/ Policies:Fund Utilisation:
Lighthouse Act 1927
Marine Aids to Navigation Bill 2021
• Maintenance and protection of the structures
• Development of lighthouses for tourism
Conservation Works Done:Observations/ Analysis:
DGLL has taken an endeavor for the development of
tourism at lighthouses across coast of India in line with
international trend for becoming potential tourist attrac-
tions as they provide panoramic views of scenic loca-
tions which would revitalize the existing lighthouses.
Currently, the department does not recognize these
historic structures as heritage though their tourism
potential is accepted. Protection and conservation
mechanism for the historic lighthouses needs to be
put into place.
Best Practices:
The Marine Aids to Navigation Bill 2021 aims to convert
heritage lighthouses in the country into tourism centres.
13 lighthouses have been identified. 68 |Challenges faced in Heritage Management in India and Policy Imperatives
7. Ministry of Communications – India Post
Sector: Public; Central Government No. of Heritage Structures under it: 36
Objective and Organisation Description: Subcategories:
For more than 150 years, the Department of Posts (DoP)
has been the backbone of the country’s communication
and has played a crucial role in the country’s social econo-
-mic development. It touches the lives of Indian citizens
in many ways: delivering mails, accepting deposits under
Small Savings Schemes, providing life insurance cover
under Postal Life Insurance (PLI) and Rural Postal Life
Insurance (RPLI) and providing retail services like bill
collection, sale of forms, etc. With 1, 55,531 Post Offic-
es, the DoP has the most widely distributed postal net-
work in the world.
CategoryNumber
Heritage GPOs and Post Offices36
Website: https://www.indiapost.gov.in/
Funding and Sustenance:
2.61 crores were spent during FY 2018-19 by the Es-
tates Division for the renovation of Heritage Build-
ings out of a total expenditure of 71.48 crores.
10.24 crores for installation of solar power plant
2.15 crores for construction of rainwater harvesting
structures
Conservation Acts/ Policies:Fund Utilisation:
NA• Renovation and maintenance of Heritage Buildings
Conservation Works Done:Observations/ Analysis:
Nagpur, Hyderabad and Mumbai GPO were awarded
best performing buildings in lines of Energy Conserva-
tion under the category of green buildings by MNRE.
Kolkata GPO was recognized by INTACH for the cons
-ervation of Heritage Building and Conservation of 11
Heritage Buildings under Post Offices was completed in
2019-20
21000 Post Offices were built before Independence
and need to be assessed for heritage value
Best Practices:
Printing of Stamps of Heritage Postal Buildings be-
sides several other stamps of Built Heritage of India
including World Heritage Sites Stamp Series.
Conservation of Kolkata GPO A Research Project for NITI Aayog | 69
8. Ministry of Information & Broadcasting
Sector: Public; Central Government No. of Heritage Structures under it: Post-inde-
pendence buildings such as the All-India Radio
and Prasar Bharti
Objective and Organisation Description:
Create an enabling environment for sustained growth
of media and entertainment sector, facilitate value based
wholesome entertainment and effectively disseminate
information on government policies, programmes and
achievements.
Subcategories: NA
Category Number
To be determined after assessment of all buildings
under the Ministry
Conservation Acts/ Policies:Funding and Sustenance:
NAIn 2020-21, the Department has been allocated Rs
66,432 croreWebsite: https://mib.gov.in/
Conservation Works Done:Fund Utilisation:
Prasar Bharti intended to do All India Radio building.
DPR has been made but conservation work yet to be
taken up. They have a complete engineering division.
Observations/ Analysis:Best Practices:
Needs to assess the heritage value of buildings under its
jurisdiction
All India Radio - Prasar Bharti Building; Source - preasarbharati.gov.in 70 |Challenges faced in Heritage Management in India and Policy Imperatives
9. Ministry of Education
Sector: Public; Central Government No. of Heritage Structures under it: 19 colleges
granted heritage status under UGC till 2020
Objective and Organisation Description: Subcategories:
The main objectives of the Ministry would be:
• Formulating the National Policy on Education and to
ensure that it is implemented in letter and spirit
• Planned development, including expanding access
and improving quality of the educational institutions
throughout the country, including in the regions where
people do not have easy access to education.
• Paying special attention to disadvantaged groups like
the poor, females and the minorities
• Provide financial help in the form of scholarships, loan
subsidy, etc to deserving students from deprived sections
of the society.
• Encouraging international cooperation in the field of
education, including working closely with the UNESCO
and foreign governments as well as Universities, to en-
hance the educational opportunities in the country.
Heritage Institutions
1. St. Xavier’s College, Mumbai
2. CMS College, Kottayam
3. St. Joseph College, Trichy
4. Khalsa College, Amritsar
5. St. Bede’s College, Shimla
6. Christ Church College, Kanpur
7. Old Agra College, Agra
8. Meerut College, Meerut
9. Langat Singh College, Muzaffarpur, Bihar
10. Govt.Brennan College, Kerala
11. University College, Mangalore
12. Cotton College, Guwahati
13. Midnapore College, West Bengal
14. Govt. Medical Science, Jabalpur
15. Deccan Education Society’s Fergusson College,
Pune
16. Hislop College, Nagpur
17. Govt. Gandhi Memorial Science College, Jammu
18. Kanya Mahavidyalya, Jalandhar
19. St. Xavier’s College in Kolkata
Website: https://www.ugc.ac.in/pdfnews/9126285_
Heritage_Guidelines_Colleges2018.pdf A Research Project for NITI Aayog | 71
9. Ministry of Education
Conservation Acts/ Policies:Funding and Sustenance:
National Education Policy 2020: High-quality pro-
grammes and degrees in Translation and Interpretation,
Art and Museum Administration, Archaeology, Artefact
Conservation, Graphic Design, and Web Design within
the higher education system will also be created. In or-
der to preserve and promote its art and culture, develop
high-quality materials in various Indian languages, con-
serve artefacts, develop highly qualified individuals to cu-
rate and run museums and heritage or tourist sites, there-
by also vastly strengthening the tourism industry.
The Ministry of Human Resource Development con-
sists of two departments: (i) school education and lit-
eracy, and (ii) higher education. In 2020-21, the Min-
istry has been allocated Rs 99,312 crore to cover both
departments and their programmes.
Conservation Works Done:Fund Utilisation:
Conservation works are carried out by the 19 heritage
institutions as per grant of the ministry.
The grant for heritage institutions differs from col-
lege to college, with the maximum financial aid be-
ing Rs. 4.35 crore which has been given to Cotton
College of Guwahati. Langat Singh College has re-
ceived Rs. 15 lakh for upgradation to a digital library.
Meerut College is receiving 1.35 crores which is used
in their art gallery and geological museum. St. Xavier’s
College in Mumbai is a recipient of the sum of 1.53
crores. The funds are used for conservation work and
to run diploma and certificate courses in ‘Maintaining
Heritage of India‘.
Observations/ Analysis:
The National Education Policy seems to have promising
proposals for incorporating heritage related studies in the
curriculum which will encourage more students to get
involved in the field of built heritage.
Best Practices:
Special Scheme for Heritage Institutions of India
Inscribing 5 Indian cities as UNESCO Creative Cities
from 2015-2020
Different schemes like Rashtriya Madhyamik Shiksha
Abhiyan have been introduced which have programs for
heritage and culture education
Culture and Heritage Education under RMSA where cul-
ture and heritage mapping is part of the school curricu-
lum for children.
Separate fund utilization for Institutions is available
for the implementation of NEP policy besides the
allocated annual budget funds for institutions under
the ministry.
(Contd.) 72 |Challenges faced in Heritage Management in India and Policy Imperatives
10. Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change
Sector: Public; Central Government No. of Heritage Structures under it: 2306
Objective and Organisation Description: Subcategories:
The Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate
Change (MoEFCC) is the nodal agency in the admin-
istrative structure of the Central Government for the
planning, promotion, co-ordination and overseeing the
implementation of India’s environmental and forestry
policies and programmes.
The broad objectives are conservation and survey of
flora, fauna, forests and wildlife; prevention and control
of pollution; afforestation and regeneration of degraded
areas; protection of the environment and ensuring the
welfare of animals.
Category Number
World Heritage6
World Heritage-Mixed 1
National Parks101
Sanctuaries553
Conservation Reserves 86
Community Reserves 163
Protected Areas 903
National Botanical Gardens15
Website: https://moef.gov.in/en/ Biosphere Reserves 13
Conservation Acts/ Policies:Zoological Parks 465
The National Conservation Strategy and Policy State-
ment on Environment and Development, 1992
National Forest Policy, 1988
National Environment Policy, 2006
Forest (Conservation) Act, 1980, amended 1988
The Indian Forest Act, 1927
Cultural Sites – Archaeological remains, cultural land-
scapes, forest resthouses and others in National Parks
and Sanctuaries
To be tabulated
Funding and Sustenance:
The budget for MoEFCC is Rs 3,100 crore for 2020-
21 divided among following sections:
1. Environmental Knowledge and Capacity Building
2. Environment Protection, Management and Sus-
tainable Development
3. National Coastal Management Programme
4. Decision Support System for Environmental
Awareness, Policy, Planning and Outcome Evaluation
5. Control of Pollution
6. National Mission for a Green India
Conservation Works Done:
Natural Heritage Conservation is part of the Ministry’s
mandate but it has no record of cultural heritage con-
servation in the cultural heritage sites within the Parks,
Sanctuaries and other areas under them. A Research Project for NITI Aayog | 73
10. Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change
Observations/ Analysis:7. Integrated Development of Wildlife Habitats
8. Conservation of Natural Resources and Ecosys-
tems
There is no mention of built heritage and archaeologi-
cal structures under the ministry or in the national parks
which need to be assessed for their heritage value. The
amount sanctioned for the conservation of natural re-
sources (46.19 cr) is much less than the estimated budget
of 86 crores. Besides some of its historic Forest Research
Institutes are houses in significant historic structures.
Fund Utilisation:
• Survey and utilization
• Biodiversity conservation
• Conservation and management of mangroves and
coral reefs
• Forest conservation
• Wildlife conservation
• Environment impact assessment
• Research
Best Practices:
Establishment of UNESCO Category 2 Centre at WII,
Dehradun for Capacity Building in Natural World Heri-
tage for Asia Pacific Region
Forest Research Institute, Dehradun; Source - DRONAH
(Contd.) 74 |Challenges faced in Heritage Management in India and Policy Imperatives
11. Ministry of Youth Affairs and Sports
Sector: Public; Central Government No. of Heritage Structures under it:
Objective and Organisation Description: Subcategories:
The Ministry was set up as the Department of Sports at
the time of organisation of 1982 Asian Games New Del-
hi. Its name was changed to the Department of Youth
Affairs & Sports during celebration of the Internation-
al Youth Year, 1985. It became a separate Ministry on
27 May 2000. Subsequently, in 2008, the Ministry has
been bifurcated into Department of Youth Affairs and
Department of Sports under two separate Secretaries.
Unlike the sports department, many of the functions of
the department are related to other ministries, like Min-
istry of Education, Employment & Training, Health and
Family Welfare thus it functions largely as a facilitator for
youth building.
Category Number
Stadiums
National Institute of Sports1
Other Historic Buildings
Website: https://yas.nic.in/
Funding and Sustenance:
The government has allocated Rs 2826.92 crore as
sports budget for the next financial year 2020-21
Fund Utilisation:
On Renovation and upgradation of sports infrastruc-
ture
Renovation and Development of Bakshi stadium Sri-
nagar – 44 cr
Renovation and Development of Maulana Azad Sta-
dium, Jammu – 40 cr
Conservation and Reuse of National Institute of
Sports, Patiala – 14 cr*
Conservation Acts/ Policies:
NA
Conservation Works Done:
Ongoing works at Netaji Subhas National Institute of
Sports, Patiala through the Ministry
Conservation Management Plan of the Sardar Patel
Stadium, Ahmedabad funded by the Getty Foundation
through World Monuments Fund
Observations/ Analysis:
The Ministry failed to effectively monitor the release
of the grants related to Commonwealth Games-2010.
As a result, funds amounting Rs. 191.86 crore were
parked with SAI for periods ranging from 17 to 26
months. This contravened the provisions of the sanc-
tions governing the utilization of the grants. Besides,
the Ministry failed to take into account the interest
earned on the unspent grants amounting Rs. 22.12
crore before releasing subsequent grants to SAI.
Best Practices:
Conservation works at NIS, Patiala A Research Project for NITI Aayog | 75
12. Ministry of Tourism
Sector: Public; Central Government No. of Heritage Structures under it: NA
Objective and Organisation Description: Subcategories:
The Ministry of Tourism, is the nodal agency for the for-
mulation of national policies and programs and for the
co-ordination of activities of various Central Govern-
ment Agencies, State Governments/UTs and the Private
Sector for the development and promotion of tourism
in the country.
Category Number
Website: https://tourism.gov.in/
Funding and Sustenance:
Rs 2026.77 crore this year 2020-21
Conservation Acts/ Policies/ Schemes: Fund Utilisation:
• Adopt a Heritage with Ministry of Culture
• Pilgrimage Rejuvenation and Spiritual Augmentation
Drive (PRASAD)
• Swadesh Darshan Scheme for development of Theme
based tourist circuits
• Hunar se Rozgar tak
Funds are utilized for Tourism Infrastructure, Main-
tenance, protection of tourist sites, to Promote cul-
tural and heritage value and for Classification of
Heritage Hotels
• 675.89 cr were released for SWADESH Darshan
scheme for the development of Tourist and Heritage
circuits in 2019
• 134.59 cr were released under PRASHAD Scheme
in 2019
• 46.83 cr were released under Central Agencies
Schemes in 2019.
Conservation Works Done:
• Under Adopt a Heritage, 26 Memorandum of Under-
standing (MoUs) have been awarded to 12 Monument
Mitras for twenty-four (24) sites and two (2) Technologi-
cal interventions across India.
• Development and renovation of selected facilities of
National Museum
• Illumination of National Gallery of Modern Art
Observations/ Analysis:Best Practices:
It is the key Ministry for supporting Built Heritage In-
frastructure and promoting Tourism on sites as one of
the primary sources for sustaining India’s Built Heritage.
Funding of Buddhist Circuit across India, Swadesh
Darshan and PRASAD 76 |Challenges faced in Heritage Management in India and Policy Imperatives
13. Ministry of External Affairs
Sector: Public; Central Government No. of Heritage Structures under it: NA
Objective and Organisation Description: Subcategories: NA
In an effort to broaden the development cooperation to
include culture and heritage conservation projects, the
Ministry set up a dedicated division within the Develop-
ment Partnership Administration in January 2020. This
Division would undertake development partnerships
abroad for culture and heritage conservation projects;
collaborate with international and national institutions
for the purpose of museology, temple restoration, man-
uscript preservation and intangible cultural heritage pres-
ervation; and develop and disseminate a repository of
information in this area.
Category Number
Website: https://mea.gov.in/
Funding and Sustenance:
India has extensive development partnership with
Bhutan, based on Bhutan’s priorities. For the current
12th Five Year Plan (2018-23), GOI has committed
economic assistance of Rs 4500 crores, apart from
transitional Trade Support Facility of Rs. 400 crores.
As per Annual Report of 2019-20, the MEA utilized
99% of the allocated amount.
Conservation Acts/ Policies:
Project Mausam
Conservation Works Done:Fund Utilisation:
The new division of the Ministry of External Affairs
(MEA) -- the Development Partnership Administration
(DPA IV) is the nodal point for heritage restoration proj-
ects undertaken by the Indian Government across the
globe. It plays an important role in the restoration of cul-
tural heritage in several countries across the region from
Sri Lanka to Myanmar to Vietnam to Bhutan.
• Under an MoU signed with Lao Ministry of Informa-
tion and Culture in 2007, a Team from ASI is assisting
in the restoration of UNESCO World Heritage Site at
Vat Phou, an ancient Khmer Shiva Temple in two phases
(2009-17) and (2018-28). Phase-I of the project was
completed in 2017. Phase-II has commenced in 2018.
• Indian National Trust for Art and Cultural Heritage
(INTACH) was appointed in Nepal for reconstruction
• Infrastructure Development
• Development partnerships for conservation of her-
itage and archaeological sites
• Capacity building A Research Project for NITI Aayog | 77
13. Ministry of External Affairs
work in the cultural heritage sector in December 2019.
• ASI’s ongoing 5-year project of conservation and res-
toration of the UNESCO World Heritage Site at My Son
in central Vietnam.
Observations/ Analysis:Best Practices:
Project Mausam must be revived and themes like the
transformation of Coastal Architecture, maritime muse-
ums, underwater cultural heritage to be revived.
Conservation of Monuments in Vietnam and Cam-
bodia
Sites identified under Project Mausam; Source - IGNCA, Ministry of Culture 78 |Challenges faced in Heritage Management in India and Policy Imperatives
14. Directorate General Defence Estates; Ministry of Defence
Sector: Public; Central Government No. of Heritage Structures under it: 62 cantts
Objective and Organisation Description: Subcategories: NA
Directorate General, Defence Estates (DGDE) is the
Headquarters of the Indian Defence Estates Service.
DGDE provides advisory inputs on all Cantonments
and Land matters to the Ministry of Defence and Ser-
vice Headquarters ie Army, Navy, Air Force and other
organizations under Ministry of Defence. Acquisition
of lands, Resettlement and Rehabilitation of displaced
persons, Hiring and requisitioning of lands and build-
ings, are some of the responsibilities of DGDE.
There are 62 Cantonment Boards. These are local bod-
ies responsible for providing civic administration and im-
plementing the Central Govt schemes of social welfare,
public health, hygiene, safety, water supply, sanitation,
urban renewal and education.
Category Number
Cantonments62
Website: https://www.dgde.gov.in/
Funding and Sustenance:
The Central Government provides financial assis-
tance to Cantonment Boards in the form of ordinary
Grant-in-Aid to balance their budgets. During 2018-
19, 52 Cantonment Boards out of 62 received Grant-
in-Aid amounting Rs. 289.99 crores from the Central
Government. Further, grants for creation of capital
assets to the tune of Rs. 31.88 crore were given to 06
Cantonment Boards.
Conservation Acts/ Policies:Fund Utilisation:
Cantonment Act, 2006Various infrastructural projects like Sewage Treat-
ment Plants, Drinking Water, Project, Working Wom-
en Hostel and Extension of Schools Buildings etc.
Conservation Works Done:
Observations/ Analysis:Best Practices:
Even though conservation and maintenance of heri-
tage structures in the cantonments is mentioned in the
Cantonment Act, conservation does not come up in the
Annual Administration Report of Cantonment Boards
2018-19.
Publications done by DGDE on Defence Canton-
ments in India and the Indian Navy on the Maritime
Heritage of India A Research Project for NITI Aayog | 79
Cantonments in India
3
Cantonments in India; Source - DGDE 80 |Challenges faced in Heritage Management in India and Policy Imperatives
15. Ministry of Mines; Geological Survey of India
Sector: Public; Central Government No. of Heritage Structures under it: 36
Objective and Organisation Description: Subcategories:
The Geological Survey of India (GSI) was set up in 1851
primarily to find coal deposits for the Railways. The main
functions of GSI relate to creation and updation of na-
tional geoscientific information and mineral resource as-
sessment. These objectives are achieved through ground
surveys, air-borne and marine surveys, mineral prospect-
ing and investigations, multi-disciplinary geoscientific,
geo-technical, geo-environmental and natural hazards
studies, glaciology, seismotectonic study, and carrying
out fundamental research.
Category Number
Fossil Parks4
Rock Monuments8
Geological Marvels 4
Other Monuments 6
Others14
Website: https://www.gsi.gov.in/
Funding and Sustenance:
Budget allocation in 2019-20:
• Survey and Mapping – 149cr
• Mineral Exploration – 43cr
• Information Dissemination – 77.26cr
• Research & Development – 17.8cr
• Specialized Investigations – 2.40cr
• Training – 3.30cr
• Tribal Area Sub Plan -22cr
• Scheduled Caste Sub Plan – 42.20cr
• Modernisation and Replacement – 108.30cr
• Administrative Support Activities – 69cr
• Minor Works – 40.40cr
Conservation Acts/ Policies:
No Acts. Several manuals and guidelines are in place.
Conservation Works Done:
Listing of Geo Heritage Sites in India.
Observations/ Analysis:Fund Utilisation:
Percentage of utilization of budget by Regions/ Divi-
sions is very low especially under Capital Head. Overall
expenditure of GSI in 2019-20 was 41.77% of the total
budget.
• Baseline Geoscience and data collection
• Natural resource assessment
• Geoinformatics
• Multidisciplinary geosciences
• Training and capacity building
• Publications
• Geo Tourism
Best Practices:
Initiative of promoting Geo Tourism Circuit in India A Research Project for NITI Aayog | 81
Geological Survey of India Geotourism Locations; Source - bhukosh.gsi.gov.in 82 |Challenges faced in Heritage Management in India and Policy Imperatives
16. Ministry of Science and Technology CSIR-NIO
Sector: Public; Central Government No. of Heritage Structures under it: 10
Objective and Organisation Description: Subcategories:
The Office of the Principal Scientific Adviser to the
Government of India (PSA’s Office) was set-up in No-
vember, 1999 by the Cabinet Secretariat. The PSA’s of-
fice evolves polices, strategies and missions to support
innovations and systems for multiple applications and
generates science and technology tasks in critical infra-
structure, economic and social sectors in partnership
with Government departments, institutions and industry.
CSIR-NIO was established on 1 January 1966 following
the International Indian Ocean Expedition (IIOE) in the
1960s. The institute has since grown into a multi-disci-
plinary oceanographic research institute of international
repute. The principal focus of research has been on ob-
serving and understanding special oceanographic charac-
teristics of the Indian Ocean.
In 2006, the Ministry of Earth Sciences was born out
of the Department of Ocean Development which was
earlier under DST Ministry and all earth science activities
were brought under this.
Category Number
Underwater Archaeology 10
Website: https://www.nio.org/ https://www.
nio.org/
Funding and Sustenance:
IN 2017-18, CSIR-NIO received CSIR grants of Rs.
9628.464 Lakhs for our institutional R&D projects.
External Cash Flow from other govt. departments
and ministries for conducting their programmes was
Rs. 1557.330 Lakhs while we charge 2034.467 Lakhs
from Industries towards sponsored projects and con-
sultancy.
Conservation Acts/ Policies:Fund Utilisation:
• Industrial Consultancy
• Underwater Surveys
• Numerical modelling
• Bathymetry, seabed Engineering, CRZ demarcation
• Evaluation of design parameters for coastal & offs
• Environmental Impact Assessment and environ-
mental
• Oil spill risk analysis and preparation of conting
Conservation Works Done:
Marine Archaeology group has undertaken three import-
ant sites for coastal and underwater explorations. These
include coastal explorations of the eastern margin of Lit-
tle Rann of Kachchh, Gujarat, Gopakapattana in Goa
and shipwreck explorations near Konark on the Orissa
coast. A comprehensive research on Mahabalipuram on
the Tamil coast has also been carried out. A Research Project for NITI Aayog | 83
16. Ministry of Science and Technology CSIR-NIO
Observations/ Analysis:Best Practices:
The major wings/ departments working in the field of
conservation and Research are Council of Scientific
and Industrial Research (CSIR) - National Institute of
Oceanography (NIO)
Mapping and research on Underwater Archaeological
Sites
Underwater fallen structure off Dwarka; Source - csir.res.in/unravelling-mysteries-underwater-cultural-heritage 84 |Challenges faced in Heritage Management in India and Policy Imperatives
17. Ministry of Minority Affairs Waqf Boards - Central Waqf Council and National Commission of
Minorities
Sector: Public; Central Government No. of Heritage Structures under it: Total 6,00,000
Objective and Organisation Description: Subcategories: CWC
Central Waqf Council is a statutory body under the ad-
ministrative control of the Ministry of Minority Affairs
was set up in 1964 as per the provision given in the Waqf
Act, 1954 as Advisory Body to the Central Government
on matters concerning the working of the Waqf Boards
and the due administration of Auqaf. The main objec-
tive of the Central Waqf Council is to advise the Gov-
ernment of India on matters concerning the working of
the Waqf Boards and the due administration of Auqaf in
the country. Besides that the important issues affecting
the community especially those pertaining to affairs like
administration of Mosques, Dargahs and proper man-
agement of properties are also considered by the Coun-
cil/its Committees.
The Union Government set up the National Commis-
sion for Minorities (NCM) under the National Com-
mission for Minorities Act, 1992. Initially five religious’
communities, viz., Muslims, Christians, Sikhs, Buddhists
and Zoroastrians (Parsis) were notified as minority com-
munities by the Union Government. Further vide notifi-
cation dated 27th January 2014, Jains were also notified
as another minority community.
Category Number
Masjid
Makbara
Imambara
Karbala
Orphanage
Dargah
Graveyard
No. of Heritage Structures under NCM: 2,00,000*
Churches
Gurdwaras
Monasteries
Parsi Houses of Worship
Jain Temples
Website: http://centralwaqfcouncil.gov.in/
Funding and Sustenance:
The funding is by the Government of India for dif-
ferent schemes. Not much is mentioned for the re-
pair, maintenance and conservation works.
Conservation Acts/ Policies:Fund Utilisation:
• Waqf Act 1954
• The Place of Worship Act 1991
• The Waqf Act 1995, Amendment till 2013
• Hamari Dharohar- Scheme to preserve rich Heritage of
Minority communities of India under the overall concept
• Training
• Removal of encroachments and GIS mapping
• Survey
• Administration
• Educational Programmes A Research Project for NITI Aayog | 85
17. Ministry of Minority Affairs Waqf Boards - Central Waqf Council and National Commission of
Minorities
of Indian culture• Development of Urban Waqf Properties
• Computerization of Records
• Scholarships and fellowships
Conservation Works Done:
The Durgah Khwaja Saheb, Ajmer – Protection and pe-
riodic maintenance
Observations/ Analysis:Best Practices:
Nothing much is mentioned about the conservation and
maintenance of the structures under the Waqf Board.
More activities and conservation works can be taken up
under the Hamari Dharohar scheme which is focused on
intangible cultural heritage at the moment.
Conservation of Ajmer Dargah
(Contd)
18. Jain Temple Trusts
Sector: PrivateNo. of Heritage Structures under it: 4256
Objective and Organisation Description: Website: https://jainmandir.org/
Jainmandir.org is an the digital directory of all Jain
Temples in India and outside India in a systematic and
structured format so as to enable each and every Jain
Shravaka to have a information on all such sites. This
also helps in preserving the details of all Jain temples be-
longing to all i.e. Digamber/ Shwetamber/ Sthanak etc.
Funding and Sustenance:
Private donations
Conservation Acts/ Policies:Best Practices:
NAListing of temples with Images
Conservation Works Done:
NA 86 |Challenges faced in Heritage Management in India and Policy Imperatives
19. Shiromani Gurdwara Parbandhak Committee (SGPC)
Sector: PrivateNo. of Heritage Structures under it: 101
Objective and Organisation Description: Website: http://sgpc.net/
The committee was formed in 1920 and is directly elect-
ed by an electorate of the Sikh Nation, male and female
above 18 years of age who are registered as voters under
the provisions of Sikh Gurdwara Act 1925. This act en-
ables SGPC to control all the Historical Gurdwaras as
well as Gurdwaras under Section 87 of this act. Apart
from the management of Gurdwaras, it runs many pres-
tigious educational institutions including Medical col-
leges, Hospitals and many Charitable trusts.
Funding and Sustenance:
Funding is through private donations.
Conservation Acts/ Policies:Fund Utilisation:
Sikh Gurdwara Act 1925• Infrastructure Development
• Renovation of Gurudwaras
• Langars
• Scholarships
• Research and Publications
• Health Facilities
Conservation Works Done:
Renovation of Sri Guru Granth Sahib Ji Bhawan, Sri
AmritsarRenovation of Sri Guru Granth Sahib ji Bhawan
(for printing the Holy Saroops of Sahib Sri Guru Granth
Sahib Ji). Construction of Fire and Bullet proof glass
building to keep it more transparent for all the devotees.
Observations/ Analysis:Best Practices:
Follows good conservation practices Conservation of Golden Temple and other Gurd-
waras
20. Parsi
A listing of 157 Parsi sites - 8 Atash Behrams and 149
Daramehers has been done from http://www.ahura-
mazda.com/index.html. However, no particular Parsi
trust or committee could be traced or contacted which
work on the conservation and maintenacne of these
structures.
21. Church of the Diocese
10,701 structures have been identified under the Church
of the Diocese but no listing has been done for them. A Research Project for NITI Aayog | 87
Sri Harimandir Sahib, Amritsar; Source - DRONAH 88 |Challenges faced in Heritage Management in India and Policy Imperatives
1. Andhra Pradesh Department of Archaeology and Museums
Sector: Public; State Government No. of Heritage Structures under it: 277
Objective and Organisation Description: Subcategories:
After the formation of the State of A.P in 1956, the
former Hyderabad, Department of Archaeology was
merged and re-designated as the Department of Archae-
ology, which has spread its activities over entire Andhra
Pradesh and it became as Department of Archaeology &
Museums in the year 1960.
The main function of the Archaeology & Museums De-
partment is to protect and preserve the Archaeological
wealth and cultural heritage by the scientific and sys-
tematized methodology. After bifurcation of Andhra
Pradesh in June 2014 the residual department has 6 sub-
ordinate offices and 13 museums under its control.
Category Number
Archaeological Sites 33
Archaeological Sites - Caves5
Cultural Landscapes 2
Forts and Palaces 18
Institutional Structures 2
Memorial Structures 8
Public Structures 3
Religious Structures 200
Residential Structures 5
Water Structures and
Waterbodies
1
Website: https://aparchmuseums.nic.in/
Conservation Acts/ Policies:Funding and Sustenance:
Andhra Pradesh Ancient and Historical Monuments and
Archaeological Sites and Remains Act 1960
The Andhra Pradesh (R) sanctioned an amount of Rs.
54.28 Crores by the Ministry of Culture, Government
(2011-2015) as part of the scheme of “Heritage
Conservation of Protected Monuments / Sites and
Up-gradation of Museums and establishment of new
Museums” against Rs. 100.00 Crores, when it was
united Andhra Pradesh. They have subsequently re-
ceived more grants for Museum Upgradation from
MoC for Museums at Vijaywada and Elluru for Rs.
13 Crores.
Conservation Works Done:
• Total Temples Conservation works taken up: 133
• Total Forts Conservation works taken up: 3
• Total New Museums Construction & Upgradation of
Museum works taken up: 16
• Total Buddhist Sites Conservation works taken up: 6
• Establishment of New Shilparamam: 6
A.2 State Bodies
State Archaeology Departments, State Forest Depart-
ments, Religious Heritage related bodies and Local Mu-
nicipalities with Heritage Cells have been described in
this subhead.
A.2.1 State Archaeology Departments A Research Project for NITI Aayog | 89
1. Andhra Pradesh Department of Archaeology and Museums
Observations/ Analysis:Fund Utilisation:
• Other Monuments like Heritage Parks, Rock Art Caves,
British Libraries, Dutch Cemetery, Residence of Sir
Aurthor Cotton & Sri Kandukuri Veereshalingam Pan-
thulu, Puligadda
• conducting surveys and explorations, excavations,
• preservation of historical monuments and sites,
• acquisition of Treasure Troves,
• sculpture conservation of protected monuments,
• epigraphically survey,
• village wise epigraphical survey
• shifting of sculptures and epigraphically pillars/
slabs to the nearest museums
• preparation of excavation reports,
• directory of monuments for each district
• Documentation of monuments
• departmental publication on the research work
• maintenance of the Museums all over the State
Best Practices:
Conservation of Forts, Temples and Museum Upgra-
dation.
Conservation of Kondapalli Fort, Vijaywada; Source - DRONAH 90 |Challenges faced in Heritage Management in India and Policy Imperatives
2. Department of Cultural Affairs -Arunachal Pradesh Directorate of research – Archaeological Section
Sector: Public; State Government No. of Heritage Structures under it: 8
Objective and Organisation Description: Subcategories:
The Directorate of Research, under the Department of
Cultural Affairs was formed in 1951. Earlier only three
sections – Culture, Philology and History were created.
At present there are two more sections – Archaeology
and Museum and Archives in the department.
The Archaeological section is one of the important sec-
tions among the four major sections of the Directorate
of Research.
Category Number
Archaeological Sites 3
Forts and Palaces 5
Website: http://research.arunachal.gov.in/research/
Apatani Cultural Landscape and Thembang Dzong
are two sites of Arunachal Pradesh on Tentative List
of India
Funding and Sustenance:
Budget 2021-22 Rs.1 crore allocated for development
of World War-II cemetery.
Conservation Acts/ Policies:Fund Utilisation:
The Arunachal Pradesh Ancient Monument, Archaeo-
logical Sites and Remains Preservation Act, 1987, 1990
• Exploration and Excavation
• Conservation/Renovation
• Maintenance & Development of Archaeological
Monuments & Sites Archaeological Museums
• Documentations
• Organizing & Participating in Seminars/Workshop
etc.
• Publication of books, articles on Archaeological
matters
• Till now, 11nos. of books have been published in
Archaeology & History of Arunachal Pradesh
Conservation Works Done:
• Archaeological field investigation/ exploration of
Sori-Langhi site of Donigaon Village under Seppa during
August’2016.
• Chemical treatment of Bass relief of Lord Buddha
during August’2016.
• Archaeological excavation and conservation works at
the Western Gate and Eastern Gate Itafort (1st phase)
during September-October’2016 and 2nd phase on Feb-
ruary-March’2017.
• Excavation, conservation/renovation and preservation
of ramparts steps of both entry and exit gates of Them-
bang Dzong and also constructed underground drainage
system within the Dzong during November-Decem-
ber’2016.
Observations/ Analysis:
The department has limited professional staff and
requires capacity building. They have been trying to
prepare the nomination dossier for Apatani Cultural
Landscape since last few years but have not been able
to submit it to UNESCO as per ASI approval. A Research Project for NITI Aayog | 91
2. Department of Cultural Affairs -Arunachal Pradesh Directorate of research – Archaeological Section
• Excavation at Malinithan Site during November’2017.
• Chemical conservation of antrala/mandapa of Malin-
ithan ruins temple during November-December’2016.
• Archaeological investigation, conservation and preser-
vation of stone altars at Ziro during January’2017.
• Archaeological excavation and conservation works at
the Western Gate and Eastern Gate Itafort (2nd phase)
during March’2017.
• Supervised the monastic painting at Jamchu Chorten
(Morshing Gompa) during February-March’2017.
The department has limited professional staff and
requires capacity building. They have been trying to
prepare the nomination dossier for Apatani Cultural
Landscape since last few years but have not been able
to submit it to UNESCO as per ASI approval.
Conservation Works Done:Best Practices:
• The Archaeological Section developed the flower gar-
den at Southern Gate Itafort during September’2016.
• Field tour to Ziro to assess the materials for dossier
preparation of Tentative List World Heritage Site ‘Ap-
atani Cultural Landscape’ during February’2017 by the
Archaeological Section.
Cultural Landscapes such as Apatani that follow in-
digenous management systems is placed on the Ten-
tative List.
Tawang Monastery, Arunachal Pradesh; Source - Samvida Rai 92 |Challenges faced in Heritage Management in India and Policy Imperatives
3. Department of Cultural Affairs - Directorate of Archaeology, Assam
Sector: Public; State Government No. of Heritage Structures under it: 137
Objective and Organisation Description: Subcategories:
Set up in 1961 as the Directorate of Archaeology and
Museums the Directorate of Archaeology has been
functioning under Education (CTM) Department as an
independent Directorate since 1983. Objectives of the
Directorate are protection and preservation of ancient
archaeological sites, monuments, remains of historical
and archaeological importance, which are not less than
one hundred years old and developing these into centers
of tourists attraction in Assam, Archaeological explo-
ration of known and unknown sites, remains and their
preliminary survey, documentation of Antiquities found
at Archaeological sites as well as at excavated archaeo-
logical sites in Assam, conservation and restoration of
protected Archaeological sites, publications, involvement
of student community in maintenance, upkeep and beau-
tification of archaeological sites and monuments as per
the scheme “Students participation in preservation of
cultural properties in Assam”, Protection, preservation
and development of various Sattras of Assam.
Category Number
Archaeological Sites 51
Forts and Palaces 8
Industrial Sites 2
Memorial Structures 18
Religious Structures 52
Water Structures and
Waterbodies
6
Website: http://archaeology.assam.gov.in/
Funding and Sustenance:
It has several schemes funded under the annual Plan
and Non Plan Budget
Fund Utilisation:
• Exploration and Excavation
• Protection, preservation and Development of Ar-
chaeological Sites and Monuments
• Development of Archaeological Parks and site mu-
seums
• Seminars and Exhibitions
• Student participation for preservation of cultural
properties
• Registration of art objects and antiquities
• Publications
Conservation Acts/ Policies:
The Assam Ancient Monument and Records Act, 1959
The Assam Heritage (Tangible) Protection, Preservation,
Conservation and Maintenance Act, 2020
Conservation Works Done:
The Directorate of Archaeology, Assam is doing conser-
vation and restoration works, as required, in 117 nos of
protected Archaeological Sites and Monuments of the
State as per original in phase manner.
Chahraideo Archaeological Site, 2016-2017 A Research Project for NITI Aayog | 93
3. Department of Cultural Affairs - Directorate of Archaeology, Assam
Na Pukhuri Shiva Temple Archaeological Site, 2016-2017
Observations/ Analysis:Best Practices:
It is currently preparing nomination dossier for one of
the most significant sites of Assam, Moidams of Ahom
Dynasty and the Department has engaged ex ASI offi-
cials as part of capacity building.
Significant excavations have been conducted with 31
new sites found in last few years by the Department
Charaideo Maidam, Assam; Source - charaideo.gov.in 94 |Challenges faced in Heritage Management in India and Policy Imperatives
Patna Museum; Source - DRONAH A Research Project for NITI Aayog | 95
4. Directorate of Archaeology, Bihar
Sector: Public; State Government No. of Heritage Structures under it: 51
Objective and Organisation Description: Subcategories:
1In the year 1961, the Directorate of Archaeology and
Museums was constituted on the recommendation of the
Government of India. In the year 1987, however, the Di-
rectorate of Archaeology was separated from that of the
Museums. The two separate Directorates were formed
in order to pursue more skilled, and professional opera-
tions. The Directorate of Archaeology aims at generating
awareness and creating interest among public regarding
importance of historical heritage and its conservation
in Bihar and bringing new dimensions of archaeology
to light through archaeological excavation, exploration,
publication and seminars.
Category Number
Archaeological Sites 9
Cultural Landscapes 8
Forts and Palaces 8
Historic Gardens 1
Memorial Structures 6
Public Structures 3
Religious Structures 12
Residential Structures 4
Website: https://state.bihar.gov.in/yac/
Funding and Sustenance:
Bihar State Government has sufficiently funded Art
and Culture Projects in the state in last 5 years with
some biggest museum projects such as the Bihar Mu-
seum (500 cr) inaugurated in 2015 and hosting the
first Museum Biennale of the country in 2021
Conservation Acts/ Policies:
Bihar Ancient Monuments and Archaeological Sites’ Re-
mains and Art Treasures Act, 1976
Conservation Works Done:Fund Utilisation:
Significant excavations have been conducted on several
sites but the department has not undertaken much of
built heritage conservation. Patna Museum building is
one of the first ongoing conservation work for a heri-
tage structure of the department but it is being executed
through the Building Construction Department of Bihar.
• Publications
• Seminars and workshops
• Exploration and identification of archaeological
sites
Observations/ Analysis:Best Practices:
Requires Capacity Building in Building Conservation and
Archaeological Sites protection.
Ongoing conservation of the Patna Museum. 96 |Challenges faced in Heritage Management in India and Policy Imperatives
5. Chhattisgarh Directorate of Culture and Archaeology
Sector: Public; State Government No. of Heritage Structures under it: 58
Objective and Organisation Description: Subcategories:
The Department promotes textual as well as non-textual
traditions, collection and documentation of tangible ob-
jects as well as recollection of intangible traditions, their
ex situ display as well as in situ revitalization.
The functional spectrum of the Department is rather
wide, ranging from generating cultural an archaeological
awareness at the grassroots level to promoting their ex-
changes at an international level.
Category Number
Archaeological Sites 10
Fort and Palaces 2
Memorial Structures 1
Public Structures 1
Religious Structures 44
Website: https://cgculture.in/
Conservation Acts/ Policies:Funding and Sustenance:
The Madhya Pradesh Ancient Monuments and Archaeo-
logical Sites and Remains (Amendment) Act, 1970.
Annual Plan and Non Plan Budget
Fund Utilisation:
Conservation Works Done:• Maintenance and conservation of the heritage, an-
cient monuments and historic site of Chhattisgarh;
• Promotion of literary, visual and performing arts;
• Maintenance, preservation and conservation of the
archival records;
• Protection, conservation and documentation of cul-
tural property;
• Observation of different national and state festivals;
• Promotion of institutional and individual initiatives
in the fields of art and culture;
• Publications
Only minor works have been done by the department.
No major building conservation work has been under-
taken
Observations/ Analysis:
Requires Capacity building in conservation and excava-
tion.
Best Practices: A Research Project for NITI Aayog | 97
6. Goa Directorate of Archives and Archaeology
Sector: Public; State Government No. of Heritage Structures under it: 51
Objective and Organisation Description: Subcategories:
The Directorate of Archives and Archeology is the old-
est Archives in the country. Established on 25th February
1595, the Archive was named as “Torre do Tombo do
Estado da India”. The directorate envisions to promote
the feeling of great pride of Goa’s documentary and cul-
tural heritage and preservation of it for posterity.
Category Number
Archaeological Sites 9
Cultural Landscapes 8
Forts and Palaces 12
Industrial Sites 1
Institutional Structures 1
Conservation Acts/ Policies:Water Structures and waterbodies1
The Goa, Daman and Diu Ancient Monuments and Ar-
chaeological Sites and Remains Act, 1978 and Rules, 1980
Religious Structures 21
Conservation Works Done:Website: https://daa.goa.gov.in/
As mentioned in the vision document for 2021:
1. Restoration of Corjuvem Fort, Ruins of Jain Basti –
phase II, Alorna Fort Phase II and Saptakoteshwar Tem-
ple Naroa Bicholim
2. Detailed documentation of all protected monuments
in Goa and to conduct structural audit.
Funding and Sustenance:
Budget for 2020-21 is Rs 2954 Lakhs
Fund Utilisation:
• Servicing of records
• Research and Publication
• Preservation and Reprography
Observations/ Analysis:Best Practices:
It is very actively engaged in conservation works with
professionals and experts.
It includes the oldest archives department in the
country since 1595 and has very good old records. 98 |Challenges faced in Heritage Management in India and Policy Imperatives
Mahabat Khan Maqbara, Junagadh ; Source - gujarattourism.com A Research Project for NITI Aayog | 99
7. Gujarat Directorate of Archaeology and Museums
Sector: Public; State Government No. of Heritage Structures under it: 317
Objective and Organisation Description: Subcategories:
Gujarat Directorate of Archaeology and Museums has
been established in the year 1964. Even before indepen-
dence, princely states like Vadodara, Jamnagar and Jun-
agadh contributed to archeological activities. They also
had their own laws for the preservation of monuments.
Category Number
Administrative Structures1
Archaeological Sites 30
Archaeological Sites - Caves14
Cultural Landscapes 1
Conservation Acts/ Policies:Forts and Palaces 40
The Gujarat Ancient Monuments and Archaeological
Sites and Remains Act, 1965
Industrial Sites 2
Memorial Structures 16
Conservation Works Done:Public Structures 4
Works done in the year 2017-18
Archaeological Village Survey / Survey 02 Villages
Archaeological excavation site 07
Chemical maintenance of protected monuments 02 vil-
lages
Building Survey 10
Religious Structures 138
Residential Structures 4
Water Structures and Waterbodies67
Funding and Sustenance:
Website: https://archaeologymuseum.gujarat.gov.
in/Museum/index.htm
Fund Utilisation:
• Maintenance of monuments and necessary conser-
vation work
• Archaeological survey excavations,
• Publishing articles,
• Organizing archeological exhibitions,
• Organizing lecture series/seminars,
• Archaeological Tour Camp,
• Site inspection,
• Work related to cases under the Underground Mon-
ey Act,
• Chemical maintenance to prevent damage,
• Inspection of protected monuments.
Observations/ Analysis:
Details of conservation works are not mentioned on the
website.
Best Practices: 100 |Challenges faced in Heritage Management in India and Policy Imperatives
8. Haryana Directorate of Archaeology and Museums
Sector: Public; State Government No. of Heritage Structures under it: 36
Objective and Organisation Description: Subcategories:
The Department of Archaeology & Museums, Haryana
is a premier department came into existence in the shape
of a cell under the Control of Education department in
the year 1969 and as an independent department in the
year 1972.
It conducts archaeological excavation and explorations,
protection and conservation of Proto-historical, medie-
val and historical monuments sites and remains from the
research point of view on the one hand and publishes re-
search reports of excavated sites and explorations of the
districts, booklets, folders etc. and organizes exhibitions
including other museum activities and prepares replicas
of ancient sculptures for sale to acquaint researchers and
general public with their rich ancient heritage on the oth-
er.
Category Number
Archaeological Sites 12
Forts and Palaces 3
Industrial Sites 1
Memorial Structures 6
Public Structures 1
Religious Structures 10
Residential Structures 1
Water Structures and Waterbodies2
Website: http://archaeologyharyana.nic.in/
Funding and Sustenance:
1.67cr is the revised estimate proposed by head of
department for 2020-21.
Conservation Acts/ Policies:Fund Utilisation:
The Punjab Ancient and Historical Monuments and Ar-
chaeological Sites and Remains Act, 1964
• Upcoming projects
Rakhigarhi Site Museum
State Archaeological Museum at Panchkula
• Travelling exhibitions
• Souvenirs, replicas
• Heritage corners program for students
• Workshops, lectures, on-site training, walks
• Library services
• Digitization and photography
• Research publications
• Digital and social media events
• Preservation of sites, excavation and exploration
• GIS mapping
Conservation Works Done:
Upcoming Projects:
Rakhigarhi Site Museum
State Archaeology Museum
Observations/ Analysis:
The department has engaged team of archaeologists in
last few years and conducted significant excavations. Re-
quires Capacity Building in Built Heritage Conservation
Best Practices: A Research Project for NITI Aayog | 101
Dehra Mandir, Firojpur Jhirkha, Mewat; Source - archaeologyharyana.nic.in
Dehra Mandir
1451 AD
Monument
The temple was possibly constructed in
1451 AD (Samvat1508) as can be inferred
from an inscription fixed on the upper
portion of the entrance of the pillared hall
(Sabhamandapa) of the temple. This
temple consists of three sanctum-
sanctorums for the three Tirthankars; a
pillared hall and a circumambulatory path
(Pradakshinapath). The temple
architecture appears to be heavily
influenced by then prevailing Lodhi style
of architecture.
DEHRA MANDIR, FIROJPUR JHIRKHA, MEWAT, NUH
General view
General viewOuter wall decoration 102 |Challenges faced in Heritage Management in India and Policy Imperatives
9. Himachal Pradesh Department of Language, Art and Culture
Sector: Public; State Government No. of Heritage Structures under it: 5
Objective and Organisation Description: Subcategories:
It is a recently established Department in 2016 with aim
to promote both tangible and intangible heritage of Hi-
machal Pradesh.
Category Number
Religious Structures 5
Website: http://lacartist.hp.gov.in/
Conservation Acts/ Policies:Funding and Sustenance:
The Himachal Pradesh Ancient and Historical Monu-
ments and Archaeological Sites and Remains Act, 1976
NA
Conservation Works Done:Fund Utilisation:
Not very active in built heritage conservation of archae-
ology.
NA
Observations/ Analysis:Best Practices:
Works more on intangible heritage. It has undertaken listing of built heritage of Himach-
al Pradesh with 1100 heritage structures and sites.
Chamunda Devi Temple, Chamba; Source - Himachal Pradesh Department of Language, Art and Culture A Research Project for NITI Aayog | 103
10. Jharkhand Directorate of Culture
Sector: Public; State Government No. of Heritage Structures under it: 3
Objective and Organisation Description: Subcategories:
Directorate of Arts and Culture plays an important role
in the preservation, promotion and development of the
cultural traditions of the state. New schemes/ activities
are introduced by implementing programs in the direc-
tion of welfare and providing financial support to artists.
Its aim is to develop the basic and cultural values and
perceptions of people and ways and means to be active
and dynamic. Appropriate infrastructure is established
Category Number
Forts and Palaces 1
Religious Structures 2
Website: https://jharkhandculture.com/
for artists and the general public in the field of art and
culture.
Funding and Sustenance:
NA
Conservation Acts/ Policies:Fund Utilisation:
Jharkhand Ancient Monuments and Archaeological Sites,
Remains and Art Treasures Act, 2016
NA
Conservation Works Done:
After the establishment of the state of Jharkhand, after
the establishment of the Art Culture Department by Dr.
Harendra Prasad Sinha, various places in the whole state
have been brought under light, through preliminary in-
vestigations, which were not previously known.
Observations/ Analysis:Best Practices:
It is a new department taking shape so substantial capac-
ity building is needed 104 |Challenges faced in Heritage Management in India and Policy Imperatives
11. Karnataka Department of Archaeology Museums and Heritage
Sector: Public; State Government No. of Heritage Structures under it: 801
Objective and Organisation Description: Subcategories:
The Directorate of Archaeology and Museums, Mysore
was established during 1885. Commissionerate of Ar-
chaeology, Museums and Heritage, Bangalore was estab-
lished during 2004. Both were merged as per GO dated
23.2.2012 and the Commissioner was made as the HOD
of Archaeology, Museums and Heritage, Mysore.
Category Number
Administrative Structures3
Archaeological Sites 139
Forts and Palaces 61
Industrial Sites 2
Institutional Structures 2
Website: https://archaeology.karnataka.gov.in/englishMemorial Structures 28
Conservation Acts/ Policies:Public Structures 10
The Karnataka Ancient Monuments and Archaeological
Sites and Remains Act, 1961
Mysore Ancient Monuments Preservation Act, 1925.
Rules 1965
Religious Structures 549
Residential Structures 4
Water Structures and
Waterbodies
3
Conservation Works Done:Funding and Sustenance:
170 works have been completed and remaining 16 works
is in progress under the PPP scheme.
The TVS Motor Company has taken keen interest in the
conservation and preservation of monuments and suc-
cessfully carried out the conservation of 1) Prasanna
Krishnaswamy Temple and Lakshmiramana Temple
in the Mysore Palace complex were partially taken care
of by them by installing Dwajasthambas. 2) The Ma-
habaleshwara Temple and Narayanswamy Temple atop
Chamundeswari Temple 3) The Chamundeswari Temple
Chariot House and Kysale and Garbhagudi of Sri Cha-
mundeswari Temple.
The Gunja Narashimswamy temple at T.Narasipura in
Mysore District was conserved with the financial assis-
tance of Rs.2.00crore with their conservation experts
PPP concept along with Government (Public Private
Participation) has been introduced for the purpose of
conservation of monuments with an expenditure ra-
tio.
The government has released Rs. 880.52 lakhs by at
a ratio of 40%. The remaining Rs.13.30crore will be
borne by Shri Dharmasthala Trust and Temple Com-
mittee.
Fund Utilisation:
• Excavation
• Exploration
• Numismatics
• Conservation
• Heritage
• Epigraphy A Research Project for NITI Aayog | 105
11. Karnataka Department of Archaeology Museums and Heritage (Contd.)
and guidance imparted by this Department.
The Hampi Foundation headed by the Jindal Company
successfully carried out the conservation of Sri. Chan-
dramouleshwara Temple at Anegundi in Gangavathi ta-
luk, Koppal District and Sri Sowmyasomeshwara Temple
at Hampi in Hospet Taluk, Bellary District.
• Publications
• Museums
• Seminar
• Exhibition
• Workshop
• Heritage Walk and Clubs
• Training Camps
Conservation Works Done:Observations/ Analysis:
Conservation of Sri Yoganarasimhaswamy temple at
Melukote, Pandavapura taluk, Mandya District was spon-
sored by Smt. Sudha Janardhan, Bengaluru with an ex-
penditure of Rs.75.00lakhs. The Conservation work was
carried out by an experienced contractor under the guid-
ance of Departmental Archaeological Conservation En-
gineer (South Zone) and Technical Advisory Committee.
The work was completed.

Conservation of Rajagopura of Sri Yoganarasimhas-
wamy temple at Melukote, Pandavapura taluk, Mandya
district was sponsored by Sri Raveendra, the NRI with an
expenditure of Rs.150.00lakhs. The Conservation work
was carried out by an experienced contractor under the
guidance of Departmental Archaeological Conservation
Engineer (South Zone) and Technical Advisory Commit-
tee. The work was completed.

Conservation and Restoration of Conservation of Pan-
chakalyani, Ganesha Honda and adjacent tanks at Melu-
kote in Mandya District with the financial assistance of
the Infosys Foundation (Regd.), Bengaluru to the tune
of Rs.6.00crore with their conservation experts work is
under progress.
Very active department with substantial experience in
conservation works
Best Practices: 106 |Challenges faced in Heritage Management in India and Policy Imperatives
Padmanabhapuram Palace, Kerala; Source - padmanabhapurampalace.org A Research Project for NITI Aayog | 107
12. Kerala State Department of Archaeology
Sector: Public; State Government No. of Heritage Structures under it: 195
Objective and Organisation Description: Subcategories:
The Department of Archaeology was formed in 1962
and has been actively engaged in scientifically conducting
archaeological excavation and explorations, conservation
of Proto-historical, medieval and historical monuments,
thereby preserving and protecting these cultural centres.
Category Number
Administrative Structures6
Archaeological Sites 33
Archeological Sites - Caves10
Conservation Acts/ Policies:Forts and Palaces 41
Kerala ancient monuments and archaeological sites and
remains Act – 1968
Industrial Sites 1
Institutional Structures 6
Memorial Structures 6
Public Buildings 10
Website: http://archaeology.kerala.gov.in/Religious Structures 34
Conservation Works Done:Residential Structures 3
Padmanabhapuram Palace
The department took the lead in the explorations and ex-
cavations in Muziris. In 2003-4, the department did many
diggings at Pattanam in North Paravoor, which resulted
in finding over 150 items. The excavations in the Edakkal
Caves in 2008 brought to light many ancient engravings.
Diggings are being done at Kottappuram in Kodungal-
loor.
Funding and Sustenance:
Annual Plan budget and funds from Central Minis-
tries
Fund Utilisation:
• Taking over possession of monuments and items of
historical importance and value
• Taking over possession of historical remains
• Excavations
• To determine the archaeological value of an object
• To register archaeological objects
• To conduct a survey on archaeological objects or
historical monuments
• Renovating historical structures
Observations/ Analysis:
Has recently taken up several museum upgradations in
association with the tourism department
Best Practices:
Conservation of Padmanabhapuram Palace 108 |Challenges faced in Heritage Management in India and Policy Imperatives
13. Madhya Pradesh Directorate of Archaeology, Archives and Museums
Sector: Public; State Government No. of Heritage Structures under it: 527
Objective and Organisation Description: Subcategories:
Directorate of Archeology, Archives and Museums Mad-
hya Pradesh was established in the year 1956 and merged
with the Government Archives in the year 1994.

The main task of department is protecting and conserv-
ing archaeological, historical and cultural monuments
and antiquities of Madhya Pradesh. Apart from this the
department also conducts various research activities like
excavation, exploration, development of museums, sem-
inars & conferences, workshops and exhibitions etc.
Madhya Pradesh Heritage Development Trust was es-
tablished on 27-05-2000. The objective of this trust is
to receive funds from national and foreign investors and
spend it on the protection, preservation and develop-
ment of state’s archaeological heritage, monuments and
museums.
Category Number
Administrative Structures5
Archaeological Sites 33
Archaeological Sites - Caves3
Forts and Palaces 111
Historic Gardens 2
Industrial Sites 3
Institutional Structures 2
Memorial Structures 80
Public Structures 14
Religious Structures 226
Residential Structures 13
Water Structures and
Waterbodies
35
Website: http://archaeology.mp.gov.in/en-us/
Conservation Acts/ Policies:Funding and Sustenance:
Madhya Pradesh Ancient Monuments and Archaeologi-
cal Sites and Remains Act, 1964, amendment 1970
Conservation Works Done:
The department has protected various important archae-
ological monuments of historical importance periodical-
ly.
The conservation & restoration work on the monuments
is carried out by the funds provided by State government
and grants received from other sources like Ministry of
Tourism & Culture, Planning Commission of India un-
der 13th Finance Commission & other government or
Fund Utilisation:
• Training and Seminars
• Workshop A Research Project for NITI Aayog | 109
Name: Madhya Pradesh Directorate of Archaeology, Archives and Museums
ganizations. The conservation & restoration works was
carried out in most of the State Protected Monuments
• Exhibitions
• Library
• Conservation, excavation
• Research
• Publications
Observations/ Analysis:
Department was supported by the World Minuments
Fund in Capacity Building for implementing works under
the 13th Finance CommissionBest Practices:
Sheopur Fort; Source - DRONAH 110 |Challenges faced in Heritage Management in India and Policy Imperatives
13. Maharashtra Directorate of Archaeology and Museum
Sector: Public; State Government No. of Heritage Structures under it: 244
Objective and Organisation Description: Subcategories:
Category Number
Archaeological Sites 12
Archaeological Sites - Caves5
Forts and Palaces 49
Conservation Acts/ Policies:Historic Gardens 2
Maharashtra Ancient monuments, Antiquity and remains
Act – 1960
Industrial Sites 2
Institutional Structures 1
Conservation Works Done:Memorial Structures 33
Aims to undertake several conservation works for Forts
of Maharashtra including the nomination of the Forts
on UNESCO List.
Public Structures 5
Religious Structures 117
Residential Structures 13
Observations/ Analysis:Water Structures and Waterbodies5
It is a very active department carrying our several conser-
vation and excavation works
Website: Not available
Funding and Sustenance:
Best Practices:The directorate has a budget of Rs 25 crore for its
activitiesDirectorate of Archaeology & Museums Mumbai Bharti
2020 is started and it is officially published by the De-
partment of Directorate of Archaeology & Museums
Mumbai.
Fund Utilisation:
Antur Fort, Aurangabad; Source - Maharashtra State Archaeology A Research Project for NITI Aayog | 111
14. Manipur State Archaeology
Sector: Public; State Government No. of Heritage Structures under it: 49
Objective and Organisation Description: Subcategories:
The Manipur State Archaeology established by the Gov-
ernment of Manipur in 1978 has been devoting to the
preservation, protection, exploration and excavation of
ancient and historical monuments, archaeological sites
and remains in the State.
Category Number
Archaeological Sites 18
Cultural Landscapes 2
Forts and Palaces 5
Historic Gardens 1
Memorial Structures 8
Website: http://artnculturemanipur.gov.in/estab-
lishment/manipur-state-archaeology/
Public Structures 3
Religious Structures 10
Water Structures 1
Conservation Acts/ Policies:Funding and Sustenance:
NA
Conservation Works Done:Fund Utilisation:
Kangla Fort1) Restoration &reconstruction of important Histor-
ical Monuments and Sites
2) Development of important holy and sacred sites.
3) Reuse of European buildings and Bungalows as
Museum and Office.
4) Plantation of trees.
5) Development of Gardens and Lawns.
Observations/ Analysis:Best Practices: 112 |Challenges faced in Heritage Management in India and Policy Imperatives
15. Mizoram Art and Culture Department
Sector: Public; State Government No. of Heritage Structures under it: 81
Objective and Organisation Description: Subcategories:
The Department of Art & Culture headed by the Sec-
retary in the Govt. and the Director in the Directorate
began to function since February 1989 and makes its
own Five-Year Plans commencing from the 8th Five Year
Plan onwards.
The primary objective is the Preservation and conser-
vation of tangible and intangible cultural heritage of
Mizoram, documenting tribal culture of Mizoram, by
promoting and conserving its cultural treasures and pro-
moting performing, visual, literary arts and disseminate
knowledge and wisdom through libraries. Investigation,
verification and preservation of the historical remains,
monoliths and landmarks along with documentation.
Identification of heritage sites/buildings and preserva-
tion of Tangible and intangible heritage.
Category Number
Administrative Structures7
Archaeological Sites 38
Archaeological Sites 7
Cultural Landscapes 2
Memorial Structures 2
Public Structures 9
Residential Structures 13
Water Structures and Waterbodies2
Website: https://mizoculture.mizoram.gov.in/
Funding and Sustenance:
Conservation Acts/ Policies:
Mizoram Ancient Monuments and Archaeological sites
and Remains Act, 2001
Conservation Works Done:
1. Exploration and documentation of Hriangmual, Hri-
angtuinek, Khaungzangpuk at Phuaibuang, SaitualD-
istrict was executed in collaboration with INTACH,
Mizoram Chapter.
2. Systematic studies on Stone tools that were collected
by Mizoram State Museum was conducted in collabo-
ration with History & Ethnography Dept and Geology
Dept. Mizoram University.
3. Revised edition of Built Heritage of Mizoram was pre-
pared in collaboration with INTACH, Mizoram Chapter. A Research Project for NITI Aayog | 113
15. Mizoram Art and Culture Department
4. Data on various sites within the Sate were collected
for declaration as State Protected monuments under the
Mizoram.
5. Digitization of Archives
Fund Utilisation:
As the sole agency in development of Art & Culture,
Mizoram, the Deptt. exercises the following func-
tions:- 1. Cultural exchange programme 2. Conserva-
tion of Natural & Manmade Heritage 3. Museum 4.
Archives 5. Library Services 6. Institute of Music &
Fine Arts 7. Tribal Research Institute 8. District Gaz-
etteer 9. Statistics
Observations/ Analysis:
Best Practices:
16. Meghalaya Department of Art and Culture
Sector: Public; State Government No. of Heritage Structures under it: 4
Objective and Organisation Description: Subcategories:
Preservation, documentation, research, promotion, de-
velopment and augmentation of arts and culture in the
State continue to be the important objectives of the Arts
and Culture Department. For achieving these objectives,
a separate Department of Arts and Culture was created
on 1st August 1988 to deal exclusively with the preserva-
tion of ancient arts, culture and heritage including pro-
motion and expansion of cultural activities in the State
of Meghalaya.
Category Number
Archaeological Sites 1
Forts and Palaces 1
Religious Structures 2
Sacred Groves133
Website: http://megartsculture.gov.in/
Funding and Sustenance:
Conservation Acts/ Policies:Fund Utilisation:
The Meghalaya Heritage Act, 2012 • Publications
• Research
• Museum
• Conservation and excavation work
Conservation Works Done:
Exploration/ Survey of:
• The Neolithic Site in the Ganol and Rongram River
valley in the West Garo Hills
• Pre-Historic Archaeology in the Barapani area and Up-
per Shillong area of the East Khasi Hills
• Archaeological sites at Bhaitbari, West Garo Hills
• The Syndai Historical and Archaeological Remains
Observations/ Analysis:
Best Practices:
Listing of Sacred Groves
(Contd.) 114 |Challenges faced in Heritage Management in India and Policy Imperatives
17. Nagaland The Department of Art & Culture
Sector: Public; State Government No. of Heritage Structures under it: -
Objective and Organisation Description: Subcategories:
The Directorate of Art and Culture, formerly known as
the Naga Institute of Culture, came into being on the
1st November 1964. The objective initially was to carry
on research on Naga Life and Culture and a Research
Library. Later in 1971, the department was renamed as
the Directorate of Cultural Research and State Museum
and again on the 4th December 1973 the department was
finally renamed as the Directorate of Art and Culture.
Category Number
Website: https://nagaculture.in/
Conservation Acts/ Policies:Funding and Sustenance:
Conservation Works Done:Fund Utilisation:
Observations/ Analysis:Best Practices:
18. Odisha State Archaeology
Sector: Public; State Government No. of Heritage Structures under it: 218
Objective and Organisation Description: Subcategories:
State Archaeology functioned separately from 1965. Ear-
lier it was attached with State Museum. The main activi-
ties of State Archaeology are survey and exploration of
monuments and archaeological sites, protection and con-
servation of monuments having local and State impor-
tance, excavation of archaeological sites and publication
on its different activities.
Category Number
Archaeological Sites 9
Archaeological Sites - Caves1
Cultural Landscapes 1
Forts and Palaces 8
Memorial Structures 1
Public Structures 3
Website: http://odishaculture.in/en/home_gal-
lery/odisha-state-archaeology-bhubaneswar/
Religious Structures 196 A Research Project for NITI Aayog | 115
18. Odisha State Archaeology
Conservation Acts/ Policies:Funding and Sustenance:
Odisha Ancient Monuments Preservation Act of 1956Under the refurbishment program of Tourism De-
partment, Government of India, for which funds
were received through the Department of Tourism,
Government of Odisha the refurbishment work is
being done.
An amount of Rs.28 lakhs for preservation of Jaina
Heritage of Odisha have been sanctioned by Depart-
ment of Culture, Government of India. Mini site mu-
seum and sculpture sheds at the following places have
been completed.
Conservation Works Done:
• Khurdagarh
• Baladevjiu Temple, Kendrapara
• Binodabahari Temple, Raghunatha Nagar
Observations/ Analysis:Fund Utilisation:
Publications
• Research
• Museum
• Conservation and excavation work
Best Practices:
Udaygiri Caves, Odisha; Source - DRONAH
(Contd.) 116 |Challenges faced in Heritage Management in India and Policy Imperatives
Moorish Mosque, Kapurthala; Source - DRONAH A Research Project for NITI Aayog | 117
19. Punjab Directorate of Cultural Affairs, Archaeology and Museums
Sector: Public; State Government No. of Heritage Structures under it: 92
Objective and Organisation Description: Subcategories:
The Department aims to conserve and restore its mon-
uments. It works actively with the Tourism Department
and establishment of the special Punjab Heritage Tour-
ism Promotion Board (PHTPB).
Category Number
Administrative Structures3
Archaeological Sites 2
Website: https://punjab.gov.in/department-of-tour-
ism-and-cultural-affairs/
Forts and Palaces 15
Historic Gardens 2
Conservation Acts/ Policies:Memorial Structures 21
The Punjab Ancient and Historical Monuments and Ar-
chaeological Sites and Remains Act, 1964.
The Punjab Ancient and Historical Monuments and Ar-
chaeological Sites and Cultural Heritage Maintenance
Board Act, 2013
Public Structures 15
Religious Structures 12
Residential Structures 12
Water Structures and
Waterbodies
3
Conservation Works Done:Funding and Sustenance:
Conservation works of 21 monuments covered under
the 13th Finance Commission
Annual Budget and Rs. 100 Crores received under the
13th Finance Commission
Observations/ Analysis:Fund Utilisation:
Has remained actively involved in conservation since the
implementation of works under 13th FC
Conservation and Restoration of Monuments
Museums
Infrastructure Development for sites
Best Practices:
Drafted Culture Policy for Punjab with the UNESCO
New Delhi Office 118 |Challenges faced in Heritage Management in India and Policy Imperatives
20. Department of Archaeology and Museums, Rajasthan
Sector: Public; State Government No. of Heritage Structures under it: 391
Objective and Organisation Description: Subcategories:
The Department of Archaeology and Museums, as an
attached office under the Department of Art and Cul-
ture, is the premier organization for the archaeological
researches and protection of the cultural heritage of the
state. The Department since its inception in 1950 has
been making concerted efforts to discover, preserve, pro-
tect, exhibit and interpret the cultural legacy embodied
in various forms of art and architecture. At present the
Department has 19 museums, 2 art galleries, 4 proposed
museums, 342 monuments and 43 archaeological sites
under its control.
Category Number
Administrative Structures4
Archaeological Sites 69
Archaeological Sites - Caves2
Cultural Landscapes 1
Forts and Palaces 70
Historic Gardens 5
Institutional Structures 1
Memorial Structures 47
Public Structures 14
Website: http://museumsrajasthan.gov.in/ Religious Structures 128
Conservation Acts/ Policies:Residential Structures 25
The Rajasthan Monuments, Archaeological Sites and
Antiquities Act, 1961 with amendment in 2006, 2007
Water Structures and Waterbodies25
Funding and Sustenance:
Conservation Works Done:State Planning Board sanctioned 957.74 lacs and
Tourism Department sanctioned 725.41 lacs for the
conservation and development of sites in 2016-17.
In 2016-17
Safed Mahal, Bharatpur
Chaubuja Fort, Bharatpur
Ancient Remains Mau Bhorda, Jhalawar
Ancient Remains Dalhanpur, Jhalawar
Kamleshwar Mahadev Temple, Bundi
Patwa Haveli, Jaisalmer
Fund Utilisation:
• Preservation, Restoration and conservation of mon-
uments, antiquities and archaeological sites
• Excavation and exploration
• Survey and documentation
• Acquistion and exposition
• Re-organization and development of Museums
• Research and publication
• Exhibitions, seminars and lectures
• Numismatic branch
Observations/ Analysis:
It was the first state department in India to get its site
inscribed on World Heritage List.
Best Practices:
Archaeology Schedule of Rates drafted by the Depart A Research Project for NITI Aayog | 119
20. Department of Archaeology and Museums, Rajasthan
ment as early as 1995 and conservation works in tradition
techniques are a benchmark
• World Heritage
• Light and sound shows
• Tourist facilities
Conservation of Fateh Prakash Palace Museum, Chittorgarh, Rajasthan; Source - DRONAH
(Contd.) 120 |Challenges faced in Heritage Management in India and Policy Imperatives
21. Cultural Affairs and Heritage Department Sikkim
Sector: Public; State Government No. of Heritage Structures under it: -
Objective and Organisation Description: Subcategories:
The Cultural Affairs & Heritage Department has a vast
array of functions ranging from preservation and con-
servation of ancient monuments and consolidation of
ancient art and culture to organizing cultural shows with-
in the country and outside. The basic responsibility of
the Cultural Affairs & Heritage Department is the pro-
motion of art and culture of the State of Sikkim.
Category Number
Funding and Sustenance:
Grants-in-aid is also given to the different institutions
such as Gonpas, Chorten, Mandirs, etc. for renova-
tion and repairs. Besides, the Department also gives
annual Grants-in-aid to different autonomous insti-
tutions like the Namgyal Institute of Tibetology and
Sikkim Akademi. Broad details of such grants provid-
ed in 2015-16 are as under:
Grants to the 50 nos. of Religious Institutions, 65
Traditional Houses, 56 Devithans and 45 Chortens
/ Mendangs were provided funds for conservation
works under XIII-Finance Commission Grant.
Website: https://culture.sikkim.gov.in/
Conservation Acts/ Policies:
Not Acts
Conservation Works Done:
1. Conservation work of Taktse Ruined Fort was done
and Conservation Management Plan of the site
is also prepared.
2. Lepcha Museum at Namprikdang, Dzongu has been
upgraded.
Observations/ Analysis:
Needs capacity building
Best Practices:Fund Utilisation:
Support in the inscription of Mixed Site of Kanchend-
zonga National Parl
• Conservation and Preservation
• Kabi Sammelans,
• Bharat Utsavs,
• Theater Workshops and Fine Arts Exhibition
• Workshops A Research Project for NITI Aayog | 121
22. Tamil Nadu State Department of Archaeology
Sector: Public; State Government No. of Heritage Structures under it: 89
Objective and Organisation Description: Subcategories:
The State Department of Archaeology was established in
1961 with the following objectives: -
• To identify, conserve and preserve ancient and histori-
cal monuments.
• To conduct systematic archaeological explorations and
excavations in the historically important sites throughout
the State.
• Documenting the stone inscriptions by copying, deci-
phering and publishing.
• Establishing Site Museums.
Category Number
Archaeological Sites 24
Archaeological Sites - Caves1
Cultural Landscapes 3
Forts and Palaces 13
Memorial Structures 8
Religious Structures 40
Water Structures and Waterbodies2
Funding and Sustenance:
Website: https://www.tnarch.gov.in/ During the year 2018-2019, a special fund of Rs.1
crore was sanctioned for the conservation and main-
tenance for “Protected Monuments” of the Depart-
ment of Archaeology. The Infrastructure Develop-
ment Investment Program for Tourism in Tamil Nadu
a sub-project of the Asian Development Bank [ADB]
provides funds. The Asian Development Bank has
approved Rs.24 crore for the Restoration and Conser-
vation of 12 Protected Monuments of Department
of Archaeology.
During the year 2018-2019, fund of Rs.20 lakh was
sanctioned for the maintenance of Site Museums and
setting up of specialized library.
Conservation Acts/ Policies:
Tamil Nadu Ancient and Historical Monuments and Ar-
chaeological Sites and Remains Act- 1966
Tamil Nadu Heritage Commission Act, 2012
Conservation Works Done:
In 2018-2019, 24 protected monuments were identified
for undertaking conservation and maintenance works
like erection of fencing, notice and direction boards and
chemical cleaning, which were successfully completed.
Observations/ Analysis:
Best Practices:Fund Utilisation:
• Conservation of Monuments, Capacity building
• Excavation, Site Museums
• Conducting workshops, seminars, lectures
• Epigraphy, Publications, Research Centre
• Manuscript Library and Conservation Centre 122 |Challenges faced in Heritage Management in India and Policy Imperatives
23. Telangana Department of Heritage
Sector: Public; State Government No. of Heritage Structures under it: 348
Objective and Organisation Description: Subcategories:
After formation of the State of Andhra Pradesh in the
year 1956, the former Hyderabad Archaeological Depart-
ment was redesignated as the Department of Heritage
Telangana and subsequently it became known as the De-
partment of Heritage Telangana in the year 1960, till 1st
June, 2014. After bifurcation, the State of Telangana was
formed with effect from 2nd June, 2014.
Maintenance of ancient monuments, archaeological sites
and remains of historical importance is the major activity
of the department.
Category Number
Administrative Structures1
Archaeological Sites 136
Forts and Palaces 46
Institutional Structures 1
Memorial Structures 10
Public Structures 8
Religious Structures 146
Funding and Sustenance:
The Department has submitted proposals for conser-
vation of Monuments and upgradation of Museums
(61 works) to the 14th Finance Commission for a sum
of Rs. 100 crores.
Conservation Acts/ Policies:
Telangana Heritage (Protection, Preservation, Conserva-
tion and Maintenance) Act, 2017
Hyderabad Ancient Monuments Preservation Act (Hy-
derabad Act VIII of 1337 F.)
Conservation Works Done:Fund Utilisation:
The department has taken up Conservation / Resto-
ration to the 87 number of Monuments such as Buddhist
and Jain monuments, temples, forts, Islamic monuments
and colonial buildings etc. and modernization / Re-orga-
nization of Museums with the 13th Finance Commission
Grants.
• Conservation efforts of Khairtabad Mosque - 2019
• Reconstruction of Jakaram Shiva Temple
• Restoration of Shivalayam Madgula
• Restoration of Qutub Shahi tombs
• Reconstruction of the Shiva Temple, Lakshmidevi Pet
• Restoration efforts of Seetharambagh Temple, Hyder-
abad
• Conservation and restoration
• Excavations
• Heritage Tours, walks
• Museums
• World Heritage
• Exhibitions, workshops, seminars A Research Project for NITI Aayog | 123
23. Telangana Department of Heritage
• Restoration of Puranapul Darwaja, Hyderabad
• Conservation works of gate structure, public garden,
Hyderabad
• Reconstruction of Trikutalayam Jakaram villageWebsite: https://heritage.telangana.gov.in/
Observations/ Analysis:Best Practices:
Publications on Heritage
Khairat Khan’s Tomb, Hyderabad; Source - heritage.telangana.gov.in
(Contd.) 124 |Challenges faced in Heritage Management in India and Policy Imperatives
24. Uttar Pradesh Directorate of Archaeology and Museums
Sector: Public; State Government No. of Heritage Structures under it: 145
Objective and Organisation Description: Subcategories:
Category Number
Administrative Structures1
Archaeological Sites 42
Website: Not AvailableForts and Palaces 27
Conservation Acts/ Policies:Industrial Sites 2
The U.P. Ancient and Historical Monuments and Archae-
ological Sites and Remains Preservation Act, 1956
Memorial Structures 11
Public Structures 4
Conservation Works Done:Religious Structures 52
Water Structures 5
Funding and Sustenance:Fund Utilisation:
Observations/ Analysis:Best Practices:
25. Uttarakhand Directorate of Culture
Sector: Public; State Government No. of Heritage Structures under it: 47
Objective and Organisation Description: Subcategories:
Category Number
Archaeological Sites 2
Website: Not AvailableForts and Palaces 1
Conservation Acts/ Policies:Memorial Structures 2
The U.P. Ancient and Historical Monuments and Archae-
ological Sites and Remains Preservation Act, 1956
Religious Structures 41
Water Structures and Waterbodies1
Funding and Sustenance:
Conservation Works Done:Fund Utilisation: A Research Project for NITI Aayog | 125
42
Nanda Devi Temple Complex; Source - uttarakhandculture.in 126 |Challenges faced in Heritage Management in India and Policy Imperatives
26. West Bengal Directorate of Archaeology and Museums
Sector: Public; State Government No. of Heritage Structures under it: 106
Objective and Organisation Description: Subcategories:
The Directorate of Archaeology and Museums, Govt. of
West Bengal, is responsible for the preservation of 108
State Protected Monuments and Sites under the purview
of “The West Bengal Preservation of Historical Mon-
uments and Objects and Excavation of Archaeological
Sites Act 1957 and Rules 1964”. The Directorate also
maintains and administers the State Archaeological Mu-
seum in Kolkata with seven display galleries, representing
the history &culture of West Bengal. Apart from these,
six District Museums and about twenty Rural Museums
in West Bengal are provided financial aid and technical
assistance.
Category Number
Archaeological Sites 5
Forts and Palaces 6
Memorial Structures 4
Religious Structures 90
Residential Structures 1
Website: Not Available
Funding and Sustenance:
Conservation Acts/ Policies:Fund Utilisation:
The West Bengal Preservation of Historical Monuments
and Objects and Excavation of Archaeological Sites Act,
1957
• Conservation and restoration
• Excavations
• Museums
• Exhibitions, workshops, seminars
Conservation Works Done:Best Practices:
The conservation of the excavated Buddhist monastery
at Moghalmari was taken up in 2014-15. Several conser-
vation projects of the state protected monuments were
included in the 13th Finance Commission Plan. Conser-
vation of Radha Gobinda temple at Antpur, Hooghly
was also done in 2014-15.
Observations/ Analysis: A Research Project for NITI Aayog | 127
27. West Bengal Heritage Commission
Sector: Public; State Government No. of Heritage Structures under it: NA
Objective and Organisation Description: Subcategories:
The West Bengal Heritage Commission was constitutedCategory Number
through an Act called The West Bengal Heritage Com-
mission Act 2001 by the West Bengal State Legislative
Assembly. The objective for creating such a Commission
was to prepare an authentic list of buildings, monuments,
precincts and sites as built heritage and to adopt mea-
sures for their restoration and preservation.
The Commission deals with various issues related to the
heritage structures that are not under the preview of Ar-
chaeological Survey of India or State Archaeology Dept.
Also the other major activity of the Commission is to
create awareness and sensitize general people for preser-
vation of built heritage.
Website: https://wbhc.in/
Funding and Sustenance:
Conservation Acts/ Policies:Fund Utilisation:
The West Bengal Heritage Commission Act, 2001• Listing and grading of structures
• Policies and guidelines
• Conservation and restoration
• Excavations
• Museums
• Exhibitions, workshops, seminars
Conservation Works Done:
The Serampore Initiative
Observations/ Analysis:Best Practices:
A complete list is still not available, when listing is one of
the objectives of the Commission.
Listing of Heritage 128 |Challenges faced in Heritage Management in India and Policy Imperatives
28. Delhi Department of Archaeology
Sector: Public; State Government No. of Heritage Structures under it: 18
Objective and Organisation Description: Subcategories:
Delhi Department of Archaeology has been established
in Delhi Administration in the year 1978. The main ob-
jective of the Department is survey, listing, documenta-
tion, protection, conservation, preservation and beautifi-
cation of ancient monuments of local importance worth
protecting in Delhi under the provisions of DAHMSAR
Act 2004 other than those of national importance pro-
tected and maintained by the Archaeological Survey of
India, Government of India; setting up of archaeological
museum showcasing archaeological explorations and ex-
cavations etc. Special efforts are made to involve NGOS,
RWAs, PSUs and Corporate bodies in the maintenance
and upkeep of the monuments under the overall super-
vision of the Department of Archaeology and develop
them as tourist spots.
Category Number
Administrative Structures2
Forts and Palaces 1
Institutional Structures 2
Memorial Structures 5
Public Structures 3
Religious Structures 1
Residential Structures 4
Website: http://artandculture.delhigovt.nic.in/
Funding and Sustenance:
A sum of Rs. 575 lakhs under Revenue section and
Rs. 662 lakhs under Capital Section are allocated in
B.E. 2020-21.
Conservation Acts/ Policies:Fund Utilisation:
Delhi Ancient and Historical Monuments and Archaeo-
logical Sites and Remains Act - 2004
• Conservation and restoration
• Excavations
• Museums, Adopt a Monument
• Exhibitions, workshops, seminars
Conservation Works Done:
Department of Archaeology has completed two sets of
conservation of monuments conserving 33 monuments
and conservation of 3rd set of 18 monuments is in prog-
ress. In addition conservation work of Dara Shikoh Li-
brary Building at Kashmere Gate and conservation of
Sarai of Azim Ganj inside National Zoological Park are
in progress.
Mutiny Memorial at Northern Ridge, Bijri Khan’s Tomb,
Bara Lao Gumbad, Tomb at Lado Sarai, Tomb of Mohd.
Quli Khan, Turkman Gate, Gol Gumbad
Observations/ Analysis:
Very active department that has carried out several
works in association with bodies such as INTACH.
Best Practices:
Mapping of Heritage Sites A Research Project for NITI Aayog | 129
29. Jammu and Kashmir Directorate of Archives, Archaeology and Museums and Ladakh
Sector: Public; UTNo. of Heritage Structures under it: 57
Objective and Organisation Description: Subcategories:
The department is duty bound to identify and preserve
the rich cultural heritage of the State in different forms
like Archival Records, Archaeological Monuments and
Antiquities through its various establishments i.e., Archi-
val Repositories, Archaeology and State Museums.
Category Number
Administrative Structures2
Archaeological Sites 7
Archaeological Sites - Caves1
Forts and Palaces 20
Historic Gardens 1
Institutional Structures 1
Memorial Structures 3
Public Structures 1
Religious Structures 19
Water Structures and Water bodies2
Website: http://jkarchives.nic.in/archieve_con-
tact.htm
Conservation Acts/ Policies:Funding and Sustenance:
Ancient Monuments Preservation Act, Samvat 1977,
amendment in 2010
Conservation Works Done:Fund Utilisation:
• Restoration/ conservation of the state protected
monuments in a phased manner according to the
availability of funds and as per the requirement of
the monuments
• Regular survey, identification and excavation of ar-
chaeological sites
• Preserving archival records
• Digitization of records
Observations/ Analysis:Best Practices:
Requires Capacity Building 130 |Challenges faced in Heritage Management in India and Policy Imperatives
A.2.2 State Forest Departments
Most state forest departments possess historic built
heritage sites spread within the forest areas that need to
be mapped and recorded. Besides this several also have
forest resthouses and other such structure that can be
conserved and put to reuse for tourism. Some States
such as Uttarakhand are actively involved in promoting
forest rest houses for tourism. This mapping of cultural
heritage sites and possible reuse needs to be undertaken
by State Forest Departments all across India. The State
Forest Department of Sikkim has taken a benchmark
initiative of getting the first Mixed World Heritage Site
of Kanghchendzonga that includes both cultural and
natural values. It was involved in preparing the nomina-
tion dossier by engaging cultural heritage experts and,
is currently involved in managing the site for its cultural
as well as natural values. Considering the quantum of
cultural landscape in the country, it is important that
all State Forest Departments take similar initiatives to
preserve the built heritage along with the natural one in
their premise.
All State Forest Departments were approached for their
inventory of forest resthouses and other structures un-
der them, only five states responded. A separate search
was done and over 50+ structures were found.
Kalesar Forest Resthouse, Haryana; Source - INTACH Haryana Chapter A Research Project for NITI Aayog | 131
1. Gujarat Pavitra Yatradham Vikas Board
Sector: Public; State Government No. of Heritage Structures under it: 338
Objective and Organisation Description: Subcategories: NA
The Board was constituted first time in the year 1995.
This Board was associated with Gujarat Tourism Corpo-
ration Ltd. initially for four years and became indepen-
dent from the year 1999. This Board receives declared
proposals on small and big developmental work from the
relevant collector of six sacred religious places of Gov-
ernment namely Somnath, Ambaji, Girnar, Palitana, Da-
kor and Dwarka, approves them and undertaken them by
sanctioning financial assistance. Accordingly, the money
is allotted.
Category Number
Website: https://yatradham.gujarat.gov.in/Index
Funding and Sustenance:
Funding is through gifts, funds and donations.
Fund Utilisation:
• Maintenance of temples and development of ya-
tradhams
• District Tourism and Pilgrimage Development
• Basic developmental works like water, swearage
• Publications
• Research
• Exhibitions to promote activities of the Board
A.2.3 Religious Trusts
Palitana Temples, Bhavnagar; Source - yatradham.gujarat.gov.in 132 |Challenges faced in Heritage Management in India and Policy Imperatives
2. Karnataka Hindu religious Institutions and Charitable Endowments Department
Sector: Public; State Government No. of Heritage Structures under it: 34558
Objective and Organisation Description: Subcategories: NA
The Department was established in 1997 and the Man-
agement and Administration of the temples/Notified In-
stitutions of this State is carried out under the provisions
of Karnataka Hindu Religious Institutions and Charita-
ble Endowment ACT 1997 and Rules 2002.
Website: https://temples.karnataka.gov.in/en-
glish
Funding and Sustenance:
Budget Documents in Kannada.
Conservation Acts/ Policies:Fund Utilisation:
The Hindu Religious Institutions and Charitable Endow-
ments Act 1997
• Development/Renovation of Religious Institutions
• Development of Dilapidated notified Institutions
• Basic Infrastructure and amenities like Providing of
Food and Accommodation to the Pilgrims visiting
Notified Institutions
• Basic Facilities and Infrastructure like Drinking Wa-
ter facility, Toilets and Bathrooms for Pilgrims
• Financial Assistance to pilgrims
• Maintenance of Movable and Immovable properties
and Protection
• Removal of Encroachments
Temples of Karnataka; Source - temples.karnataka.gov.in A Research Project for NITI Aayog | 133
3. Religious Trusts and Endowments, Madhya Pradesh
Sector: Public; State Government No. of Heritage Structures under it: 12,000
Objective and Organisation Description: Subcategories:
Website not accessible.Category Number
Website: http://www.religioustrust.mp.gov.in/
Conservation Acts/ Policies:Funding and Sustenance:
Conservation Works Done:Fund Utilisation:
Observations/ Analysis:Best Practices:
No listings of temples available
4. Odisha Hindu Religious Endowment
Sector: Public; State Government No. of Heritage Structures under it: 18042
Objective and Organisation Description: Subcategories:
The Trust was formed in 1951 in order to assume more
effective control over the religious institutions under the
Orissa Hindu Religious Endowments Act, 1951 with its
amending Act in 1954.
The objective is to provide for the better administration
and governance of Hindu Religious Institutions and
Endowments situated in the State of Odisha as per the
provisions of Orissa Hindu Religious Endowments Act,
1951 and Orissa Hindu Religious Endowments Rules,
1959 (hereinafter called O.H.R.E. Act and Rules).
Category Number
Temples17641
Maths359
Debottars42
Website: https://hinduendowments.odisha.gov.
in/
Funding and Sustenance:
Fund Utilisation:
Conservation Acts/ Policies:• Safety and security of properties
• Management of Niti and festivals
• Management and maintenance of properties
Orissa Hindu Religious Endowments Act, 1951
Observations/ Analysis:
No listings of temples available 134 |Challenges faced in Heritage Management in India and Policy Imperatives
5. Rajasthan Devasthan Department
Sector: Public; State Government No. of Structures under it: 59260
Objective and Organisation Description: Subcategories:
The department is for the preservation and promotion
of temple culture, for the management and smooth op-
eration of temples, monasteries, dharamshalas etc.
In order to make the management of culture and institu-
tions dynamic, the Department of Devasthan was linked
with tourism, art and culture. For various development
works, works were also done through other departments,
among which Forest Department, Archeology Depart-
ment, Rural and Urban bodies are the heads.
Category Number
State Direct Charge 365
State Self Dependent Class187
State Delivery Class 305
State Aided9935
Annuity Received 48466
Under Mandal Act 2
Out of the 59,260 a majority (almost 70%) of temples
would be of heritage value.
Website: https://devasthan.rajasthan.gov.in/
Conservation Acts/ Policies:Funding and Sustenance:
The Religious Endowments Act, 1863
The Charitable Endowments Act, 1890
The Indian Trusts Act, 1882
The Charitable and Religious Trusts Act, 1920
Rajasthan Religious Buildings and Sites Act - 1954
A total of 21.15 crores were allotted to the Depart-
ment out of which 2.6 crores were assigned for the
restoration and repair of the temples. Only 42.44
lakhs were utilized from the allotted amount of 2.6
crores for restoration.
Conservation Works Done:Fund Utilisation:
• Brahma Temple, Ajmer 2017
• Peepaji Dham, Jhalawar 2016
• Dwarka Dheesh Temple 2016
• Nagnechi Temple, Bikaner 2016
• Restoration, repair and development of temples
• Senior Citizens Pilgrimage Scheme and Moksha Ka-
lash Scheme
• Kailash Mansarovar Pilgrimage Scheme
• Temple Trust Support Scheme
Observations/ Analysis:Best Practices:
A complete listing of structures with location and images
is not available with the Department.
Website has complete list with names of the temples. A Research Project for NITI Aayog | 135
6. Ecclesiastical Affairs Department; Government of Sikkim
Sector: Public; State Government No. of Heritage Structures under it: 896
Objective and Organisation Description: Subcategories:
The Ecclesiastical Affairs Department is one of the old-
est and most respected Departments of the State. The
Department controls over the external affairs of the
Monasteries, Mandirs and all other religious institutions
in the State. The Department does not interfere in the
internal affairs/ functioning of the religious institutions
and organizations, particularly matters relating to reli-
gious protocols and ritual traditions. Apart from the ad-
ministration, the department aims to look after the matter
for protection and preservation of Sacred Hot Springs,
Caves, Holy Lakes and places of pilgrimage in Sikkim.
Category Number
Gonpas/ Monasteries 111
Nyingmapa Sect Monasteries80
Kadgyupa Sect Monasteries28
Manilakhangs163
Small Buddhist Temples 38
Monasteries outside Sikkim2
Hindu Mandirs318
Churches7
Mosques2
Conservation Acts/ Policies:Funding and Sustenance:
The Places of Worship (Special Provisions) Act, 1991
Notification: Maintenance of Religious Institutions, 1998
Notification: Grants for Religious Institutions, 2010
In 2011-12, Rs. 12,26,75,000 was sanctioned to more
than 540 no.s of different religious institutions.
In 2011-12 1 Cr was sanctioned to Ringhim Gonpa in
North Sikkim and 5 lakhs each to Enchey, Pemayang-
tse, Tashiding Dubdi and Tholung Gonpas for imme-
diate restoration of their damaged religious statues.
Conservation Works Done:
Ringhim Gonpa in North Sikkim and restoration of
the damaged religious statues in Enchey, Pemayangtse,
Tashiding Dubdi and Tholung Gonpas.
Website: http://www.sikkimeccl.gov.in/ Fund Utilisation:
Observations/ Analysis:• New construction
• Repairs and renovation
• Upgradation
•Stipend for Traditional Arts School studen
The annual reports have been not published online since
2012. 136 |Challenges faced in Heritage Management in India and Policy Imperatives
7. Tamil Nadu Hindu Religious and Cultural Endowments Department
Sector: Public; State Government No. of Heritage Structures under it: 44121
Objective and Organisation Description: Subcategories:
The department was established in 1960 in an attempt
to coordinate the temple administration in order to pre-
serve the temples and their cultural movements that have
remained the traditional contacts and historical relics
of the ancestral interior. Department of Hindu Reli-
gious Affairs under the Tamil Nadu Hindu Religious and
Charitable Gifts Act (Amendment Act 39/1996) 1959 to
properly maintain, protect and supervise the administra-
tion of Hindu religious institutions
It carries on various functions such as public administra-
tion, staffing, management of movable and immovable
property of religious institutions, restitution, litigation,
auditing of the Department of Hindu Religious Affairs.
Category Number
Temples41,176
Jain temples19
Monks309
Temples associated with the mon-
astery
492
Trusts897
Specific trusts 658
Apart from this there are 4980 temples which are
more than 100 years old that are not included in the
listing.
Website: https://www.tn.gov.in/department/32
Funding and Sustenance:
• Donations from the public
• Temples own funds
• Transfer fund
• Government subsidy
• Welfare Fund
• Temple Development Fund
• Rural Temples Restoration Fund
• Temple Restoration and Charity Fund
• Financial Commission Grant
• Renovation fund for temples located in Adi-
thravidar and tribal areas
• Tourism Fund
• Temple land incomes– Rents
In the past nine years, the estimates for conservation
through donations for a value of Rs.37.73 crore in
Conservation Acts/ Policies:
• HRCE Act and Rules 1959
The 1951 Act was repealed by the present Tamil Nadu
Hindu Religious and Charitable Endowments Act, 1959
(Act 22 of 1959) which created the Hindu Religious and
Charitable Endowments Department under the control
and superintendence of the Commissioner, HRCE De-
partment.
• Policy Note
• Conservation Manual, Parts 1, 2 and 3
Conservation Works Done:
Kumbabisekam –
2011-2020 11,448 temples
2019-20 Conservation work in 373 temples;
Renovation and repair of temple water tanks and rainwa. A Research Project for NITI Aayog | 137
7. Tamil Nadu Hindu Religious and Cultural Endowments Department
ter harvesting –
2011-20 867 temple tanks
2019-20 20 temple tanks,
May-June 2014 1004 temple tanks were revamped for
rainwater harvesting;
Gold and silver Chariots, Wooden Chariot Maintenance
589 temples were sanctioned. In 2019-2020, up to
February, estimates for a value of Rs.51.64 lakh were
sanctioned to carry out 4 works in 4 temples through
donations.
Fund Utilisation:
Observations/ Analysis:Basic Facilities Provisions:
• Renovation and repair of temples, water
tanks and rainwater harvesting
• Maintenance, protection and security
Worship (Archana), Grace Ceremony of saints, Spe-
cial worships and public feast
• Services - Drinking water, Toilets, etc.
Publications:
• History & Mythology, Tamil monthly maga-
zines, Tourist Guides
• Agama texts and Other books in Tamil
Temple Administrations:
• Educational Institutions
• Social Welfare Organisations
A complete listing of structures with location and images
is not available with the Department.
Meenakshi Amman Temple, Madurai, Tamil Nadu; Source - DRONAH
(Contd.) 138 |Challenges faced in Heritage Management in India and Policy Imperatives
8. Endowments Department, Government of Telangana
Sector: Public; State Government No. of Heritage Structures under it: 47
Objective and Organisation Description: Subcategories:
Endowments Department is advisory to Government
on all religious matters. It concentrates on administra-
tion and governance of all the public charitable institu-
tions and endowments, whether registered or not, other
than Wakfs governed by the provisions of the Wakfs Act,
1954, Administration of all Hindu public religious insti-
tutions and endowments whether registered or not in ac-
cordance with the provisions of the Act etc.
Website: https://endowments.ts.nic.in/
Funding and Sustenance:
Fund Utilisation:
Providing financial aid under the scheme of Com-
mon Good Fund for renovation and reconstruction
of religious institutions and constructions of kaly-
anamandapams, establishment and maintenance of
Vedapatashalas and Schools for training in Archakat-
vam, Adhyapakatwam, Vedaparayanikatwam, silpam,
vaidyam or like services and Dhoopa Deepa Naivedy-
am to needy institutions.
Yadadgirigutta Temple, Telangana; Source - deccanchronicle A Research Project for NITI Aayog | 139
C. Institutions and NGOs
This section briefly covers the institutions in India
which offer courses or have labs/ libraries/ resources
in heritage conservation, heritage management and ar-
chaeology.
1. Indian Institute of Heritage, Noida
The Centre said that the institute would be set up as a
Deemed to be University. For this purpose, Pt Deen-
dayal Upadhyaya Institute of Archaeology, New Del-
hi-based School of Archival Studies under National Ar-
chives of India, Ministry of Culture’s National Museum
Institute of History of Art, Conservation and Museol-
ogy, Lucknow-based National Research Laboratory for
Conservation of Cultural Property and the New Del-
hi-based Academic Wing of Indira Gandhi National
Centre for the Arts would be integrated. All of these
institutions would become the various schools under
the Deemed to be University.
2. Wildlife Institute of India, Dehradun – Masters
Course in Heritage Conservation and Management
The course is interdisciplinary in nature and advances
sustainability studies through the prism of heritage. This
includes theoretical and methodological integration of
ecological sciences, social sciences and humanities, and
heritage studies. It entails taught courses, internship and
dissertation involving experiential and decolonial peda-
gogy. Thematic workshops and field engagement with
world heritage sites will be key highlights.
3. Deccan College Post Graduate and Research In-
stitute, Pune - Diploma in Heritage Sites Manage-
ment and Scientific Conservation
4. Deccan College, Pune – M.A and PhD in An-
cient Indian History, Culture and Archaeology
5. National Museum Institute, New Delhi - MA
and PhD programs in Conservation
The MA course provides students a combination of
theoretical knowledge and practical training to prepare
for professional career in conservation of art and cul-
tural heritage. The program encompasses art-historical,
archaeological, curatorial, and scientific studies of the
works of art. The coursework combines a variety of
teaching and training methodologies including lectures,
seminars, essays, reviews, project works and hands-on
practical learning to develop essential skills in critical
thinking, decision making and communication, assess-
ment and ethical conservation treatment of art and cul-
tural heritage.
The students registered for the PhD program gain a
deeper understanding of a subject area and develop a
capacity for independent, focused and systematic ap-
proach to learning and to discover best practices, da-
ta-driven insights, innovative solutions and latest trends
to strengthen professional competence.
6. Ahmedabad University – Masters of Manage-
ment Studies in Heritage Management
7. Maharaja Sayajirao University of Baroda – Bach- 140 |Challenges faced in Heritage Management in India and Policy Imperatives
elor and Masters in Archaeology
8. CEPT University, Ahmedabad – Masters in Con-
servation and Regeneration
9. School of Planning and Architecture, New Delhi
– M.Arch (Architectural Conservation)
10. School of Planning and Architecture, Bhopal –
M.Arch (Architectural Conservation
11. Singhad College of Architecture, Pune - M.Arch
(Architectural Conservation)
12. KRVIA, Mumbai – Masters in Architectural and
Urban Conservation
13. Banaras Hindu University, Department of
Ancient Indian History Culture and Archaeology
– M.A in Ancient Indian History, Culture and Ar-
chaeology, Advanced P.G. Diploma in Archaeology
Arts Faculty, Maharaja Sayajirao University of Baroda; Source - msubaroda.ac.in A Research Project for NITI Aayog | 141
14. Visva-Bharti University, Santiniketan – B.A in
Ancient History, Culture and Archaeology
15. St. Xavier’s College, Mumbai – M.A. in Ancient
India History, Culture and Archaeology
16. Delhi Institute of Heritage Research and Man-
agement – Masters in Archaeology and Heritage
Management and Masters in Conservation, Pres-
ervation and Heritage Management
17. University of Madras – M.A., M.Phil and Ph.D
in Ancient History and Archaeology
18. University of Kerala – M.Phil in Archaeology
19. University of Calcutta – M.A. and Ph.D in Ar-
chaeology
20. University of Mysore – M.A. in Ancient History
and Archaeology and Ph.D
21. Panjab University – M.A, M.Phil and Ph.D in
Ancient Indian History, Culture and Archaeology
22. Birbal Sahni Institute of Paleobotany and AnSI
23. National Research Laboratory for
Conservation of Cultural Property
24. American Instiitute of Indian Studies, Guru-
gram
25. French Institute of Pondicherry
26. National Institute of Oceanography, Goa
27. Srishti Institute, Bengaluru
28. Intach Heritage Academy, New Delhi
29. IIT Madras NCHS 142 |Challenges faced in Heritage Management in India and Policy Imperatives
NGOs
This section has some of the major national and re-
gional NGOs working in the field of built heritage con-
servation. NGOs working in built heritage sector and
registered with NITI Aayog have also been mentioned
later. 170 such NGOs have been listed state-wise, how-
ever, there is a need to list all such organisations from
the NITI Aayog’s database which has over 122287
NGOs enrolled.
1. Aga Khan Trust for Culture (AKTC)
2. Bihar Virasat Samiti
3. Deccan Heritage Foundation
4. Digital Empowerment Foundation
5. DRONAH Foundation
6. Indian Heritage Cities Network Foundation
7. India Lost and Found (ILF)
8. Indian National Trust for Art and Cultural Heritage
(INTACH)
9. Indian Trust for Rural Heritage and Development
(ITRHD)
10. International Council on Monuments and Sites
(ICOMOS) India
11. Jaipur Virasat Foundation
12.Madras Craft Foundation
13. Maharaja Sawai Man Singh II (MSMS) Museum, Jai-
pur
14. Mehrangarh Museum Trust
15. Narotam Sekhsariia Foundation - Indian Heritage
Society
16. Rajkot Rajya Foundation
17. REACH Foundation
18. Sahapedia
19. TATA Trusts, Arts and Culture Department
20. The Maharana of Mewar Charitable Foundation
(MMCF), Udaipur
21. The Society for Promotion of Indian Classical Mu-
sic and Culture Amongst Youth (SPIC MACAY)
22. World Monuments Fund (WMF) India A Research Project for NITI Aayog | 143
State-wise list of NGOs listed with NITI Aayog’s NGO
Darpan working in the field of built heritage and con-
servation. The parentheses show the total number of
NGOs per state.
Andaman And Nicobar Islands
(124)
1. Anandodhara
2. Andaman Sanskriti Parishad
3. Arpan
4. Island Development Organization
5. Kasheesh
Andhra Pradesh (4188)
1. Center For Green Strategy Research and Implemen-
tation
2. Doctor A P J Abdul Kalam Youth Welfare Associ-
ation
3. Green Field Rural Development Society
Arunachal Pradesh (412)
1. Akarum Society for Eco Tourism and Wildlife Con-
servation
2. Arunachal Pradesh Bamboo Resources and Develop-
ment Agency (Apbrda)
3. Arunachal Pradesh Tribal Research and Skill Devel-
opment Society
4. Boda Village Forest Management Committee
5. Buddhist Culture Preservation Society Bomdila
6. Centre For Buddhist Cultural Studies
7. Changkiu Bagang Vfmc
8. District Horticulture and Agriculture Development
Cooperative Society
9. Environment Protection Group of Arunachal
10. Future Vision
11. Gorsum Stupa Culture Centre
12. Gyang Gon Welfare Association
13. Hayang Memorial Agro Industry and Educational
Trust
14. Himalaya Buddhist Culture Society
15. Idu Mishmi Cultural and Literary Society
16. Indigenous Tribal Art and Culture Enlighten Soci-
ety
17. Kalaktang Nyithilling Buddhist Cultural Society
18. Lhomon Culture Development Society
19. Mechukha Eco-Toursim and Conservation Society
20. Mon Palpung Jangchub Choekhof Ling Kagyu So-
ciety
21. Monyul Buddhist Culture Preservation Society
22. Monyul Traditional Culture Development Society
23. North East Vajarayana Buddhist Cultural Associa-
tion
24. Padmapa Fellowship Kalaktang
25. Pangchen Lakhar Community Conserved Area
26. Pema Mani Charitable Trust
27. Research Institute of Worlds Ancient Traditions
Cultures and Heritage
28. Rigdzin Norbu Choeling Gonpa
29. Rural Development and Heritage Society
30. Samten Choeling Educational and Cultural Preser-
vation Society
31. Shosi Namchar Bagang Village Forest Management
Committee
32. Society For Education and Environmental Devel-
opment 144 |Challenges faced in Heritage Management in India and Policy Imperatives
33. Takio Tahi Grove Foundation
34. Tarak Women Welfare Society
35. Thegtse Meditation Culture Centre
36. Thembang Bapu Community Conserved Area Man-
agement Committee
37. Thembang Mpcs Ltd
38. Thupsang Dhargyelling Himalayan Culture and Tra-
dition Preservation Society
39. Trangpodar Welfare Society
40. Tribal Welfare Development Society
41. Tsun Gon Thoog Jee Ling Society
42. Tukpen Culture Foundation
43. Zangdokpalri Foundation for Greater Compassion
Assam (1908)
1. Aesthetic
2. Anubhuti Gosthi
3. Balipara Tract and Frontier Foundation
4. Centre For Folklore Studies
5. Conservation Initiatives
6. Dharmachakra Budha Bihar
7. Federation In North Eastern Shgs Towards Society
8. Gita Mission
9. Hatipara Udaia Samaj Kalyan Samity and Puthibharal
10. Heritage Art and Design
11. Indigenous
12. Institution For Culture and Rural Development
13. Integrated Development Association
14. Janambhumi Pragati Samaj
15. Laksha
16. North East Heritage Foundation
17. North East India Buddhist Sangha Council
18. Padmashree Dr Robin Banerjee Trust
19. Pandu Buddhist Association
20. Pfi Foundation
21. Satkara
22. Society For Cultural Heritage for The North East
India
23. Srimanta Sankardev Krishti Bikash Kendra
24. Vivekananda Kendra Institute of Culture
25. Zeal Thrill Friendship Group
Bihar (3797)
1. Association For Buddhist Circuit Development
2. Bodhisatva Society
3. Canvas
4. Combodian Buddhist Monastery
5. Ekjut
6 Foundation For Art Culture Ethics and Science
7. Gautam Budha Charitable Trust
8. Gramin Lok Seva
9. Health And Educational Society, Ara
10. Ieed
11. Lichhwi
12. Maithili Sahitya Sansthan
13. Manav Dharmyog Trust
14. Mithila Kala Vikas Samiti
15. Mithome
16. Ngagyur Kama Tradition Preserve Association
17. Prabhat
18. Sabera Kala Kendra
19. Sakya Phuntsok Phodrang Foundation
20. Samaji Tanzeem Welfare Trust
21. Shakuntala Sewa Sadan
22. Sootradhar
23. Sub Himalayan Research Institute Trust A Research Project for NITI Aayog | 145
Chandigarh (191)
1. Alliance Francaise Le Corbusier De Chandigarh
2. Society For Archaeological and Anthropological Re-
search
3. Sri Sai Cultural Development Society
Chhattisgarh (1623)
Dadra And Nagar Haveli and Dam -
an And Diu (43)
None
Delhi (8498)
Goa (225)
1. Charles Correa Foundation
2. Goa For Giving Trust
3. Museum Of Christian Art Goa
Gujarat (5554)
Haryana (2469)
Himachal Pradesh (664)
1. Asara
2. Bhavya Jyoti
3. Buddhist Cultural and Welfare Society of Kolong
Gonpa
4. Buddhist Cultural Society of Key Gompa
5. Budhist Cultural and Religious Society Spiti Hansa
6. Dhakpo Shedrup Ling Monastic Cultural Society
7. Friends Welfare Association
8. Garja Khandoling Budhist Sanskriti Sabha
9. Heritage
10. Himalayan Jan Kalyan Sanskriti Manch
11. Himtaru Prakashan Samiti
12. Khampagar Monastic Charitable Trust
13. Khensur Lobsang Palden Yangsit Tsokchung and
Bhuddhist Culture Socciety
14. Kinnaur Heritage Foundation
15. Lalung Serkhang Buddhist Culture Chhomo Society
16. Lok Jyoti Bauddh Vihar
17. Sapan Foundation Society
18. Social Action for Harmonious and Yeomen Out
Look Generation
19. The Bodh Vidya Sanrakshan Sabha
20. The Drong Buddhist Cultural Party
21. Yarket Youth Foundation
22. Young Drukpa Association Garsha
Jammu & Kashmir (1318)
1. Abhinaya Kala Manch
2. Alamdar Bhagat Theatre
3. Alamdar Sofiyana Theatre
4. Bhartiya Lok Sangeet Kala Santhan
5. Budshah Cultural Institute
Jharkhand (1999)
Karnataka (6302)
Kerala (3348) 146 |Challenges faced in Heritage Management in India and Policy Imperatives
Ladakh (150)
1. All Ladakh Gonpa Society
2. Chamba Choskore Padmaling Association
3. Chumur Cultural and Welfare Society
4. Cultural Preservation and Promotion Society Achi-
nathang
5. Culture Preservation Society Kukshow Kargil
6. Darchik Temple Association
7. Deskid Cultural and Welfare Society
8. Galdan Targyun Tsogspa
9. Gonpa Sabha Garkon
10. Himalayan Cultural Heritage Foundation
11. Lamauru Cultural and Welfare Society
12. Leh Old Town Initiative
13. LEHO-Ladalkh Environment and Health Organi-
sation
14. Lekir Cultural and Welfare Society Lekir Gonpa La-
dakh
15. Preservation Of Aryan Culture and Educational
Society
16. Tangyar Cultural and Welfare Society
17. Tashi Gyaphel Cultural and Welfare Society
Lakshadweep (2)
Madhya Pradesh (5659)
Maharashtra (15050)
Manipur (2214)
Meghalaya (268)
1. Khadi And Multi Village Industrial Organisation
2. Khasi Cultural and Social Service Society
3. North East Data Bank
Mizoram (215)
1. Mizo Heritage
Nagaland (379)
1. Abiogenesis Society
2. Chakhesang Women Welfare Society
3. Chophi Welfare Society
4. Green Creations Etshe Society
5. Indigenous Cultural Society
Orissa (3344)
Puducherry (267)
1. National Heritage Trust
Punjab (1444)
Rajasthan (4262)
Sikkim (101)
1. Denzong Culture and Heritage Foundation
2. Khangchendzonga Conservation Committee
3. Lamo Teng Charitable Trust
4. M/S Himalayan Heritage Research and Development A Research Project for NITI Aayog | 147
Society
5. Sikkim Newar Guthi
6. Thubten Gatsal Ling Sumin Gumpa Managing Com-
mittee
Tamil Nadu (7887)
Telangana (2547)
Tripura (416)
1. Dhamma Dipa Foundation
2. Growing Seed
3. Ranglong Youth Association
4. Sampari Hukumu Bodol
5. Socio Cultural Society of Bishnupriya Manipuri
6. Young Kaipeng Association
Uttar Pradesh (15727)
Uttarakhand (1652)
West Bengal (8459)
India has a large number of institutions imparting ed-
ucation in heritage conservation and management. It
also has several active NGOs at central, state and local
levels who are actively working on listing, conserving
and promoting India’s built heritage though outreach
programmes. It is important to involve these institu-
tions and NGOs more actively with the government
organisations for capacity building in heritage conser-
vation and management through collaborative MoUS,
outreach activities and training programmes. 148 |Challenges faced in Heritage Management in India and Policy Imperatives A Research Project for NITI Aayog | 149
4
Heritage Legislation 150 |Challenges faced in Heritage Management in India and Policy Imperatives A Research Project for NITI Aayog | 151
“Any section of the citizens residing in the territory of India or any
part thereof having a distinct language, script or culture of its own
shall have the right to conserve the same”
Article 29 of the Constitution
“It shall be the duty of the State to protect the various monuments,
objects, places which are of artistic or historic importance from
any spoliation, disfigurement, destruction, removal, disposal or ex-
port which are declared by or are declared by Parliament to be of
national importance”
Article 49 of the Constitution
“It is the fundamental duty of every citizen of India to protect and
preserve the rich heritage of our country.”
Article 51A(f) of the Constitution
“To protect and preserve the natural environment which includes
forests, wildlife, lakes, rivers and to have the feeling of compassion
towards them.”
Sanchi Stupa Torana; Source -
DRONAH
Separator Image: Jal Mahal, Jaipur;
Source - JMC 152 |Challenges faced in Heritage Management in India and Policy Imperatives
Article 51A(g) of the Constitution
The Indian Constitution has several articles referring
to the care, conservation and protection of India’s built
cultural heritage. Besides this, India is signatory to sev-
eral international cultural conventions with UNESCO
and, the country also has a number of Charters, Poli-
cies, Acts, Rules and Guidelines for conservation of its
heritage at Central, State and Local level.
This chapter outlines all existing heritage legislation in
the country at various levels and summarises the prem-
ise and application of each heritage-related act. Con-
ventions, charters and policies along with the Central
Acts by ASI, MoEFCC, MoHUA, State Acts by De-
partment of Culture and Archaeology, Department
of Town Planning and Forest, Municipal Corporation
Acts, Cantonment Act, regulations, byelaws and man-
uals related to heritage at all levels are included in this
chapter. Knowing all existing acts and regulations is es-
sential since these are the tools to enforce heritage leg-
islation and ensure protection of India’s built heritage.
A. International and
National Conventions, Charters
and Policies
There are several conventions, charters and policies at
several levels which are applicable for the protection of
heritage structures in India. These are listed and men-
tioned below in brief.
A.1 International
(Applicable in India)
OrganisationCharter/
Convention/ Policy
Brief
UNESCO The World Heritage Con-
vention, 1972 signed by In-
dia in 1977
The Convention sets out the duties of States Parties in identifying poten-
tial sites and their role in protecting and preserving them. By signing the
Convention, each country pledges to conserve not only the World Heritage
sites situated on its territory, but also to protect its national heritage. The
States Parties are encouraged to integrate the protection of the cultural and
natural heritage into regional planning programmes, set up staff and ser-
vices at their sites, undertake scientific and technical conservation research
and adopt measures which give this heritage a function in the day-to-day
life of the community.
It explains how the World Heritage Fund is to be used and managed and
under what conditions international financial assistance may be provided.
The Convention stipulates the obligation of States Parties to report reg-
ularly to the World Heritage Committee on the state of conservation of
their World Heritage properties. These reports are crucial to the work of
the Committee as they enable it to assess the conditions of the sites, decide A Research Project for NITI Aayog | 153
OrganisationCharter/
Convention/ Policy
Brief
UNESCOon specific programme needs and resolve recurrent problems. It also en-
courages States Parties to strengthen the appreciation of the public for
World Heritage properties and to enhance their protection through educa-
tional and information programmes.
Recommendations on the
Historic Urban Landscape,
2011
It is an additional tool to integrate policies and practices of conservation
of the built environment into the wider goals of urban development in
respect of the inherited values and traditions of different cultural contexts.
This tool, which is a “soft-law” is to be implemented by Member States
on a voluntary basis. In order to facilitate implementation, the UNESCO
General Conference recommended that Member States take the appro-
priate steps to: adapt this new instrument to their specific contexts; dis-
seminate it widely across their national territories; facilitate implementation
through formulation and adoption of supporting policies; and to monitor
its impact on the conservation and management of historic cities.
It further recommended that Member States and relevant local authorities
identify within their specific contexts the critical steps to implement the
Historic Urban Landscape approach, which may include the following:
-To undertake comprehensive surveys and mapping of a city’s natural, cul-
tural and human resources;
-To reach consensus using participatory planning and stakeholder consul-
tations on what values to protect for transmission to future generations
and to determine the attributes that carry these values;
-To assess vulnerability of these attributes to socio-economic stresses and
impacts of climate change;
To integrate urban heritage values and their vulnerability status into a wider
framework of city development, which shall provide indications of areas
of heritage sensitivity that require careful attention to planning, design and
implementation of development projects;
-To prioritize actions for conservation and development;
-To establish the appropriate partnerships and local management frame-
works for each of the identified projects for conservation and develop-
ment, as well as to develop mechanisms for the coordination of the various
activities between different actors, both public and private. 154 |Challenges faced in Heritage Management in India and Policy Imperatives
Other International Conventions that are relevant to
the protection and conservation of art and cultural her-
itage and to which India is a signatory are:
- Convention on the Protection and Promotion of the
Diversity of Cultural Expressions. Paris, 20 October
2005
- Convention for the Safeguarding of the Intangible
Cultural Heritage. Paris, 17 October 2003.
- Convention on the Means of Prohibiting and Prevent-
ing the Illicit Import, Export and Transfer of Owner-
ship of Cultural Property. Paris, 14 November 1970.
- Protocol to the Convention for the Protection of
Cultural Property in the Event of Armed Conflict. The
Hague, 14 May 1954.
- Convention for the Protection of Cultural Property
in the Event of Armed Conflict with Regulations for
the Execution of the Convention. The Hague, 14 May
1954.
While India is not a signatory to some other conven-
tions, a relevant one to consider for future will be the
“Convention on the Protection of Underwater Cultural
Heritage (2001)”.
OrganisationCharter/
Convention/ Policy
Brief
ICOMOS - Ad-
visory Body to
UNESCO
International Charter for
the Conservation and Res-
toration of Monuments
and Sites (The Venice
Charter) - 1964
The Venice Charter, adopted by ICOMOS in 1965, codifies internation-
ally accepted standards of conservation practice relating to architecture
and sites. It sets forth principles of conservation based on the concept of
authenticity and the importance of maintaining the historical and physical
context of a site or building. The Venice Charter states that monuments
are to be conserved not only as works of art but also as historical evidence.
It also sets down the principles of preservation, which relate to restoration
of buildings with work from different periods.
Burra Charter – 1979,
1999, 2013
The Burra Charter primarily drafted by ICOMOS Australia offers a frame-
work for heritage management in which multiple - sometimes conflicting
- heritage and other values can be understood and explicitly addressed.
The charter’s success stems from its flexibility in accommodating evolving
notions of heritage, changing economic and political circumstances, and
vastly different types of place. The Burra Charter has been amended in
1999 and 2013 in response to developing practice and awareness of intan-
gible attributes and the legitimate expectations of associated communities.
Historic Gardens (The
Florence Charter) - 1981
This charter specifically addresses the conservation of gardens, parks, and
commemorative landscapes purposely designed and constructed of organ- A Research Project for NITI Aayog | 155
OrganisationCharter/
Convention/ Policy
Brief
ICOMOS - Ad-
visory Body to
UNESCO
-ic and inorganic materials. Historic garden maintenance, conservation,
restoration, reconstruction, use, legal protection, and administrative stew-
ardship are specifically outlined in this charter. The Charter was adopted
in 1982 as an addendum to the Venice Charter, addressing the needs of a
specific class of cultural property.
Charter for the Conserva-
tion of Historic Towns and
Urban Areas (The Wash-
ington Charter) - 1987
This Charter, adopted by the ICOMOS General Assembly in 1987, estab-
lishes the principles and guidelines for the protection and conservation
of historic towns. The Charter seeks to complement the Venice Charter,
whose emphasis is on the individual monument. It addresses such issues as:
integration of preservation objectives into planning policies;
qualities of historic towns that should be preserved;
participation of residents in the preservation process; and the social and
economic aspects of historic town preservation.
Charter for the Protection
and Management of the
Archaeological Heritage -
1990
Charter for the Protection and Management of the Archaeological Her-
itage (1990) The ICAHM Charter, inspired by the success of the Venice
Charter, was created in response to the increasing threats to archaeological
sites worldwide, especially from looting and land development.
Charter on the Protection
and Management of the
Underwater Cultural Heri-
tage - 1996
The Charter addresses the conservation needs of underwater cultural prop-
erty; it is intended to supplement the ICOMOS Charter for the Protection
and Management of Archaeological Heritage of 1990. The Charter out-
lines fundamental principles for the co-servation of underwater heritage
and discusses issues of funding, research objectives, qualifications of the
team members, investigation, documentation, material conservation, man-
agement and maintenance of the site, and dissemination of information
about underwater heritage. Preservation in situ is given first preference.
The Charter stresses that archaeological material must be treated during
the investigation as well as during transit and over the long term. It en-
courages international cooperation and exchange of specialists to facili-
tate and improve research and investigations of the underwater heritage. It
also encourages dissemination of information to the public regarding the
significance of underwater heritage and coordination and communication
with concerned communities regarding proposed investigations. 156 |Challenges faced in Heritage Management in India and Policy Imperatives
OrganisationCharter/
Convention/ Policy
Brief
ICOMOS - Ad-
visory Body to
UNESCO
International Cultural
Tourism Charter - Man-
aging Tourism at Places
of Heritage Significance -
1999
The objectives of this charter are to promote and manage tourism in ways
that respect and enhance the heritage and living cultures of the host com-
munities, and to encourage a dialogue between conservation interests and
the tourism industry. It outlines six principles of cultural tourism: conser-
vation should provide well-managed opportunities for tourists and mem-
bers of the host community to experience and understand the local heri-
tage and culture at first hand; the relationship between heritage places and
tourism is dynamic and should be managed in a sustainable way for present
and future generations;
conservation and tourism planning should create a visitor experience that
is enjoyable, respectful, and educational;
host communities and indigenous people should be involved in planning
for conservation and tourism;
tourism and conservation activities should benefit the host community, im-
proving development and encouraging local employment;
tourism programs should protect and enhance natural and cultural heritage
characteristics.
Charter on the Built Ver-
nacular Heritage - 1999
Recognizing that the forces of globalization have made vernacular archi-
tecture - traditional and natural community housing - extremely vulnerable,
this charter on the built vernacular heritage outlines issues and principles
for conservation. In addition, it sets forth guidelines for conservation prac-
tice, including research and documentation, preserving traditional craft and
building skills, adaptive re-use, and the need for training to educate conser-
vators and communities.
Charter for the Interpre-
tation and Presentation
of Cultural Heritage Sites
2008
The purpose of this Charter is to define the basic principles of Interpre-
tation and Presentation as essential components of heritage conservation
efforts and as a means of enhancing public appreciation and understanding
of cultural heritage sites.
ICOMOS Charter on Cul-
tural Routes 2008
Objectives of the Charter
• To establish the basic principles and methods of research specific to the
category of Cultural Route as they relate to other previously established
and studied categories of cultural heritage assets.
• To propose the basic mechanisms for the development of knowledge
about, evaluation, protection, preservation, management and conservation A Research Project for NITI Aayog | 157
OrganisationCharter/
Convention/ Policy
Brief
ICOMOS - Ad-
visory Body to
UNESCO
of Cultural Routes.
• To define the basic guidelines, principles and criteria for correct use of
Cultural Routes as resources for sustainable social and economic develop-
ment, respecting their authenticity and integrity, appropriate preservation
and historical significance.
• To establish the basis for national and international cooperation that will
be essential for undertaking research, conservation, and development proj-
ects related to Cultural Routes
Joint ICOMOS – TICCIH
(International Scientific
Committee on Industrial
Heritage) Principles for the
Conservation of Industrial
Heritage 2011
Acknowledging the nature of the industrial heritage and the issues and
threats affecting it as a result of its relation to the contemporary economic,
legal, cultural, and environmental contexts, ICOMOS and TICCIH have
expanded their cooperation by adopting and promoting the dissemination
and use of the following Principles to assist in the documentation, protec-
tion, conservation and appreciation of industrial heritage as part of the
heritage of human societies around the World.
The Valletta Principles for
the Safeguarding and Man-
agement of Historic Cities,
Towns and Urban Areas -
2011
The Valletta Principles nominate ‘heritage as an essential resource, as part
of the urban ecosystem. This concept must be strictly respected in order
to ensure harmonious development of historic towns and their settings’.
The main objective is to propose principles and strategies applicable to
every intervention in historic towns and urban areas. These principles and
strategies are meant to safeguard the values of historic towns and their
settings, as well as their integration into the social, cultural and economic
life of our times.
These interventions must ensure respect for tangible and intangible heri-
tage values, as well as for the quality of life of inhabitants.
For the safeguarding of historic towns and urban areas and their settings, it
discusses: definitions; aspects of change and challenges; intervention crite-
ria; and proposals and strategies.
ICOMOS - IFLA Docu-
ment on Historic Urban
Public Parks 2017
Historic urban public parks are an essential and inalienable part of the
traditions and plans of many towns and settlements. It is the main purpose
of this document to emphasize that they be preserved as historic sites for
the use and enjoyment of present and future generations.
Historic urban public parks were created or made accessible for the well-be-
ing of all persons. They have for too long been regarded as ‘reserve groun- 158 |Challenges faced in Heritage Management in India and Policy Imperatives
OrganisationCharter/
Convention/ Policy
Brief
ICOMOS - Ad-
visory Body to
UNESCO
-ds’, i.e. commodities to be ‘filled’ or used for events and activities of
specific groups for which they were not designed. Many have undergone
changes detrimental to their historic qualities, design, vegetation, character,
and uses. The importance of integrating public parks in town planning
schemes was acknowledged in the 19th and early 20th centuries, so many
of them date from that era, but some urban parks may be older or younger.
Definitions for concepts such as promenade, boulevard, avenue, tree-lined
street, canal, etc. can be added as footnotes to the document by authorities
and park management in their respective countries as necessary.
ICOMOS - IFLA Prin-
ciples concerning Rural
Landscape as Heritage
2017
The principles presented in this document seek to address loss and adverse
changes to rural landscapes and their associated communities through the
recognition, safeguarding, and promotion of their heritage values. Its goal
is to promote an appropriate balance between economic, social, cultural,
and environmental aspects.
ICOFORT Final Draft
Charter (2020)
ICOFORT’s Charter on Fortifications and Military Heritage and the; guide-
lines for Protection, Conservation and interpretation provides guidance for
an integrated conservation of fortifications and military heritage within the
context of the surrounding cultural landscape.
Fortifications and military heritage comprise of any structure built with
either natural (i.e. botanical or geological) or artificial materials, by a human
community to protect themselves from assailant, such
ICOFORT Final Draft
Charter (2020)
as: works of military engineering, arsenals, harbors and naval battlefields,
barracks, military bases, testing fields, and other enclaves and constructions
built or used for military, offensive and defensive purposes. Military cultur-
al landscapes include but not limited to battlefields, territorial or coastal de-
fense installations and earth works and have values similar to other heritage
buildings and sites, but also possess unique values that need to be carefully
studied, analyzed and preserved. A Research Project for NITI Aayog | 159
A.2 National
Organisation/
Department
Charter/
Convention/ Policy
Abstract/ Brief
ASI National Policy for Conser-
vation, 2014
National Policy for the Conservation of the Ancient Monuments, Archae-
ological Sites and Remains (NPC-AMASR) continues, on the one hand, to
further the already laid out objectives of safeguarding monuments and sites
of national importance and, on the other, envisions bringing in renewed
impetus for contemporising and indigenising the conservation approach.
The process of conservation [of monuments] is being aimed to manifest
itself as a dynamic enterprise intertwining concerns for the sustenance of
their physical fabric with their overall effective management. As we have
moved into the second decade of the twenty-first century, the duty of the
Archaeological Survey of India (ASI) will be, as it has been, to conserve
these monuments [along with their setting] with utmost care, to be cher-
ished upon by the nation as “national treasures”.
National Draft Explora-
tion and Excavation Policy,
2015
ASI adopted the Excavation Policy in 2015. However, a need is being felt to
update this policy keeping in view the changing scenarios, advancement in
technology, etc. NITI Aayog on Heritage, 2020 recommends the revisions
required in this policy.
MoEFCC National Conservation
Strategy and Policy State-
ment on Environment and
Development, 1992
The policy focuses on environment and natural heritage but also includes
cultural heritage within forest and natural areas with a recommendation
“to protect the scenic landscapes, areas of geomorphological significance,
unique and representative biomes and ecosystems and wildlife habitats,
heritage sites/structures and areas of cultural heritage importance.”
Ministry of
Railways
Indian Railways Heritage
Charter, 2018
The Charter aims at providing guidelines for Conservation, Preservation,
Restoration, Repair and Maintenance of Historic Railway Assets, so as to
enable posterity to enjoy and gain knowledge of the past technologies and
processes which have been used during various stages of construction de-
velopment of rail-based transportation in India. 160 |Challenges faced in Heritage Management in India and Policy Imperatives
Organisation/
Department
Charter/
Convention/ Policy
Abstract/ Brief
Ministry of
Human
Resources
Development
National Education Policy
NEP 2020
The new Education Policy specifically focuses on inclusion of Art and
Culture at all levels and specifies Article 22.11 and 22.13 for inclusion of
capacity building for built heritage conservation.
“22.11. High-quality programmes and degrees in Translation and Interpre-
tation, Art and Museum Administration, Archaeology, Artefact Conserva-
tion, Graphic Design, and Web Design within the higher education system
will also be created. In order to preserve and promote its art and culture,
develop high-quality materials in various Indian languages, conserve ar-
tefacts, develop highly qualified individuals to curate and run museums
and heritage or tourist sites, thereby also vastly strengthening the tourism
industry.
22.13. Creating such programmes and degrees in higher education,
across the arts, languages, and humanities, will also come with expanded
high-quality opportunities for employment that can make effective use of
these qualifications. There are already hundreds of Academies, museums,
art galleries, and heritage sites in dire need of qualified individuals for their
effective functioning. As positions are filled with suitably qualified candi-
dates, and further artefacts are procured and conserved, additional muse-
ums, including virtual museums/e-museums, galleries, and heritage sites
may contribute to the conservation of our heritage as well as to India’s
tourism industry.”
MoHUA Model Heritage Regula-
tions, (2011) and Model
Building Byelaws
The regulations have been prepared for protecting the Graded Heritage
structures and are in the form of Model which can be adopted by the State
Governments in their respective building regulations.
(MBBL), 2016 by TCPOIn the revised MBBL 2016, Chapter 8 covers the Conservation of Heritage
Sites including Heritage Buildings, Heritage Precincts and Natural Feature
Areas.
INTACH Charter for the Conserva-
tion of Unprotected Archi-
tectural Heritage and Sites
in India, 2004
It is the only charter that focuses on India’s unprotected heritage. As per
this charter: “The majority of India’s architectural heritage and sites are
unprotected. They constitute a unique civilization legacy, as valuable as the
monuments legally protected by ASI/ SDA and other governmental and
non-governmental agencies. This legacy is being steadily eroded as a result
of insensitive modernization and urbanization, and the fact that it does
not command the same respect as legally protected monuments. Many un- A Research Project for NITI Aayog | 161
Organisation/
Department
Charter/
Convention/ Policy
Abstract/ Brief
-protected heritage sites are still in use, and the manner in which they con-
tinue to be kept in use represents the ‘living’ heritage of India.
This heritage is manifest in both tangible and intangible forms (Article 2.2),
and in its diversity defines the composite culture of the country. Beyond
its role as a historic document, this unprotected heritage embodies val-
ues of enduring relevance to contemporary Indian society, thus making it
worthy of conservation. This ‘living’ heritage is not legally protected. The
buildings and sites, which constitute it, are subject to demolition or unsym-
pathetic interventions. The knowledge of traditional building skills with
which it is associated is also in danger of being lost in the absence of pa-
tronage and official recognition. Conserving the ‘living’ heritage, therefore,
offers the potential to conserve both traditional buildings and traditional
ways of building.
Conserving the unprotected architectural heritage and sites ensures the
survival of the country’s sense of place and its very character in a global-
ising environment. It offers the opportunity not only to conserve the past,
but also to define the future. It provides alternate avenues for employment
and a parallel market for local building materials and technologies, which
needs to be taken into account when resources for development are severe-
ly constrained.
This ‘living’ heritage also has symbiotic relationships with the natural en-
vironments within which it originally evolved. Understanding this interde-
pendent ecological network and conserving it can make a significant con-
tribution to improving the quality of the environment.”
Besides the above policies for heritage at National level,
several State Level Policies focusing on Heritage have
been introduced across India such as the Rajasthan
State Tourism Policy 2020 and Gujrat Tourism Policy
2020 that provide incentives for Built Heritage.
B. Acts
This section covers all the Central Acts by ASI, MoEF-
CC, MoHUA, State Acts by Departments of Culture
and Archaeology, Departments of Town Planning,
Forest Departments, Municipal Corporation Acts and
Cantonment Act, their application area and whether
they have a heritage clause in them with the number of
heritage structures/sites protected under the Act. 162 |Challenges faced in Heritage Management in India and Policy Imperatives
Act Application Heritage Protection Clause
MoC/ASI - An-
cient Mon-
uments and
Archaeological
Sites and Re-
mains Act 1958,
amendment in
2010
Ancient historical monu-
ments, archaeological sites,
excavation sites, sculptures,
carvings - 3693 protected
Complete Act
Antiquities and
Art
Treasures Act,
1972
Regulation in the export
trade in antiquities and art
treasures, acquisition of an-
tiquities and art treasures for
preservation in public places
Complete Act
Forest
Conservation
Act, 1980
Forest Areas Complete Act for Natural Heritage includes clauses on cultural heritage
Environment
(Protection)
Act 1986 (E.P.
Act)
Environment Complete Act for Natural Heritage includes clauses on cultural heritage
Delhi Urban
Arts
Commission
Act 1973
Urban and environmental
design within Delhi
11(1) It shall be the general duty of the Commission to advise the Central
Government in the matter of preserving, developing and maintaining
the aesthetic quality of urban and environmental design within Delhi &
to provide advice and guidance to any local body in respect of any proj-
ect of building operations or engineering operations or any development
proposal which affects or is likely to affect the sky-line or the aesthetic
quality of surroundings or any public amenity provided therein.
11(2) (b) re-development of the area within the jurisdiction of New Del-
hi Municipal Committee including Connaught Place Complex and its en-
virons, Central Vista, the entire bungalow area of Lutyen’s New Delhi,
B.1 National Acts A Research Project for NITI Aayog | 163
Act Application Heritage Protection Clause
and such other areas as the Central Government may, by notification in
the Official Gazette, specify;
11(2)(d) re-development of areas in the vicinity of Jama Masjid, Red Fort,
Qutab, Humayun’s Tomb, Old Fort, Tuglakabad and of such other places
of historical importance as the Central Government may, by notification
in the Official Gazette, specify;
11(2)(e) conservation, preservation and beautification of monumental
buildings, public parks and public gardens including location or installa-
tion of statues or fountains therein;
MoS -
Lighthouse Act
1927
Provision, maintenance and
control of lighthouses.
(no mention of heritage
or conservation in the Act)
- 99 Lighthouses
6. Power to inspect local lighthouses
7. Control of local lighthouses by the Central Government
8. Management of local lighthouses by the Central Government
MoD –
Cantonments
Act, 2006
Cantonment Areas - 62 can-
tonments
Clause 62. Duties of Board
(xvii) conservation and maintenance of ancient and historical monu-
ments, archaeological sites and remains or place of public importance in
the cantonment;
Caves, Andhra Pradesh; Source - DRONAH 164 |Challenges faced in Heritage Management in India and Policy Imperatives
B.2 State Level Acts
1. Andhra Pradesh
Act Application Heritage Protection Clause
Andhra Pradesh Department of Archaeology and Museums
Andhra Pradesh
Ancient and
Historical Mon-
uments and
Archaeological
Sites and Re-
mains Act 1960
Ancient historical monu-
ments, archaeological sites,
excavation sites, sculptures,
carvings - 277 protected
Complete Act
Forest Department
The Andhra
Pradesh Forest
Act, 1967
Forest Areas No clause for heritage protection
Department of Urban Development
Andhra Pradesh
Urban Areas
(Development)
Act, 1975.
Amendment in
2000 by HUDA
for Hyderabad
Local Urban Areas 39. Art Commission
(2)(i) the restoration and conservation of urban design and of the envi-
ronment in the development areas;
(iii) the restoration and conservation of archaeological and historical sites
and sites of high scenic beauty;
Directorate of Town and Country Planning
Andhra Pradesh
Metropolitan Re-
gion and Urban
Development
Authorities Act,
2016
Local Urban Areas, metro-
politan area
11. Development Plans (2)(iii) Proposals and policies for preservation,
conservation and development of areas of natural beauty and sce nic
spots, and areas of historic and archaeological interest and tourism areas
and heritage buildings and heritage precincts;
(xiv) Proposals and policies for promoting development and regulating
uses and activities through Zoning and other Development Promotion
Regulations, conservation and preservation of heritage buildings and ar-
eas;
19.(9) preservation, conservation and protection of all heritage related
objects and also water bodies; A Research Project for NITI Aayog | 165
1. Andhra Pradesh
Act Application Heritage Protection Clause
Andhra Pradesh
Town Planning
Act, 1920 with
amendment in
1996
Local Urban Areas, regional
level
4.A(m) The preservation of objects and buildings of Subs, for the original
cl.by S.4 (i) of Madras Act, II of 1930.
Subs. For the word “and” by S.4 (ii) ibid. Ins. By S.4 (iii) ibid.
The words “for building purposes “ were omitted by ibid.
The words “for the poorer and working classes” were omitted by S.4 (iv),
ibid.Archaeological or historic interest or of natural beauty or actually
used for religious purposes or regarded by the public with special religious
veneration;
Andhra Pradesh
Water, Land and
Trees Act, 2002
Forest, waterbodies, trees23. (1) The authority may notify water bodies like lakes, village ponds and
minor irrigation tanks along with nalas (water course or drainage course)
as heritage bodies and conservation areas to prevent conversion of their
intended use and the authority shall take all measures to permanently de-
marcate the boundaries through the department of the Government or
the organization concerned as per the memoirs of lakes / tanks / ponds
/ nalas (water course or drainage course) and shall take measures to evict
and prevent encroachment. For this purpose, the Authority may give di-
rections to the concerned department, agency, statutory body or official
and upon such direction, the concerned department, agency, statutory
body or official shall comply with such directions. The authority may also
issue guidelines in this regard and the guidelines shall be complied with
by all the concerned.
2. Arunachal Pradesh
Act Application Heritage Protection Clause
Department of Cultural Affairs - Arunachal Pradesh Directorate of Research – Archaeological Section
The Arunachal
Pradesh Ancient
Monument,
Archaeological
Sites and Re-
mains Preserva-
tion Act, 1987,
1990
Ancient historical monu-
ments, archaeological sites,
excavation sites, sculptures,
carvings - 8 protected
Complete Act 166 |Challenges faced in Heritage Management in India and Policy Imperatives
2. Arunachal Pradesh
Act Application Heritage Protection Clause
Arunachal Pradesh Heritage Authority
The Arunachal
Pradesh Heritage
Act, 2015
Complete Act
Arunachal Pradesh Forest Department
Arunachal
Pradesh Forest
Act, 2014
Forest Areas 34. (2) The forest-land and waste-lands comprised in any such notification
shall be called a “protected forest”.
36. Protection of reserved trees
37. Protection of Unclassed State Forest belonging to Government
40. Protection of forests for special purposes
Department of Town Planning and ULB’s
Urban & Coun-
try Planning Act,
Rules 2007
Local Urban Areas, regional
level
No clause
3. Assam
Act Application Heritage Protection Clause
Department of Cultural Affairs - Directorate of Archaeology
The Assam An-
cient Monument
and Records Act,
1959
Ancient historical monu-
ments, archaeological sites,
excavation sites, sculptures,
carvings - 137 protected
Complete Act
The Assam Her-
itage (Tangible)
Protection, Pres-
ervation,
Complete Act
Conservation
and Maintenance
Act, 2020 A Research Project for NITI Aayog | 167
3. Assam
Act Application Heritage Protection Clause
Department of Urban Development – Directorate of Town and Country Planning
The Assam
Town & Coun-
try Planning Act
1959 (as amend-
ed)
Local Urban Areas, regional
level
No clause for heritage protection
4. Bihar
Act Application Heritage Protection Clause
Bihar Directorate of Archaeology
Bihar Ancient
Monuments and
Archaeological
Sites’ Remains
and Art Trea-
sures Act, 1976
Ancient historical monu-
ments, archaeological sites,
excavation sites, sculptures,
carvings - 51 protected
Complete Act
Urban and Housing Department
Bihar Urban
Planning and
Development
Act, 2012
Local Urban Areas, regional
level
4.(e) direct the preparations of one or more regional natural resources and
environmental conservation Plans.
21.(b) matters of common interests between Municipalities and the Pan-
chayats including coordinated spatial planning of the area sharing of wa-
ter and other physical and natural resources, the integrated development
of infrastructure and environment conservation
67. Acquisition of Land by Way of Transferable Development Right.-(1)
Any area within a Planning Area may be acquired by the Planning Author-
ity for public purposes with the consent of the owner, by way of accord-
ing Transferable Development Right in lieu of compensation payable by
the authority in such manner as may be prescribed:
77. Constitution of Urban Arts and Heritage Commission for the State.-
(2) The Commission shall make recommendations to the Government 168 |Challenges faced in Heritage Management in India and Policy Imperatives
4. Bihar
Act Application Heritage Protection Clause
as to-
(a) the restoration and conservation of urban design and of the environ-
ment and heritage sites and buildings in the Planning Areas
(c) the restoration and conservation of archaeological and historical sites
and sites to high scenic beauty;
5. Chattisgarh
Act Application Heritage Protection Clause
Chhattisgarh Directorate of Culture and Archaeology
The Madhya
Pradesh Ancient
Monuments and
Archaeological
Sites and Re-
mains (Amend-
ment) Act, 1970.
Ancient historical monu-
ments, archaeological sites,
excavation sites, sculptures,
carvings - 58 protected
The given Act functions for Chhattisgarh, even though the Act pertains
to the Govt. of MP.
Archaeological Remains of Chhattisgarh; Source - cgculture.in A Research Project for NITI Aayog | 169
6. Goa
Act Application Heritage Protection Clause
Goa Directorate of Archives and Archaeology
The Goa, Daman
and Diu Ancient
Monuments and
Archaeological
Sites and Re-
mains Act, 1978
and Rules, 1980.
Ancient historical monu-
ments, archaeological sites,
excavation sites, sculptures,
carvings - 51 protected
Complete Act
Goa Forest Department
Goa, Daman and
Diu Preservation
of Trees Act,
1984
Forest Areas 7A. Declaration of State Tree:- The Government may having regard to
ecological, socioeconomic, cultural or heritage value, declare a tree to be
a State tree.
12. Preservation of trees.— (1) Subject to the provisions of section 14, it
shall be the duty of the owner of the land to comply with an order made
under section 9, or a direction issued under section 10 or section 11 and
to plant trees in accordance with such an order or direction and to ensure
that they grow well and are well preserved.
Town and Country Planning Department
Goa Town and
Country Plan-
ning Act, 1974
amended up to
2018
Local Urban Areas 11.2.(b) the reservation of land for recreation, botanical and zoological
gardens, natural reserves, animal sanctuaries, dairies and health resorts and
for the preservation, conservation and development of areas of natural
scenery, forests, wild life, natural resources and landscaping;
(c) preservation of objects, features, structures or places of historical,
natural, archaeological or scientific int-erest and educational value;
30B) transferable development right for posterity” means the right to sell,
transfer or surrender the development right or potential of land zoned as
agricultural land or land in other areas such as heritage site, water body,
riverine land, farm land, khazan land, private forest, land under Coastal
Regulation Zone and the like to alternate sites as identified in the Devel-
opment Plan or Regional Plan;.
41C. Preservation of natural reserves and resources for posterity.— A
Planning and Development Authority, municipal corporation, municipal
council or a village 170 |Challenges faced in Heritage Management in India and Policy Imperatives
6. Goa
Act Application Heritage Protection Clause
panchayat may with approval of the Government and the consent of the
owner, withdraw or severe the development right or potential in respect
of land identified for conservation or preservation in the Regional Plan
or Development Plan and the Government may allot the development
right, thus removed, or severed to other area which is more suitable for
development by way of transferable development right for posterity in
such manner as may be prescribed.]
Department of Urban Development
The Goa, City of
Panaji Corpora-
tion Act, 2002
Local Urban Areas 9. Constitution of Corporation and division of City into wards.— (1) The
Corporation shall consist of:—
(a) 1Thirty Councillors directly elected at ward elections;
(b) Five nominated Councillors having special knowledge or experience
inmunicipal administration, engineering, architecture, archaeology, heri-
tage, etc., nominated by the State Government by a notification.
7. Gujarat
Act Application Heritage Protection Clause
Gujarat Directorate of Archaeology and Museums
The Gujarat
Ancient Mon-
uments and
Archaeological
Sites and Re-
mains Act, 1965.
Ancient historical monu-
ments, archaeological sites,
excavation sites, sculptures,
carvings - 317 protected
Complete Act
Gujarat Forest Department
Forest Conser-
vation Act, 1980.
Rules 1981
Forest Areas Complete Act
Gujarat Town Planning Department
Gujarat Town
Planning & Ur-
ban Develop-
ment Act, 1976
Local Urban Areas, regional
level
12.2.(h) preservation, conservation and development of areas of natural
scenery and landscape
12.2.(i) preservation of features, structures or places of historical, natural,
architectural or scientific interest and of educational value A Research Project for NITI Aayog | 171
8. Haryana
Act Application Heritage Protection Clause
Haryana Directorate of Archaeology and Museums
The Punjab An-
cient and Histor-
ical Monuments
and Archaeolog-
ical Sites and Re-
mains Act, 1964
Ancient historical monu-
ments, archaeological sites,
excavation sites, sculptures,
carvings - 36 protected
Complete Act
Haryana Forest Department
Forest Conserva-
tion Act 1980
Forest Areas Complete Act
Department of Town and Country Planning
The Haryana
Development
and Regulation
of Urban Areas
Act, 1975.
Local Urban Areas 98. The Local Development Authority shall be entitled to charge and col-
lect, toll, for the use of approach roads and other amenities, at such rate
and in such manner as may be notified by the State Government, from
visitors, to such places of popular resort (including any ancient and histor-
ical monuments) within its Local development area as may be so notified
Punjab sched-
uled Roads &
Controlled Areas
Restriction of
Unregulated De-
velopment Act,
1963
Regional Areas Preparation of Development Plans
8. Contents of Plans of Controlled Area
(ii)(e) special areas of aesthetic, sentimental or historic value which require
protection;
Haryana Urban Development Authority
Haryana Urban
Development
Authority Act,
1971, 1977
Local Urban Areas, metro-
politan areas, regional level
No clause for heritage protection 172 |Challenges faced in Heritage Management in India and Policy Imperatives
9. Himachal Pradesh
Act Application Heritage Protection Clause
Himachal Pradesh Department of Language, Art and Culture
The Himachal
Pradesh Ancient
and Historical
Monuments and
Archaeological
Sites and Re-
mains Act, 1976
Ancient historical monu-
ments, archaeological sites,
excavation sites, sculptures,
carvings - 8 protected
Complete Act
Himachal Pradesh Forest Department
Himachal
Pradesh Private
Forests Act,
1954
Forest Areas 19. Controlled Forest – nothing comprehensive about protection or pres-
ervation
Department of Town and Country Planning
Himachal
Pradesh Town
& Country Plan-
ning Act, 1977
amended up to
2018
Local Urban Areas, regional
level
7. Contents of the regional plan
(f) landscaping and the preservation of areas in their nat ural state;
30.A.1. Exemption from development permission in rural areas falling
within Planning or Special Area
(vi) Heritage related activities such as lakes, reservoirs, dams, baulies, wild
life sanctuaries, cemeteries, graveyards, railway lines.
Urban Development Department
Himachal
Pradesh Munic-
ipal Act, 1994
amended up to
2020
Local Urban Areas 261. District Planning Committees:
(3) Every District Planning Committee shall in preparing the draft devel-
opment plan
(a) have regard to - (i) matters of common interest between the munici-
palitities and panchayats including spatial planning, sharing of water and
other physical and natural resources, the integrated development of in-
frastructure A Research Project for NITI Aayog | 173
Town Hall, Shimla; Source - DRONAH
10. Jharkhand
Act Application Heritage Protection Clause
Directorate of Culture
Jharkhand An-
cient Monu-
ments and Ar-
chaeological
Sites, Remains
and Art Trea-
sures Act, 2016
Ancient historical monu-
ments, archaeological sites,
excavation sites, sculptures,
carvings - 3 protected
Complete Act
Department of Tourism
Jharkhand Tour-
ist Places (Pro-
tection and
Maintenance)
Act, 2015
Tourist Sites No clause for heritage protection of tourist sites 174 |Challenges faced in Heritage Management in India and Policy Imperatives
11. Karnataka
Act Application Heritage Protection Clause
Karnataka Department of Archaeology Museums and Heritage
Mysore Ancient
Monuments
Preservation
Act, 1925. Rules
1965
Ancient historical monu-
ments, archaeological sites,
excavation sites, sculptures,
carvings
Complete Act
The Karnataka
Ancient Monu-
ments and Ar-
chaeological
Tourist Sites - 801 protectedComplete Act
Sites and Re-
mains Act, 1961
Karnataka Forest Department
The Karnataka
Forest Act, 1963
Forest Areas 37. Preservation of private forests.—(1) No owner of any forest and no
person claiming under him, whether by virtue of a contract, licence or any
other transaction entered into before or after this Act comes into force, or
any other person shall, without the previous permission of the 1[ Deputy
Conservator of Forest]1, cut or girdle trees or do any act likely to denude
the forest, or diminish its utility as a forest.
Karnataka Pres-
ervation of Trees
Act, 1976
Forest Areas, Trees in
non-forest areas
Complete Act
Directorate of Town and Country Planning
Karnataka T&CP
Act, 1961 amend-
ed up to 2020
Local Urban Areas 12. Contents of Master Plan –
(3) Master Plan shall indicate “Heritage Buildings” and “Heritage Precincts” and
shall include the regulations made therein for conservation of the same.
26. Making of town planning scheme and its contents –
2(i) the preservation of objects of historical or national interest or natural beauty
and of buildings actually used for religious purposes;
Karnataka Urban
Development Au-
thority Act 1987
Local Urban Areas, metropoli-
tan areas, regional level
No clause for heritage protection A Research Project for NITI Aayog | 175
12. Kerala
Act Application Heritage Protection Clause
Kerala State Department of Archaeology
Kerala Ancient
Monuments and
Archaeological
Sites and Re-
mains Act - 1968
Ancient historical monu-
ments, archaeological sites,
excavation sites, sculptures,
carvings - 195 protected
Complete Act
The Art and
Heritage Com-
mission consti-
tuted under Rule
154 of Kerala
Municipality
Building Rules
1999
Department of Tourism
The Kerala
Tourism (Con-
servation and
Preservation of
Areas) Act, 2005
Tourist Sites No clause for heritage protection
Forest Department
Kerala Forest
Act, 1961
Forest Areas 36. (1) The owner of any land or, if there be more than one owner there-
of, the owners of shares therein, whether divided or not, amounting in the
aggregate to at least two thirds thereof, may, with a view to the formation
or conservation of forests thereon represent in writing to the Chief Con-
servator of Forests.
Forest Areas,
Trees in non-for-
est areas
Complete Act 176 |Challenges faced in Heritage Management in India and Policy Imperatives
12. Kerala
Act Application Heritage Protection Clause
Local Self Government Department Planning
Kerala Town and
Country Plan-
ning Act, 2016
Local Urban Areas, metro-
politan areas, regional level
State town and country planning board and the perspective plan for the
state
8. Matters that may be dealt with in the Perspective Plan for the State.—
(h) conservation of national and state level heritage areas;
District Planning Committee and Plans for the District
14. Powers and functions of District Planning Committee.—
(l) The District Planning Committee, for the purposes of this Act, shall
formulate development goals, objectives, policies and priorities in matters
relating to planning, development and use of rural and urban land in the
district and shall have due regard to the overall objectives and priorities
set by the Government and the Government of India, all Plans prepared
under this Act which have relevance to the district concerned, matters of
common interest among the Local Self Government Institutions in the
district, integrated development of infrastructure, environmental conser-
vation and spatial development.
15. Perspective Plan for the district and matters that may be dealt with in
the Perspective Plan.—
(f) conservation of environment, forests, ecologically sensitive areas and
heritage zones;
23. Metropolitan Planning Committees, Perspective Plan for the Metro-
politan Area and matters that may be dealt with in the Perspective Plan. —
(f) protection of environmentally and ecologically sensitive areas and con-
servation of heritage;
34. Matters that may be dealt with in the Master Plan.—
(vii) system of open space, play fields and recreation areas, conservation
areas, ecologically and environmentally sensitive areas, natural hazard
prone areas and public gathering grounds;
(x) tourism, environmental conservation, heritage, coastal area develop-
ment and the like; and Detailed Town Planning Schemes
45. Matters that may be dealt within a Detailed Town Planning Scheme.—
(f) conservation of ecologically sensitive areas; A Research Project for NITI Aayog | 177
12. Kerala
Act Application Heritage Protection Clause
(h) conservation of heritage sites and buildings, objects of historical im-
portance or natural beauty and of buildings actually used for religious
purposes; Kerala Urban Art Commission
91. Functions of Kerala Urban Art Commission –
(i) identify buildings and precincts which require conservation and pre-
pare or get prepared list of such buildings and precincts and grade them;
13. Madhya Pradesh
Act Application Heritage Protection Clause
Madhya Pradesh Directorate of Archaeology, Archives and Museums
Madhya Pradesh
Ancient Mon-
uments and
Archaeological
Sites and Re-
mains Act, 1964,
amendment 1970
Ancient historical monu-
ments, archaeological sites,
excavation sites, sculptures,
carvings - 527 protected
Complete Act
Madhya Pradesh Department of Forests
Madhya Pradesh
Preservation of
Trees (Urban Ar-
eas) Act, 2002
Urban Vegetation, Trees in
non-forest areas
Complete Act
Madhya Pradesh Town and Country Planning Act
Madhya Pradesh
Nagar Town and
Country Plan-
ning Act, 1973
Local Urban Areas No clause for heritage protection 178 |Challenges faced in Heritage Management in India and Policy Imperatives
14. Maharashtra
Act Application Heritage Protection Clause
Maharashtra Directorate of Archaeology and Museum
Maharashtra
Ancient Monu-
ments, Antiquity
and Remains Act
– 1960.
Ancient historical monu-
ments, archaeological sites,
excavation sites, sculptures,
carvings - 244 protected
Complete Act
Maharashtra Forest Department
Maharashtra
(Urban Areas)
Preservation of
Trees Act, 1975
Urban Vegetation, Trees in
non-forest areas
Complete Act
Directorate of Town Planning and Valuation
Maharashtra Re-
gional and
Local Urban Areas, regional
level
Development Plan
22.(i) preservation of features, structures or places ofhistorical, natural,
architectural and scientific interest and educational value [and of heritage
buildings and heritage precincts];
43 (i) for carrying out works for the maintenance, improvement or other
alteration of any building, being works which affect only the interior of
the building or which do not materially affect the external appearance
thereof 2[except in case of heritage building or heritage precinct;]
Mumbai Metro-
politan Region
Development
Act, 1974
Local Urban Areas, Metro-
politan Areas
No comprehensive clause for heritage protection
Maharashtra
Housing and
Area Develop-
ment Act, 1976
Local Urban Areas No comprehensive clause for heritage protection A Research Project for NITI Aayog | 179
New Rajwada, Kolhapur; Source - DRONAH 180 |Challenges faced in Heritage Management in India and Policy Imperatives
15. Meghalaya
Act Application Heritage Protection Clause
Meghalaya Department of Art and Culture
The Meghalaya
Heritage Act,
2012
Ancient historical monu-
ments, archaeological sites,
excavation sites, sculptures,
carvings - 4 protected
Complete Act
Forests & Environment Department
Tree Preserva-
tion Act, 1976
Forest Areas, Trees in
non-forest areas - 133
sacred groves
Complete Act
Department of Urban Affairs
The Meghalaya
Town and Coun-
try Planning
Act, 1973 and
Amendment in
2004
Local Urban Areas, regional
level
No clause for heritage protection
16. Manipur
Act Application Heritage Protection Clause
The Manipur State Archaeology
49 protected No Act
Department of Town Planning, Manipur
Town and Coun-
try Planning Act,
1975
Local Urban Areas, regional
level
32. Scope of the Development Scheme
(i) the preservation of objects of historical importance or natural beauty
and of buildings actually used for religious purposes; A Research Project for NITI Aayog | 181
17. Mizoram
Act Application Heritage Protection Clause
Mizoram Art and Culture Department
Mizoram An-
cient Monu-
ments and Ar-
chaeological sites
and Remains
Act, 2001
Ancient historical monu-
ments, archaeological sites,
excavation sites, sculptures,
carvings - 81 protected
Complete Act
Department of Environment, Forests & Climate Change
Mizoram Forest
Act, 1995
Forest Areas Complete Act
Urban Development and Poverty Alleviation Department
Mizoram Urban
and Regional
Development
Act, 1990
Local Urban Areas, region-
al level, archaeological mon
uments and historical plac-
es.
District of Regional Development Plan
13.(b) Reservation of land for recreation, botanical and zoological gar-
dens, natural reserves, animal sanctuaries, dairies and health resorts and
for preservation, conservation of forest, wild life, natural resources and
landscaping;
(c) Preservation of objects, features, structures or places of historical,
natural, archaeological or scientific interest and educational value ;Urban
Development Plan
14.(e) make proposals for general landscaping and preservation of natural
areas or regions and historical places; Contents of Rural or Sectoral Plans
16 (b) define in detail and provide for areas of regio-ns reserved for ag-
riculture, public & semi-public, open spaces, parks, playgrounds, gardens,
recreational areas, green belts natural reserves and historical places ;
Development Scheme
36.(p) the preservation of objects of historical importance or natural
beauty and of building actually used for religious purpose. 182 |Challenges faced in Heritage Management in India and Policy Imperatives
18. Nagaland
Act Application Heritage Protection Clause
Nagaland The Department of Art & Culture
No Act
Department of Environment, Forests & Climate Change
Nagaland Forest
Act, 1968
Forest Areas Protection of forest at request of owner.- 39. (1) The owner of any land
or, if there be more than one owner thereof, the owners of shares therein
amounting in the aggregate to at least two-thirds thereof may, with a view
to the formation or conservation of forest thereon, represent in writing to
the Deputy Commissioner their desire;
Many other clauses for protection of forests.
Directorate of Urban Development Nagaland
Nagaland Town
and Country
Planning Act,
1966
Local Urban Areas, regional
level
Chapter IV
Development Scheme
Scope of Development Scheme
(i) the preservation of objects of historical importance or natural beauty
and ofbuildings actually used for religious purpose;
19. Odisha
Act Application Heritage Protection Clause
Odisha State Archaeology
Odisha Ancient
Monuments
Preservation Act
of 1956
Ancient historical monu-
ments, archaeological sites,
excavation sites, sculptures,
carvings - 218 protected
Complete Act
Odisha State Forest Department
Orissa Forest
Act, 1972 with
amendment in
2000
Forest Areas 33. Protected Forests
Department of Housing and Urban Development
The Orissa Town
Planning and
Local Urban Areas, regional
level
30. Preparation of Master Plan
(xv) preservation of historical monuments A Research Project for NITI Aayog | 183
19. Odisha
Act Application Heritage Protection Clause
Improvement
Trust Act, 1956
as amended in
1976
36. Re-building Scheme
(2)(a) the preservation of streets lanes and open spaces and the enlarge-
ment of existing streets, lanes and open spaces to such extent as may be
necessary for the purposes of the scheme;
Not comprehensive – heritage legislation pending
Orissa Develop-
ment Authority
Act, 1982
Local Urban Areas, regional
areas
Town Planning Schemes
22.4(p) the preservation of objects of historical or national interest or
natural beauty and of buildings actually used for religious purposes;
Art Commission
88.(2)(iii) the restoration and conservation of archaeological and historical
sites and sites of high scenic beauty
20. Punjab
Act Application Heritage Protection Clause
Punjab Directorate of Cultural Affairs, Archaeology and Museums
The Punjab An-
cient and Histor-
ical Monuments
and Archaeolog-
ical Sites and Re-
mains Act, 1964.
Ancient historical monu-
ments, archaeological sites,
excavation sites, sculptures,
carvings - 92 protected
Complete Act
The Punjab An-
cient and Histor-
ical Monuments
and Archaeo-
logical Sites and
Cultural Heritage
Maintenance
Board Act, 2013
Forest Areas Complete Act 184 |Challenges faced in Heritage Management in India and Policy Imperatives
20. Punjab
Act Application Heritage Protection Clause
Department of Forests & Wildlife Preservation
Indian Forest
Act, 1927 with
Punjab Amend-
ment in 2004
Forest Areas Complete Act
Punjab Urban Planning & Development Authority
The Punjab Re-
gional and Town
Planning and
Development
Act, 1995
Local Urban Areas, regional
level
Planning Areas and Planning Schemes
56.6 Provided that the exemptions granted in the case of operational con-
structions and constructions in the areas comprised in abadi-deh of any
village falling inside its lal lakir or phirni, shall not apply in the case of
development affecting heritage site or its vicinity.]
Regional Plans
62.(f) preservation, conservation and development of areas of natural
scenery, forest, wild
62. (g) preservation of objects, features, structure or places of historical,
natural, architectural or scientific interest, educational value and heritage
site;
70. Preparation and Approval of Master plans
70.(1(cc) indicate areas covered under heritage site and the manner in
which protection, preservation and conservation of such site including
its regulation and control of development, which is either affecting the
heritage site or its vicinity, shall be carried out
80. Control of Development and use of land in the area where master plan
is in operation
91(2)(i) Town Development Schemes
the preservation and protection of objects of historical importance or na-
tional interest or 2003 [natural beauty or heritage site] and of building
actually used for religious purposes; A Research Project for NITI Aayog | 185
21. Rajasthan
Act Application Heritage Protection Clause
Department of Archaeology and Museums
The Rajasthan
Monuments,
Archaeological
Sites and Antiq-
uities Act, 1961
with amendment
in 2006, 2007
Ancient historical monu-
ments, archaeological sites,
excavation sites, sculptures,
carvings - 391 protected
Complete Act
Govt of Rajasthan, Forest Portal
Rajasthan Forest
Act, 1953
Forest Areas 29. Protected Forests
Urban Development and Housing Department
Rajasthan Urban
Improvement
Act 1959 as
amended in 1991
Local Urban Areas, Met-
ropolitan Areas, Regional
Level
18. Inaccurate regulation
Heritage properties and precincts are mentioned but no comprehensive
legislation or clause for heritage protection
Moti Dungri, Jaipur; Source - DRONAH 186 |Challenges faced in Heritage Management in India and Policy Imperatives
22. Sikkim
Act Application Heritage Protection Clause
Cultural Affairs and Heritage Department
No Act
Forest and Environment Department, Sikkim
The Sikkim For-
ests and Water
Courses (Pres-
ervation and
Protection) Bill,
2007
Forest Areas Complete Act
Sikkim Urban and Regional Planning Board
The Sikkim Ur-
ban and Region-
al Planning and
Development
Act,1998
Local Urban Areas and re-
gional areas
Sikkim Urban and Regional Planning Board
4.(2)(i) protection of environmentally and ecologically sensitive areas and
conservation of national and state level heritage areas;
Preparation of plans and their approval
33 (i) Protection of environmentally sensitive areas and conservation of
heritage;
Preparation of development plan of development area and its contents
36 (xiii) proposals for preparation of development schemes pertaining
to tourism, environmental conservat-ion, heritage, sites for reclamation,
highway corridor development and the like
Publication of the development scheme and its approval
58.(h) preservation and protection of heritage sites and buildings. Objects
of historical importance or natural beauty and of buildings actually used
for religious purposes;
Sikkim State Au-
thority for Plan-
ning and De-
velopment Act,
2007
Local Urban Areas No clause for heritage protection A Research Project for NITI Aayog | 187
Monastery - Gangtok, Sikkim; Source - DRONAH
23. Tamil Nadu
Act Application Heritage Protection Clause
Tamil Nadu State Department of Archaeology
Tamil Nadu An-
cient and Histor-
ical Monuments
and Archaeolog-
ical Sites and Re-
mains Act- 1966
Ancient historical monu-
ments, archaeological sites,
excavation sites, sculptures,
carvings - 89 protected
Complete Act 188 |Challenges faced in Heritage Management in India and Policy Imperatives
23. Tamil Nadu
Act Application Heritage Protection Clause
Tamil Nadu Her-
itage Commis-
sion Act, 2012
Complete Act
Forest and Environment Department, Sikkim
Tamil Nadu For-
est Act 1882
Forest Areas 26. (d) regulate or prohibit the cutting, sawing, conservation and removal
of trees
and timber and the collection and removal of natural produce;
Tamil Nadu
Preservation of
Private Forest
Act 1949
Forest Areas Complete Act
Tamil Nadu Hill
Areas (Preser-
vation of Trees)
Act. 1955
Forest Areas. Trees in
non-forest areas
Complete Act
Directorate of Town and Country Planning
Tamil Nadu
Town and Coun-
try Planning Act,
1971
Local Urban Areas, metro-
politan areas, regional level
15. Regional Plan
(e) demarcation, conservation and development of areas of natural scenic
beauty, forest, wild life, natural resources and landscaping;
(f) demarcation of objects and buildings of archaeological or historical
interest or of natural beauty, or actually used for religious purposes or
regarded by the public with veneration;
20. Contents of detailed development plan
(m) the demarcation of places or objects and buildings of archaeological
or historical interest or natural scenic beauty or actually used for religious
purposes or regarded by the public with veneration, or the protection of
canal, tank or river sides,
coastal areas and other places of natural or landscape beauty; A Research Project for NITI Aayog | 189
24. Telangana
Act Application Heritage Protection Clause
Telangana Department of Heritage
Telangana Heri-
tage (Protection,
Preservation,
Conservation
and Mainte-
nance) Act, 2017
Ancient historical monu-
ments, archaeological sites,
excavation sites, - 348 and
additional areas may be de-
clared as per act sculptures,
carvings
Complete Act
Hyderabad
Ancient Mon-
uments Pres-
ervation Act
(Hyderabad Act
VIII of 1337 F.)
Complete Act
Municipal Administration and Urban Development Department
Telangana Urban
Areas (Develop-
ment) Act, 1975*
Local Urban Areas *Andhra Pradesh Urban Areas (Development) Act, 1975 was adapted to
the state of Telangana on 31.10.2015
View from the Golconda Fort, Telangana; Source - DRONAH 190 |Challenges faced in Heritage Management in India and Policy Imperatives
25. Tripura
Act Application Heritage Protection Clause
No Department
The Tripura
Ancient Mon-
uments and
Archaeological
Sites and Re-
mains Act, 1997
Ancient historical monu-
ments, archaeological sites,
excavation sites, sculptures,
carvings
Complete Act
Urban Development Department
Tripura Urban
Planning and
Development
Act 2018
Local Urban Areas, metro-
politan areas, regional level
Regional Plans
58. vi. Preservation, conservation and development of areas of natural
scenery, forest, wild life, natural resources, landscaping, heritage site and
control of development, which is either affecting the heritage site or its
vicinity;
vii. Preservation of objects, features, structure or places of historical, nat-
ural, architectural or scientific interest, educational value and heritage site;
72. Control of development and use of land in the area where masterplan
is in operation
Provided that except in the case of development, affecting heritage site or
its vicinity, no such permission shall be necessary
Town Development Schemes
83. (i) preservation and protection of objects of historical importance or
national interest, natural beauty or heritage site; A Research Project for NITI Aayog | 191
26. Uttar Pradesh
Act Application Heritage Protection Clause
Uttar Pradesh Directorate of Archaeology and Museums
The U.P. Ancient
and Historical
Mon uments
and Archaeo-
logical Sites and
Remains Preser-
vation Act, 1956
Ancient historical monu-
ments, archaeological sites,
excavation sites, sculptures,
carvings - 145 protected
Complete Act
Uttar Pradesh Forest Department
U.P. Protection
of Trees Act,
1976
Forest Areas and urban
vegetation
Complete Act
Town and Country Planning Department
Uttar Pradesh
Urban Planning
and Develop-
ment Act, 1973
Local Urban Areas, metro-
politan areas, regional level
Town Planning Schemes
3 (j) The preservation of objects of historical, architectural, archaeological,
or national interest or natural beauty
27. Uttarakhand
Act Application Heritage Protection Clause
Uttarakhand Directorate of Culture
47 protected The State follows the 1956 Act of Uttar Pradesh under the ratification of
the Reorganisation Act, 2000.
Town and Country Planning Department
Uttarakhand (UP) Urban Planning and Devel-
opment Act, 1973
Same as Uttar Pradesh with amendment in 2013 192 |Challenges faced in Heritage Management in India and Policy Imperatives
28. West Bengal
Act Application Heritage Protection Clause
West Bengal Directorate of Archaeology and Museums
The West Ben-
gal Preservation
of Historical
Monuments and
Objects and
Excavation of
Archaeological
Sites Act, 1957
Ancient historical monu-
ments, archaeological sites,
excavation sites, sculptures,
carvings - 106 protected
Complete Act
West Bengal Heritage Commission
The West Bengal
Heritage Com-
mission Act,
2001
Complete Act
West Bengal Forest Department
The West Ben-
gal Trees (Pro-
tection and
Conservation in
Non-Forest Ar-
eas) Act 2006
Trees in non-forest areasComplete Act
The West Bengal
Land Develop-
ment and Plan-
ning Act, 1948
Local Urban Areas, metro-
politan areas, regional level
No clause for heritage protection A Research Project for NITI Aayog | 193
28. West Bengal
Act Application Heritage Protection ClauseHeritage
Protected
Under It
Department of Urban Development & Municipal Affairs
The West Bengal
Town & Country
(Planning & De-
velopment) Act,
1979
Local Urban Areas,
metropolitan areas,
regional level
No clause for heritage protection
Temple at Bishnupur, West Bengal; Source - DRONAH 194 |Challenges faced in Heritage Management in India and Policy Imperatives
B.3 Union Territories Acts
2. Jammu & Kashmir, Ladakh
Act Application Heritage Protection Clause
Jammu and Kashmir Directorate of Archives, Archaeology and Museums
Ancient Monu-
ments Preserva-
tion Act, Samvat
1977, amend-
ment in 2010
Ancient historical monu-
ments, archaeological sites,
excavation sites, sculptures,
carvings - 57 and additional
areas/ monuments
Complete Act
J&K Forest Con-
servation Act
1997
Forest Areas Complete Act
J&K Town Plan-
ning Act 1963
Local Urban Areas, metro-
politan areas, regional level
3. Matters that may be dealt with in a scheme.—
(m) the preservation of objects and buildings of archaeological or historic
interest or of natural beauty or actually used for religious purposes or re-
garded by the public with special religious veneration ;
J&K Develop-
ment Act, 1970
Local Urban Areas, metro-
politan areas, regional level
No clause for heritage protection
1. Delhi
Act Application Heritage Protection Clause
Delhi Department of Archaeology
Delhi Ancient
and Historical
Monuments and
Archaeological
Sites and Re-
mains Act - 2004
Ancient historical monu-
ments, archaeological sites,
excavation sites, sculptures,
carvings - 18 protected
Complete Act
Delhi Forest Department
The Delhi Pres-
ervation of Trees
Act, 1994
Trees in non-forest areasComplete Act A Research Project for NITI Aayog | 195
Mubarak Mandi, Jammu, Jammu & Kashmir; Source - DRONAH 196 |Challenges faced in Heritage Management in India and Policy Imperatives
Ministry/
Department
Notification/
Byelaws
Application
MoEFCC CRZ Notification,
1991
Notification of 1991 is applicable to the coastal stretches of seas, bays, estuaries,
creeks, rivers and backwaters, influenced by the tidal action up to 500 meters
from High Tide Line (HTL) and land between Low Tide Line (LTL). It mandated
the State Governments and the Union Territories to draw up the Coastal Zone
Management Plan (CZMP) to identify and classify the Coastal Regulation Zone
within their respective territories. Powers were also vested under the Notification
of 1991 to the State Governments, Union Territories and Local authorities to
regulate developmental activities within the CRZ.
MOEF Notification,
2003
C. Notifications and Byelaws
This section covers the notifications and heritage bye-
laws under departments at several levels.
3. Pondicherry
Act Application Heritage Protection Clause
No Acts 21
Town and Country Planning Department
The Pondicherry
Town & Coun-
try Planning Act,
1969
Local Urban Areas, metro-
politan areas, regional level
Contents of Detailed Development Plan
28.2(m) preservation of places or objects and buildings of archaeologi-
cal or historic interest or of natural beauty or actually used for religious
purposes or regarded by the public with special religious veneration; or
protection of canal, tank or river sides, coastal areas and other places of
natural or landscape beauty;
Union TerritoryActs
4. Dadra and Nagar Haveli and Daman and Diu Same as Goa
5.LakshadweepNo Acts
6. Andaman and Nicobar Islands A Research Project for NITI Aayog | 197
Ministry/
Department
Notification/
Byelaws
Application
MoC/ASI NMA Rules 2011 The rules provide certain parameters which shall be considered for the prepara-
tion of the Heritage Bye-laws.
• 20 E (1) – The competent authority, in consultation with Indian National Trust
for Arts and Cultural Heritage, being a trust registered under the Indian Trusts
Act, 1882 (2 of 1882) or such other expert heritage bodies as may be notified
by the Central Government, shall prepare heritage bye-laws in respect of each
protected monuments and protected area.
• 20 E (2) – The heritage bye-laws referred to in sub-section (1) shall, in addition
to such matters as may be prescribed, include matters relating to heritage con-
trols such a elevation, facades, drainage systems, roads and service infrastructure
(including electric poles, water and sewer pipelines)
• 20 E (3) – The Central Government shall, by rules, specify the manner of
preparation of detailed sited plans in respect of each protected area or protect-
ed monument or prohibited area or regulated area, the time within which such
heritage bye-laws shall be prepared and particulars to be included in each such
heritage bye-laws.
• 20 E (4) – The competent authority for the purpose of preparation of detailed
site plans and heritage by-laws may appoint such number of experts or consul-
tants as it may deem fit.
• 20 E (5) – A copy of each of the heritage bye-laws are prepared under sub-sec-
tion (1) shall be forwarded to the Authority for its approval.
• 20 E (6) – A copy of the heritage by-laws as approved by the Authority under
sub-section 5 shall be laid before each House of Parliament.
Model Heritage Reg-
ulations, 2011
To safeguard, conserve, restore, manage, and maintain the heritage of India’s cit-
ies, towns and villages, while regulating interventions and development activities
having an impact on the heritage. They shall apply to heritage sites which shall
be listed, graded and notified by the State Government under these Regulations,
which are not under the purview of Archaeological Survey of India or State
Archaeological Departments (hereinafter referred to as Heritage Zones, Listed
Heritage Sites, Listed Heritage Precincts, and Listed Heritage Structures). 198 |Challenges faced in Heritage Management in India and Policy Imperatives
Ministry/
Department
Notification/
Byelaws
Application
MoUD, TCPO Model Building Bye-
laws 2016
Ch 3. Development Codes – 3.1.1 Additional FAR
Locational attributes, of the site being assigned additional FAR, refer to its loca-
tion with respect to land use as given in the approved Master/Zonal/Layout Plan
(as the case may be), accessibility, level of congestion on the approach road and
nearness to a heritage building if any.
Ch 12. Conservation of Heritage Sites including Heritage Buildings, Heritage
Precincts and Natural Feature Areas
Delhi
Development
Authority
Delhi Urban Her-
itage Foundation
Regulations, 1999
These regulations have been formulated under the Delhi Development Act, 1957
with the aim
to frame and implement policies for conservation of Built and Natural heritage
in the capital city (Delhi) which needs to be protected, nourished and nurtured by
all citizens and pass it on to the coming generations.
To promote conservation of the civic and urban heritage
c) To protect and improve environmental assets of the city such as Riverfront,
city wall, gates, bridges, vistas, public places, edicts and rock cut formation.
(d) To conserve and improve historically significant streets and roofscapes.
(e) To promote reuse of old buildings for appropriate utilisation.
(f) To promote conservations as an attitude to the City’s urban development pro-
cess.
(g) To provide assistance to individuals, institutions and NGOs in their efforts to
save all or in parts components of urban heritage.
(h) Conservation of heritage buildings, heritage zones and areas of significant
value.
(i) To recommend guidelines related to special areas as designated by the Foun-
dation.
(j) To review the policies and programmes of areas as desi by the Foundation of
the Heritage and Development.
(k) To prepare, examine and review the proposals and policies as related to the
heritage. A Research Project for NITI Aayog | 199
D. Manuals, Guidelines and Toolkits
Several organisations, departments, NGOs, institutions
have their own manuals with certain guidelines for her-
itage listing and protection. Among government sector,
CPWD has a manual for Heritage Conservation at the
central level and MoHUA/Ministry of Tourism have
introduced guidelines and toolkits for specific heritage
programmes such as HRIDAY and Adopt a Heritage.
DepartmentManual/ToolkitsApplicationJurisdiction
CPWD Handbook on Con-
servation of Heri-
tage Buildings
The handbook covers the criteria for Listing of Heritage Build-
ings, methodology of listing, grading of heritage buildings,
model building bye-laws, conservation and preservation tech-
niques.
50
MoHUA HRIDAY Toolkit Tangible heritage assets listed in the 12 HRIDAY cities under
City HRIDAY Plan
12 HRIDAY
Cities
Ministry of
Tourism
Adopt a Heritage
Guidelines
ASI and State Protected Monuments under Adopt a Heritage
Scheme
Conservation Handbook by CPWD; Source - cpwd.gov.inPoster of the Adopt a Heritage Scheme; Source - adoptaheritage.in 200 |Challenges faced in Heritage Management in India and Policy Imperatives
E. Master Plans and Legislations for
Urban Heritage
A brief overview on master plans of several cities in
India is given here to understand if heritage has been
taken into consideration or not.
City Department Application/ Heritage Recommendations/ Regulations
Bhubaneswar
ChandigarhChandigarh Master Plan 2031
Many recommendations for heritage have been mentioned in the Master Plan
to conserve its outstanding planning as a post-independence modern city, ur-
ban character of commercial and residential sectors, green areas and iconic
modern heritage structures which are graded and monitored under a Heritage
Conservation Committee.
Shimla Town and Country
Planning Depart-
ment
The areas/buildings in Shimla and Chamba on account of their distinct archi-
tectural design features have been identified and notified as Heritage Zones/
Buildings. Heritage Regulations are in force in respect of Heritage Zone of
Shimla Planning Area. The Heritage Advisory Committee for the Heritage Area
of Shimla Planning Area has also been constituted vide Govt. Notification No.
TCP-F(5)-5/2016-11 dated 02.02.2016. The Archaeological Survey of India
has amended the Ancient Monuments and Archaeological Sites and Remains
Act, 1958(Amendments and Validation) Act, 2010 vide which monuments hav-
ing unique heritage background have been
identified and listed for their conservation and presentation. The Government
is determined to ensure that no construction, including public projects takes
place within the prohibited areas around the monuments of natural impor-
tance. In view of said amendment in Central Act, the Heritage regulations are
being re-examined and notified in the Interim Development Plan of Shimla
Planning Area.
Shimla Municipal
Corporation
Shimla Municipal Corporation is responsible for maintenance of heritage
buildings.
Hyderabad Hyderabad Urban
Development Au-
thority (HUDA)
Hyderabad Heritage Regulations. 1995 and Heritage Conservation Committee
in 1996. Main works involve listing and grading of heritage buildings and pre-
cincts with conservation.
Regulation 13 also provided for alterations in notified lists after inviting objec-
tions and suggestions from the public. A Research Project for NITI Aayog | 201
City Department Application/ Heritage Recommendations/ Regulations
The Regulations require that any modifications, additions or demolitions to
Heritage Buildings and in Heritage Precincts must be done after taking prior
permission from the Vice Chairman, HUDA who in turn must consult the
HCC.
The Regulations also make it clear that maintenance and repair of heritage
buildings is the responsibility of respective owners.
The incentives include grant of Transferable Development Rights (TDR) in
case of loss of Development Rights.
Hyderabad Metro Area Master Plan 2003-2021 was notified in April 2008 laid
down general regulations for the listed heritage buildings and precincts similar
to model heritage regulations by GoI.
Sites specifically earmarked as heritage conser-vation-buildings and
precincts/areas and rocks and hillocks/natural heritage got included as Special
Reservation Use Zones in the Master Plan.
The master plan also has provisions to relax other zoning regulations in the
interest of her-itage conservation subject to approval from the government
and in the interest of conser-vation of the heritage buildings and adaptive re-
use with concurrence from the heritage committee. Special Area Development
Projects (SADP) to include certain urban design heritage and environmental
guidelines for infrastructure upgradation and overall area improvement.
In heritage precincts too, guidelines are in place for new developments.
Provisions have been made for architectural and façade control regulations to
be prepared separately and im-plemented by Greater Hyderabad Municipal
Corporation for specified heritage zones.
Surat Surat Heritage Policy
2011
Listing undertaken by UMC but no legislation for protection.
Vadodara Vadodara Urban
Heritage and Renew-
al Cell, 2012. VMC
A Heritage Cell was initiated in 2012 but no legislation is in force. 202 |Challenges faced in Heritage Management in India and Policy Imperatives
City Department Application/ Heritage Recommendations/ Regulations
Ahmedabad Ahmedabad Heritage
Cell, 1996 - Ahmed-
abad Municipal Cor-
poration
Approximately 2200 listed structures are protected under the Ahmedabad De-
velopment Plan 2031
The Heritage Management Plan is under process for Ahmedabad as per its
commitment to UNESCO during its World Heritage Inscription. Along with
the Heritage Management Plan, a visitor management plan, local area plan for
conservation of wooden historic houses, documentation of historic buildings
and detailed assessment of the extent and impact of the new constructions and
development projects on the western section of the city ne ed to be incorpo-
rated for a holistic report.
Jaipur Jaipur Nagar Nigam
Heritage (JNNH)
Municip -alities Act
(1970)
Jaipur Heritage
Management Plan
(JHMP) 2007 and its
inclusion in Master
Development Plan
MDP 2025
JNNH is a focused bifurcation of Jaipur Municipality for Heritage and De-
velopment works in the Jaipur walled city area which is inscribed on World
Heritage List since 2019. While it has 1500 plus heritage struc tures listed and
protected as part of JHMP 2007 and MDP2025; a Special Area Heritage Plan
covering all aspects of the historic is in process under MDP as per commitment
to the World Heritage Committee and will be duly legislated on completion.
Mumbai
Conservation
and Heritage
Legislation
Heritage Cell –
Mumbai Municipal
Corporation
Mumbai Heritage
Conservation Com-
mittee – MMC
Mumbai Conservation and Heritage Legislation.
Mumbai became India’s first city to amend the Development Control Rules
by introducing Regulation 67 and legalizing Heritage Regulations for Greater
Bombay. A total of 633 structures and precincts have been identified by the
Mumbai Heritage Conservation Committee.
Two major incentives to heritage property owners were introduced in the final
regulation in 1995; while the ‘change of use’ for heritage building was made
permissible, the other inventive was the Transfer of Development Rights,
which entitled the owner of a building to claim an equivalent amount of area in
the form of TDR certificate, which can be used in the same ward from which
it has originated or sold for its value in the property market. Also, a repair fund
was proposed for cessed buildings. The Mumbai Heritage Conservation Com-
mittee was constituted under the Urban and Regional Planning legislation. It
empowered the Heritage Committee to recommend modifications to or relax. A Research Project for NITI Aayog | 203
City Department Application/ Heritage Recommendations/ Regulations
ation of any other building control regulations that may impede the objective
to conserve the heritage
MatheranDraft Regulation for conservation of sites/ features/ precincts/ areas/ proper-
ties/ buildings in Matheran Eco Sensitive Zone. It covers:
1. Restriction on development/ redevelopment/ repairs
2. Preparation of a list of heritage structures
3. Special regulations/ guidelines for listed sites in consultation with the HCC
4. Road widening
5. Master plan/ Regional Plan/ Development Plan Reservations
6.Power to alter/ modify or relax other development control regulations/
building byelaws
7. Restriction on development of listed sites/ features/ precincts/ areas/ prop-
erties/ buildings of the heritage list
8. Incentive uses for heritage buildings
9. Maintaining skyline, beauty and architectural harmony
10. Repair Fund
11. Grading of the listed sites
12. Special regulations for ensuring high standards of townscape detail and
planting
13. Signage and street furniture
Mahableshwar Municipal Council
Urban Development
Department
Mahabaleshwar Heritage Regulations, 2015 This regulation shall be known as
Regulation for conservation of buildings, artifacts, structures areas and pre-
cincts of historic and/or architectures and/or aesthetic and/or cultural signifi-
cance (heritage and heritage precincts) and/or natural features of environmen-
tal significance or sites of scenic beauty including viewpoints, walks, ride, and
bride path for Mahabaleshwar Municipal Council. These regulations cover:
1. Restriction on Development/ Re-development/ Repairs etc
2. Responsibility of the owners of Heritage Buildings
3. Preparation of List of Heritage Buildings, Heritage Precincts and Listed
Natural Features
4. Special Bye-Laws or Guidelines for Heritage Precincts/ Streets/ Natural Fea-
tures in Consultation with the Heritage Committee.
5. Power to Alter, Modify or Relax other Development Control Regulations/
Building Bye-Laws.
6. Restriction on Development of Heritage Precincts or Listed 204 |Challenges faced in Heritage Management in India and Policy Imperatives
City Department Application/ Heritage Recommendations/ Regulations
7. Penalties
8. Incentive uses for Heritage Buildings
9. Maintaining Skyline
10. Restrictive Covenants
11. Heritage Conservation Fund
12. Grading of Listed Buildings/ Precincts
13. Signage and Street Furniture
Nagpur Urban Development
Department
Nagpur Heritage Regulations, 2003 with amendment in 2004.
The regulations are similar to Mahabaleshwar and Matheran.
Panchgani Urban Development
Department
Panchgani Heritage Regulations, 2013. The regulations are similar to Ma-
habaleshwar and Matheran.
PuneHeritage Committee and Heritage Cell
NashikHeritage Committee and Heritage Cell
AmritsarMaster Plan
LehLeh Perspective Plan 1989-2009
Delhi Delhi Development
Authority
The Delhi Master Plan 2021 covers:
1. Identification of heritage zones and archaeological parks.
2. Development of Special Conservation Plans for listed building and pre-
cincts. The development plans/ schemes for such areas shall conform to the
provisions, in respect of Conservation of Heritage Sites including Heritage
Buildings, Heritage Precincts and Natural Feature Areas.
Kolkata Kolkata Municipal
Corporation
The Kolkata Municipal Corporation Act, 1980 amended up to 2015.
425. Preservation and Conservation of Heritage Buildings
425A. Owner to maintain, preserve and con-serve heritage building.
425B. Power of Corporation to declare a build-ing as a heritage building.
425C. Gradation or heritage building.
425D. Heritage Conservation Committee.
425E. Powers and functions of Heritage Con-servation Committee.
425F, Power of Corporation to require, pur-chase or take on lease heritage
building.
The Kolkata Municipal Corporation Act, 1980 amended up to 2015.
425. Preservation and Conservation of Heritage Buildings
425A. Owner to maintain, preserve and con-serve heritage building.
425B. Power of Corporation to declare a build-ing as a heritage building. A Research Project for NITI Aayog | 205
Partition Museum, Town Hall, Amritsar; Source - DRONAH
City Department Application/ Heritage Recommendations/ Regulations
425C. Gradation or heritage building.
425D. Heritage Conservation Committee.
425E. Powers and functions of Heritage Con-servation Committee
425F, Power of Corporation to require, pur-chase or take on lease heritage
building.
425G. Transfer of right of development for the purpose of acquisition by
agreement. 425H. Right of access to heritage building acquired by Corporation 206 |Challenges faced in Heritage Management in India and Policy Imperatives
City Department Application/ Heritage Recommendations/ Regulations
Kolkata4251. Sub-lease of heritage building.
425J. Permission of concerned department of State Government before acqui-
sition of herit-age building.
425K. Power to exempt rales and taxes, ctc. a heritage building.
425L. Agreement with owner of heritage build-ing pending acquisition.
425M, Voluntary contribution and agreement with any voluntary organisation,
person or company.
425N. Taking over management and control of heritage building.
4250. When heritage building ceases to be her-itage building.
425P. Penalty.
Howrah Howrah Municipal
Corporation
The Howrah Municipal Corporation Act, 1980
183. Preservation and Conservation of Heritage Buildings
183C. The gradation of heritage building according to its historical, Architec-
tural, environmental, ecological purpose shall be such as may be prescribed.
183D. (1) The Mayor-in-Council shall constitute a Committee to be called the
Heritage Conservation Committee with the Commissioner as its Chairman and
an officer of the Corporation as its Convenor.
183E. The Heritage Conservation Committee shall have the power to func-
tion independently for the purpose of preservation, conservation of a heritage
building in so far as such power does not offend any other provisions of this
Act or the rules made thereunder relating to construction or use of building.
183F. Subject to the other provisions of this Act the Corporation may acquire
purchase or take on lease any heritage building for the purpose of preservation
and conservation thereof.
Bangalore Directorate of Town
and Country Plan-
ning
Bangalore Development Authority Act 1976 –
Local Urban Areas, Metropolitan Areas
51. Constitution of Art Commission
(i) restoration and conservation of urban design and of the environment in the
development areas
iii) the restoration and conservation of archaeological and historical sites and
sites of high scenic beauty
Bangalore Metropolitan Regional Development Authority Act, 1985 – Local
Urban Areas - No clause for heritage protection A Research Project for NITI Aayog | 207
City Department Application/ Heritage Recommendations/ Regulations
Hampi world
Heritage Site
The Hampi World Heritage Area Management Authority Act, 2002 – Complete
Act: An Act to provide for conservation of the cultural heritage of Hampi
with all its archaeological remains and natural environs; to preserve its cultural
identity and to ensure sustainable development of the Hampi World Heritage
Area, in the State of Karnataka and to constitute Hampi World Heritage Area
Management Authority
Compendium of Good Practices: Urban Heritage in Indian Cities; Source - NIUA 208 |Challenges faced in Heritage Management in India and Policy Imperatives
F. Inferences
A comprehensive review of all conventions, charters,
policies, acts, and rules from international to national,
state and local level in India indicate the following is-
sues:
1. India’s World Heritage Sites and Sites on the Tenta-
tive List are well protected since ASI as the nodal agen-
cy ensures that adequate protection and management
systems are in place for each site as per UNESCO Op-
erational Guidelines for World Heritage. Among India’s
32 cultural World Heritage sites, 25 are protected under
the AMASR Act, 2010 by the Archaeological Survey
of India. The Mountain Railways are protected by the
Central Ministry of Railways, while the remaining 6 cul-
tural sites fall under various state and local government
protection frameworks in Chandigarh, Gujarat and
Ahmedabad, Maharashtra and Mumbai, Rajasthan and
Jaipur. The mixed site of Khangchendzonga National
Park and the seven natural sites are all protected by the
Forest Departments.
2. The ASI (AMASR Act, 2010) and subsequent State
Archaeology Acts under the respective State Depart-
ments are the primary source of protection for India’s
most significant National Heritage. However, they only
cover approximately 8000 structures (3693 under ASI
and 4377 across the states). While it is encouraging that
both ASI and State Departments of Archaeology are
annually including more sites under their Archaeology
Acts yet the required number for protection is far from
being achieved. Moreover, the resources of these De-
Conservation of Neer Mahal, Tripura; Source - Samvida Rai A Research Project for NITI Aayog | 209
partments are limited for handling the number of mon-
uments and sites already protected under them.
3. India has no national, state or local level recognition
or protection for certain categories such as cultural
landscapes, routes and historic cities even though these
categories exist in the World Heritage List and Tenta-
tive List of India. The National Cultural Heritage Sites
Listing adopted by Ministry of Culture in 2015 recog-
nising Outstanding National Value of sites including
such categories was a good initiative that needs to be
implemented. A national level field organisation dealing
with the non-archaeological heritage is not present – it
needs to be incorporated as per recommendations in
the NITI Aayog report 2020.
4. India has no National level legislation/charter/policy
for Underwater Archaeological Heritage even though
being a peninsular country it has incredibly significant
sites under this category. While it may decide to be a
signatory to the UNESCO Convention for Underwater
Archaeology in due course, the need to first strengthen
this category and its protection at National level is most
urgent.
5. Archaeological heritage requires a slightly more
guarded policy/policies than for monuments visible
above the ground, since we are only able to report or
analyse data that becomes available to us. This can be
through archaeological (including university research)
work, or rescue / salvage archaeology, or chance / un-
expected discoveries. At best, the state of our current
knowledge on our archaeological heritage is an incom-
plete picture.
Similarly, the occurrence of what local people or ca-
sual visitors consider a dull boring stone platform, or
chabutra, that is ascribed or thought to have lesser value
than the discovery of gold coins or jewellery or sculp-
ture, or carved ivory combs, is not necessarily the case.
This is because the plain platform may be an above-
ground remain of a much more important and signifi-
cant site that lies beneath public view under the ground.
Excavations at Sinauli have revealed bronze chariots
and accompanying artefacts. It strengthens the case
for according protection to archaeological remains and
their systematic excavation and analysis.
Issue of survival of certain types of materials in the ar-
chaeological record, and the availability of certain types
of building materials or resources affects whatgets pre-
served in the archaeological record. So Assam and the
northeast, or Bengal may have used less stone, due to
availability, and more of perishable wood, or combina-
tions of wood, brick and fortified mud as compared to
regions, geographical areas. This will give a semi-accu-
rate picture of the archaeological values inherent in the
discovered remains. (Ref lists of State Protected Ar-
chaeological Sites).
In the case of data coming from different years, decades
and even centuries of field surveys, what the surveying
party looked for became part of the report. The reports
reflect the focus areas and maybe even topics prevalent
in those decades. Today, we have better tools for under-
standing and analysing in-situ archaeological remains,
which can give us more knowledge about our past. So,
for example, we may find inscriptions were reported in 210 |Challenges faced in Heritage Management in India and Policy Imperatives
some earlier reports but in contrast the pottery remains
or bone or plant at the site got ignored.
For Archaeological Sites & Remains (including mounds,
excavated sites & remains), especially those not accord-
ed protection, the greatest threat is the physical destruc-
tion &/or massive disturbance of sites. This is mainly
due to causes like construction work and building at
sites, quarrying and excavation for raw materials, and
tractor ploughing. Such actions destroy a valuable part
of India’s early heritage.
For example, stone age sites are usually not considered
important by the average citizen or perhaps a local body
deciding on development infra-structure. Thus, these
are built on, dug up, or their vicinity blasted for stone
etc.
The fact is that such pre-historic stone age sites (deemed
less ‘news-worthy’) enable our clearer understanding of
India’s pre-historic cultural and trade linkages across re-
gions, foods, habitations, ecological adaptations, transi-
tion to agriculture, beginning of metal technology and
early art. The loss of each site means the loss of data
on our own past.
6. While certain Municipalities Act (Rajasthan Mu-
nicipalities Act 1970) catered for protection of urban
heritage character of the cities since 1970s in terms of
colour and façade controls, formal inclusion of urban
heritage in town planning was initiated in 1995 through
the Mumbai and Hyderabad Municipal Acts at city lev-
el to be subsequently incorporated in the State Town
Planning Acts along with creation of Model Byelaws
1995 by MoeFCC. These are finally revised and are now
part of the Model Building Byelaws, MBBL 2016 by
TCPO and MoHUA. This is a benchmark for conserv-
ing urban heritage in historic Indian cities and must be
adopted and implemented by all state government and
city municipalities under their acts.
7. Most of the existing State Town and Country Plan-
ning Acts do not have a heritage related clause/legisla-
tion. These need to be amended urgently. Most of the
states do not have a nodal department/Commission for
dealing with non-archaeological heritage. Heritage Cells
need to be established in all cities under the Municipal-
ities Act.
8. As already outlined in the NITI Aayog Heritage Re-
port 2020, the byelaws to be prepared by NMA (Na-
tional Monuments Authority) under AMASR 2010 for
the regulated zones around 3692 ASI protected sites are
mostly pending and need to be expedited.
Dilapidated Structures on the Ghats of
Varanasi; Source - DRONAH A Research Project for NITI Aayog | 211 212 |Challenges faced in Heritage Management in India and Policy Imperatives A Research Project for NITI Aayog | 213
5
Challenges & Policy
Imperatives for
India’s Heritage 214 |Challenges faced in Heritage Management in India and Policy Imperatives A Research Project for NITI Aayog | 215
Lakshmi Narayan Temple, Orchha;
Source - Samvida Rai
A. Challenges and Recommendations for
Heritage Management in India
The quantum of our built heritage is very vast and, they belong to different
layers of history of the country. It is important to realise that most of these
are living and continuing so, a more local and indigenous approach is required
for its conservation and reuse as opposed to the conventional western charters
or minimal intervention practiced for monumental heritage. It also needs to
be recognised that our built heritage requires integration into the mainstream
development of towns and cities for its long-term sustainability. It can serve as
an important socio-economic tool for development if its cultural and economic
value is realised in its contextual setting. Barring archaeological sites, where re-
use can lead to loss of unrecorded data. This caveat applies even if the sites have
been previously excavated since none of our sites can be said to have yielded up
all the information about the past.
Separator Image: Unakoti Hill, Tripura;
Source - Samvida Rai 216 |Challenges faced in Heritage Management in India and Policy Imperatives
ChallengesRecommendations
1. Creation of a National
Heritage Database and Docu-
menting Archaeological Remains
in the Country
An open national level web portal with basic information of the 100000
structures annexed with this report will serve as a useful reference for all
heritage stakeholders.
There are two pan India initiatives for creating a National Listing or
National Register for unprotected structures. The annexure of 100000
structures inventoried in this report and additional list may be taken as
a reference by NMMA and INTACH to supplement the gaps in their
ongoing listing. More state level and local government organisations and
NGOs need to be involved in supporting these bodies to prepare a Na-
tional Register using advanced geospatial mapping. As indicated by IN-
TACH, the list needs to be periodically updated.
The number of archaeological sites and remains whether protected by
the mandates given to the ASI, or states, or other bodies, or whether
unprotected is, literally, only the tip of the iceberg. Any archaeological
mound, site, cave, surface scatter, or remains of habitations or structures
contains an unknown, and therefore yet to be quantified and analyzed
body of information. This information is mainly under the surface. Thus,
a significant bulk of India’s past needs to continue to be recorded and the
data used to create a fuller picture of our heritage.
More field surveys, whether physical, or through or aerial (including
drones), or via techniques like LIDAR, or other techniques, are strongly
recommended in a systematic planned manner across the country. Such
surveys have been revealing fresh data and finds across the world - El
Mirador in Central America being an example of a complete unknown
mega-city discovered through the use of LIDAR technology.
India will gain from having a fresh, 21st century extensive planned survey
and review of its known archaeological sites, mounds, rescue or salvage
discoveries, maritime and terrestrial find-spots that have revealed coins, A Research Project for NITI Aayog | 217
ChallengesRecommendations
sculpture hoards, etc. The template for recording data will need revision.
Nationally, prehistoric stone tools, rock art of all periods, brick remains
etc are being destroyed at a rapid pace since the importance or value of
this part of our national heritage is not popularly understood.
Data found unexpectedly and then worked on systematically does reveal
information like the case of Sanauli /Sinauli (excavated in 2017-2018, but
found earlier. The IGNCA has listed 8000 plus sites in its data base, but
the point remains that the Recording agency or individual records what is
either available to see above the ground, or what locals have identified or
shared as important. Beneath surface data is not always covered. Hence
constant field surveys by professionals (even before we get to the excava-
tion stage) is needed, and this has been revealing remarkable unexpected
data in India, the UK, Egypt etc. An entire unknown Bronze Age culture
(Jiroft civilization) with 2 so far undeciphered scripts has been found by
chance and then is being excavated in the 21st century to reveal remark-
able data.
2. Legislation for the
Unprotected Heritage and
Recognition of New Types
Built Heritage categories such as cultural landscapes, heritage routes and
historic cities needs to be recognised at the National level. The National
Cultural Heritage Sites Listing adopted by Ministry of Culture in 2015
recognising Outstanding National Value of sites including such catego-
ries was a good initiative that needs to be implemented.
Protection of our built heritage is essential and part of our Constitutional
commitment. The enclosed annexure of 100000 plus heritage structures
should be reviewed and the unprotected heritage structures need to be
protected under appropriate heritage legislation at central, state or local
level. 218 |Challenges faced in Heritage Management in India and Policy Imperatives
ChallengesRecommendations
3. Policy for an Indian
Conservation Approach for our
Living Heritage and Adaptive
Reuse
More than following any top down or western approach for conservation
(including Archaeology Acts in the country), a special policy needs to
be framed considering that more than 80 percent of our built heritage
is in the form of living religious structures. Guidelines need to incor-
porate age-old traditions and texts such as the ‘jirnodhara’ chapters in
the Agamashastras and other traditional text for temples or similar con-
tem- porary texts for Buddhist monasteries or Jain temples pertaining to
their practices. Similar approach needs to be followed for other religious
structures.
Such an approach requires concerted research and should be addressed
in a collaborative manner by the Central and State Government Depart-
ments, Religious Trusts and Regional Institutions under the new Na-
tional Education Policy (NEP2020) to arrive at an appropriate Policy for
the Living Heritage of India.
Our built heritage is a non-renewable resource which requires to be used
in a meaningful manner to retain its value in the contemporary society.
Based on the history, typology and ownership of this built heritage, ap-
propriate reuse and interpretation is required to sustain this heritage.
4. Funding for ConservationAs per typology and prioritisation of the listed heritage in National Heri-
tage Database, funding and incentives need to be offered at central, state
and local level. Public Sector and Heritage Trusts should focus on PPP
and CSR funding for this purpose. Public Sector may also offer tax in-
centives to private heritage property owners for conserving their built
heritage.
5. Capacity Building Need for institutional collaborations for capacity building in conserva-
tion of built heritage is already outlined in NITI Aayog Report 2020.
Involvement of more NGOs working in cultural heritage as outlined on
page 142 of this report is needed. A Research Project for NITI Aayog | 219
Typology of protected/
unprotected Heritage
Current StatusPotential Reuse
Archaeological Sites (including
Underwater Archaeology)
There is no consolidated listing of
such sites though they exist in large
proportion. Only 10 sites are listed
in underwater archaeology by the
National Institute of Oceanography
ASI and State Archaeology De-
partments to prepare a database
using Drone/LIDAR technology
for complete mapping of archaeo-
logical sites. Unprotected mounds
to be declared protected across the
country
Historic Cities2 cities as World Heritage, 12 rec-
ognised under HRIDAY bit more
than 60 cities have historic areas
that need protection and conserva-
tion streamlined with development
works
MoHUA HRIDAY Scheme was a
success. Similar toolkit and guide-
lines to be followed for urban con-
servation in Smart Cities.
Local bodies of such cities need to
have a Heritage Cell and they should
adopt the Model Heritage Byelaws
by MoHUA
Cultural Landscapes and
Historic Gardens
No recognition of this category in
the country. Though India has abun-
dance of cultural landscapes includ-
ing 2 World Heritage Sites and more
on the Tentative List.
A National Policy/Act recognising
such built heritage categories need
to be framed for this special catego-
ry. Bhutan and several other coun-
tries have recognised this category
of built heritage
Religious Structures Largest numbers of Built Heritage
exist under this typology managed
by Temple Departments and trusts.
There is no protection or policy
guiding conservation of this typol-
ogy
Policy framework for conserving
the Living Heritage of India needs
to be framed in different contexts.
Water Systems and WaterbodiesHistoric water structures across
India (except protected ones) are
mostly in disuse and neglected
Need to be mapped and revived as
public spaces and replenishing or
partially supplementing existing wa-
ter supply systems
Table - Current Status and Potential Reuse of different typologies of Protected and Unprotected Built Heritage 220 |Challenges faced in Heritage Management in India and Policy Imperatives
Typology of protected/
unprotected Heritage
Current StatusPotential Reuse
Forts and Palaces, Military
Architecture
Protected ones are being conserved
but unprotected ones are being van-
dalised and vanishing.
Potential for Forts and Palaces Cir-
cuit for Tourism in various states
needs to be explored. ICOFORT
Draft Charter guidelines may be
used for future conservation.
Residential Structures (Havelis,
Houses and Mansions)
While there are some good mod-
els for Heritage Conservation by
private owners, most are getting
demolished to changed to newer
houses.
Awareness regarding cultural signif-
icance of this built heritage typol-
ogy is needed. Tax incentives to be
considered for encouraging conser-
vation of such buildings in historic
city cores.
Public Buildings and Public
Spaces
Most are in use and stand as iconic
landmarks of the city
Conservation, Reuse and enhancing
with interpretation and lighting for
these to remain as city landmarks
Memorials, Tombs and
Cenotaphs
Memorials, Tombs and Cenotaphs -
some converted into tourist sites
Such sites need to be developed as
recreational areas in a similar man-
ner as Lodhi Gardens in New Delhi.
Industrial Heritage StructuresMost of the pre independence and
post-independence are lying in dis-
use or being demolished at a fast
pace to be replaced by more ad-
vanced technologies
Reuse of old factories as social
housing in France or Rail line as a
Public Park in New York are good
examples of reusing industrial her-
itage in India.
Institutional Structures 19 institutions are recognised as her-
itage campuses but more need to be
covered under this category
More historic Institutions need to
be listed under this typology with
funding and incentives for the insti-
tutions. A Research Project for NITI Aayog | 221
Organisation and Heri-
tage Strcutures
Legislative and Ad-
ministrative Policies
Financial and Institutional Policies
Ministry of Culture
7 Museums,
14 Libraries,
39 sites under Gandhi
Heritage Sites Mission
with 2000 total listed
Several Sites such
as historic libraries,
Gandhi sites need to
be notified, conserved
and reused as cultural
spaces.
Develop National Policy including new cultural heritage
categories such as cultural landscapes and routes consider-
ing that ‘Sites of Satyagraha Movement’ are on the UNES-
CO Tentative List. Conservation Policy for Living Heritage
Sites to be framed.
Indian Institute of Heritage to be developed as a Nodal
Capacity Building Institute for Conservation
ASI 3693AMASR Act 2010 As per NITI Aayog Report 2020 (Improving Heritage Man-
agement in India)
MoHUA Historic cities
under HRIDAY
and SMART Cities
Model Heritage Bye-
laws need to be ad-
opted across cities in
India
Emphasis on Heritage
Toolkit Development
for all Smart Cities
NIUA (National Institute of Urban Affairs to be strength-
ened for capacity building in Urban Conservation and Her-
itage Management aspects.
CPWD 50 BuildingsMost are protectedCPWD to have a Heritage Cell and be involved in conser-
vation works for heritage buildings with various ministries
Ministry of RailwaysHeritage Charter, Her-
itage Codes developed
by Railways are good
models. Listed build-
ings should also be
notified.
Listed heritage structures to be conserved and reused as
public spaces and rail museums across the country
Ministry of ShippingTo be protected/ no-
tified
To be conserved and developed for coastal tourism
B. Central and State wise Recommendations
B.1 Central Bodies: Protected and Unprotected Heritage 222 |Challenges faced in Heritage Management in India and Policy Imperatives
Organisation and Heri-
tage Strcutures
Legislative and Ad-
ministrative Policies
Financial and Institutional Policies
Ministry of
Communications
To be protected/ no-
tified
Should have a Heritage Advisory Committee for guiding
conservation of listed heritage and selecting more from the
21000 old Post Offices
Ministry of I&B To be protected To identify buildings with heritage values, conserve and
reuse
Ministry of Education
19
Listed institutions to
be protected
Conservation funding and incentives to be provided. NEP
2020 Policy implementation for Culture to support capacity
building in conservation
MoEFCCProtected under Envi-
ronment Acts
To include built heritage components for listing and con-
servation in the naturally protected areas
Ministry of Youth Af-
fairs and Sports NIA +
Stadiums
To be protected Buildings to be listed and conservation works to be carried
out though a Heritage Advisory Cell/ CPWD
Ministry of Tourism
Promotional Programs
for India’s Heritage
Promoting Adoption of Built Heritage and Heritage Tour-
ism through new thematic circuits. Promoting built heritage
reuse as part of the ‘National Strategy and Roadmap for
Sustainable Tourism’
Ministry of External
Affairs
International support
for conserving build-
ings
More international collaborations for conser vation of Built
Heritage. Implementation of Project Mausam
Ministry of Defence 62
Cantonments
Heritage Clause in
existing Act to be en-
forced
Listing of buildings, conservation and reuse per function-
ing of existing cantonments. Military Museums to be pro-
posed for each cantonment.
Ministry of Mines – GSIListed heritage to be
protected
Geo Tourism circuits to be promoted across India
Ministry of Minority
Affairs 500000 plus
All heritage structures
to be protected
To list, document and conserve all heritage structures as
per traditional treatise and new proposed Policy for Living
Heritage of India A Research Project for NITI Aayog | 223
B.2 States and UTs: Protected and Unprotected Heritage
State/UT Potential
Number for
Unprotected
Institutions active
in Mapping or
Conserving
Heritage
Recommendations
Andaman and
Nicobar
Islands
10-15 no INTACH Cellular Jail on Tentative List to be proposed for UN-
ESCO Inscription. Lighthouse for Adaptive Reuse and
Heritage Tourism
Andhra Pradesh10000 plusPleach, INTACHEndowments Trust has 3000 plus temples that need to
be listed. 1553 archaeological sites and 200 plus forts
and palaces that can be conserved with adaptive reuse
by Andhra Tourism and Culture Heritage Board and
Archaeology Department
Arunachal
Pradesh
20 plus cultur-
al landscapes
Ngunu Ziro Has 2 sites on tentative list to be inscribed as World
Heritage. The State should frame a Cultural Landscape
protection act/policy for its heritage.
Assam 2700 plusGuwahati
Cotton University,
Guwahati Universi-
ty, Public University
in Guwahati
Dibrugarh Univer-
sity
District and city of Sivasagar, Kamrup (both rural and
metropolitan), Hojai, Dhubri, Majuli, Nagaon, Nalbari,
Morigaon need to be mapped for built heritage.
Documentation of settlement patterns of historical
period and studying their urban/rural characteristics
besides their dynamic role is the key to comprehen-
sively understand the early medieval history of Assam
for which a small scale, independent, surface survey
project is being carried out across 9 modern villages
around the archaeological site of Sri Surya Pahar (SSP)
in Goalpara district, western Assam. This may work as
a model for Assam for mapping of other sites.
A Central Sector Scheme for listing of built heritage
including archaeological remains need to be developed
for supporting various state governments to undertake
listing and to understand the potential of their rich her-
itage. 224 |Challenges faced in Heritage Management in India and Policy Imperatives
State/UT Potential
Number for
Unprotected
Institutions active
in Mapping or
Conserving
Heritage
Recommendations
Bihar 20000 plusBihar Virasat Vikas
Samiti, Patna. Uni-
versity departments
with Ancient Indian
History, Culture &
Archaeology Depts
On an average, every third village in Bihar has a histor-
ical monument/ archaeological site or archaeological
remains that may be estimated as an upward of 15,500
ancient monuments and archaeological sites, largely
unprotected ones. Entire district of Nalanda, Bihar
Sharif, Gaya, Begusarai, Kishanganj, and Buxar need to
be mapped for built heritage sites. Bihar Virasat Samiti
should be involved in more field surveys
Chandigarh 20 plus (53
are protected)
under Master
Plan)
Chandigarh College
of Architecture,
Chitkara University,
Panjab University
It is a role model for protection of its modern heritage
integrated in its Master Plan. Surrounding archaeologi-
cal remains in Shivalik foothill need to be mapped and
protected
Chhattisgarh500 plus -Religious sites and Forts are maximum in number. De-
tailed mapping is needed.
Dadra & Nagar
Haveli & Dam-
an & Diu
15 plus -Coastal fortifications and churches are maximum. Forts
have potential reuse for heritage tourism purpose.
Delhi 1500 mappedINTACH, AKTC,
SPA and other insti-
tutions
Delhi has achieved stellar work in documenting its
built heritage sites beginning from INTACH listing
more than a decade ago to GIS mapping in 2021. More
Adaptive Reuse of listed structures and works role
model projects such as AKTC revival of Nizamuddin
Basti need to be replicated in other areas.
Goa 1000 plus
mapped
Goa Heritage Ac-
tion Group
Built Heritage of Goa town is mapped very well. Pro-
tection, Conservation and Reuse to be continued and
Cultural Landscapes need to be recognized.
Gujarat 10000 plusCEPT, INTACH
Chapters, IPSA-Ra-
jkot, Other Colleges
Old Darbargadhs, seats of princely states (more than
350 plus in no.) are falling apart. Immediate mapping,
protection and conservation of these structures is A Research Project for NITI Aayog | 225
State/UT Potential
Number for
Unprotected
Institutions active
in Mapping or
Conserving
Heritage
Recommendations
Gujaratessential. A number of cities rich in timber architec-
ture such as Siddhpur need to be protected. Gujarat
Heritage Tourism Policy 2020 needs to be practiced for
adaptive reuse of heritage structures in the state.
Haryana 5000 INTACH ChaptersMore than 1500 sites of Harappan period are large-
ly unprotected. Role of Excavation branches of ASI
should be fixed towards salvage archaeology of these.
Mounds are disappearing rapidly. Excavation without
acquiring ownership of land is essential. ASI should
maintain national register of state district wise D forms
to know exact number of existing unprotected sites.
Himachal
Pradesh
4000 plusHimachal Pradesh
University, Shimla
INTACH Chapter
District of Kangra, Mandi, Kullu, Chamba, Lahaul &
Spiti, and Kinnaur (last two districts are part of cold
desert cultural landscape in India) need to be mapped
for built heritage. Of a total of 20,690 census villages,
4200 villages might contain vestiges of archaeological
remains.
Himalayan region is a cradle of earliest hominids on
the earth. Chopper-chopping tool tradition, character-
istic of Potwar (Pakistan) to be mapped here.
Kashmir has unique architectural traditions repre-
sented by a large number of vernacular houses spread
throughout the region. These building traditions in-
clude the structural and decorative aspects that have
given them a regional character. The erstwhile state
has also passed a law in 2010 Act granting protection
to the built heritage. However, no progress has been
made in notifying these houses as per law.
Jammu & Kash-
mir
3000 plus
cultural land-
scapes
INTACH Chapter
Local Institutions 226 |Challenges faced in Heritage Management in India and Policy Imperatives
State/UT Potential
Number for
Unprotected
Institutions active
in Mapping or
Conserving
Heritage
Recommendations
Jharkhand 200 plus INTACH Chapter
ITRHD
The state is rich in rural and tribal heritage that needs
to be mapped and protected along with some policy
framework. Rural heritage tourism to be promoted in
such sites.
Karnataka 30000 plusINTACH, IHCN-F
NIAS for GIA
Mapping, Srishti
Institute and other
colleges of archi-
tecture
Districts such as Gulbarga, Bangalore, Bijapur, Mysore
need to be mapped in detail. Department of Culture
has commenced the identification of unprotected her-
itage but it will take few years to complete. Sites such
as Hirebankal are to be promoted and other prehistoric
sites in the state need to be mapped and protected.
Banagalore city needs to incorporate 600 plus heritage
structures in its Master Plan. Mangalore, Bhatkal, Hon-
navar have rich coastal heritage. Forts under historic
state of Mysore and others need to be listed and pro-
tected.
Kerala 5000 plusINTACH Chapter,
Colleges of Archi-
tecture
Has good role models for conservation projects but
more mapping and documentation of built heritage
sites including temples under endowment trust is need-
ed
Ladakh 500 plus INTACH, Institute
of Himalayan Stud-
ies
Heritage structures are well mapped by INTACH.
Should be inscribed on World Heritage List under cold
desert cultural landscapes
Lakshadweep 5-10 -Lighthouses have potential reuse in Heritage Tourism
trails linked with natural features.
Madhya
Pradesh
20000 plusSPA Bhopal,
MANIT, INTACH
Archaeology Dept has done good documentation of
unprotected structures that should continue for re-
maining districts. Endowments Department needs to
take up temples’ for listing. The State needs to A Research Project for NITI Aayog | 227
State/UT Potential
Number for
Unprotected
Institutions active
in Mapping or
Conserving
Heritage
Recommendations
Madhya
Pradesh
undertake conservation and adaptive reuse of listed
structures.
Maharashtra 20000 plusDeccan College,
INTACH
State Archaeology office survey records around 600 un-
protected sites and estimate it to reach 2000. Khandesh
and Eastern Vidarbha in Maharashtra remain largely
undocumented. A special drive is needed to collect data
from that area. Recognising and protecting heritage
under Municipal council and village areas needs to be
advocated. A heritage tag of नगरस्मारक, ग्रामामारक
where local sensitivity for heritage is developed. State
or central body can act as guiding agencies for conser-
vation and restoration but protection and day to day
maintenance should be local responsibility.
Manipur 500 plus cul-
tural land-
scapes
Local Universities
need capacity build-
ing
Largely unprotected cultural landscapes as indicated
by Meghalaya with listing of 160 plus Sacred Groves.
Mapping and protection is essential. Sites such as Root
Bridges being proposed for UNESCO Tentative List
to be on priority.
Meghalaya
Mizoram
Nagaland
Odisha 20000 plusJD Centre of Art,
INTACH Chapter
Endowment’s trust needs to take up temples’ listing of
more than 10000. Ekamrashetra to be placed on World
Heritage Listing.
Puducherry 50 INTACH ChapterWell documented. Good examples of reuse. Legisla-
tion needs to be in place for unprotected structures.
May follow up on World Heritage listing as part of the
MAUSAM project as serial nomination.
Punjab 3000 plusGNDU, Amritsar,
INTACH Chapter
Built heritage in several cities such as Patiala, Kapurtha-
la, Hoshiarpur and others need to be listed and pro-
tected under Master Plan. Unprotected archaeological 228 |Challenges faced in Heritage Management in India and Policy Imperatives
State/UT Potential
Number for
Unprotected
Institutions active
in Mapping or
Conserving
Heritage
Recommendations
Punjabsites to be protected while the listed sites need to be
conserved and opened for reuse.
Rajasthan 50000 plusJVF, INTACH,
IHNC-F, DRO-
NAH Foundation,
MMCF, Colleges of
Architecture
Major listing has been undertaken as part of Village
Survey by the Department of Culture. It has the largest
existing database amongst all states. Devasthan depart-
ment needs to complete its listing of temples with im-
ages and GIS mapping is essential too. Waqf proper-
ties also need to be listed. The state has good examples
of reuse and a robust Heritage Tourism Policy since
several decades.
Sikkim 1000 plusNamgyal Institute
of Tibetology
Listing, Mapping and protection by Ecclesiastical De-
partment is essential for its 900 plus monasteries.
Tamil Nadu 40000 plusMammalpuram
College of Tem-
ple Architecture,
IIT Madras, Dhan
Foundation, Reach,
INTACH
HRCE (endowments trust) urgently needs to finish
listing of its 38000 plus temples and frame a conserva-
tion policy for temples in sync with traditional guide-
lines from the Agamashastras.
Telangana 3000 plusKakatiya Trust,
INTACH Chapter,
Colleges of Archi-
tecture
136 archaeological sites and 180plus fort structures to
be protected and reused.
Tripura 400 plus -Recognition and Protection of cultural landscapes in
the region is important
Uttar Pradesh30000
plus
Local Colleges of
Architecture,
INTACH Chapters
Around 500 archeological sites and 580 forts/gateways
to be developed. Temples department to list and map
12000 plus structures. Waqf properties are several in
number and need to be listed. A Research Project for NITI Aayog | 229
State/UT Potential
Number for
Unprotected
Institutions active
in Mapping or
Conserving
Heritage
Recommendations
Uttarakhand 1500 plusSoban Singh Jee-
na University,
Almorah; and
Hemvati Nandan
Bahuguna Univer-
sity
The exact nature of the Palaeolithic assemblage of Ut-
tarakhand needs to be situated in pan Indian context.
As per Census 2011 of Uttarakhand, there are 16,793
villages, out of which 1,053 have no inhabitants and
another 405 have a population of less than 10..
The exploration in the state has revealed that every
10th to 12th village may reveal archaeological remains
which could be remains of forts, temples, naulas (local
water structures constructed for channelizing flowing
water), canals, settlement sites, and so on.
In order of preference, Districts of Champavat,
Chamoli, Almorah, Bageshwar, Dwarahat and Jagesh-
war are recommended for mapping.
West Bengal 5000 plusJadavpur University,
IIT Kharagpur
INTACH
The State has more numbers of Public Buildings and
Industrial Heritage. Terracotta temples are unique with
Bishnupur to be inscribed for World Heritage List.
Colonial and Industrial Heritage is dominant – to be
mapped, protected and reused. Cities and towns along
the Hooghly River need to be listed and protected. 230 |Challenges faced in Heritage Management in India and Policy Imperatives A Research Project for NITI Aayog | 231
Bibliography
Agamashastra Digital Library, Retrieved May 2020,
https://www.agamaacademy.org/digital-library-en.php
ASI. (n.d.). Alphabetical List of Monuments « Archae-
ological Survey of India. Retrieved Jan- 10, 2020, from
http://asi.nic.in/alphabetical-list-of-monuments/

ASI. (n.d.-b). Ticketed Monuments « Archaeological
Survey of India. Retrieved March 2020, from http://
asi.nic.in/ticketed-monuments/
ASI. (2014). NATIONAL POLICY FOR CONSER-
VATION. Retrieved from http://asi.nic.in/wp-con-
tent/uploads/2018/11/national-conservation-poli-
cy-final-April-2014.pdf

City Wise Projects under Smart Cities Mission: SMART
CITIES MISSION, Government of India. (2018, July
10). Retrieved April 3 2020, from http://smartcities.
gov.in/content/innerpa
Chirikure, S., Manyanga, M., Ndoro, W., & Pwiti, G.
(2010). Unfulfilled promises?
Conforti, M. E., Fernández-Lomana, J. C. D., Maria-
no, M., Endere, M. L., & Romero Alonso, A. J. (2015).
World Heritage and the local community: The case of
Atapuerca (Burgos, Spain). Conservation and Manage-
ment of Archaeological Sites, 17(4), 327–339. https://
doi.org/10.1080/13505033.2016.1175904.
Court, S., & Gamini, W. (2015). People-centred ap-
proaches to the conservation of culturalheritage: Living
heritage. ICCROM. (Accessed May 2020) https://www.
iccrom.org/sites/default/files/PCA_Annexe-2.pdf
Heritage management and community participation at
some of Africa’s cultural heritage sites. International
Journal of Heritage Studies, 16(1–2), 30–44.
https://doi. org/10.1080/13527250903441739.ge/
city-wise-projects-under-smart-cities-mission.php

Context: Built, Living and Natural, a referred Journal
published by DRONAH (Development and Research
Organisation for Nature, Arts and Heritage), Gurgaon
with 2 special thematic issues on Historic Indian Cit-
ies and World Heritage supported by UNESCO New
Delhi
Hoysala Temple Column, Karnataka;
Source - DRONAH 232 |Challenges faced in Heritage Management in India and Policy Imperatives
Gantait, Arnab and Priyakrushna Mohanty and G.
Anjaneya Swamy SAJTH, January 2018, Vol. 11, No. 1
© South Asian Journal of Tourism and Heritage Con-
servation and Management of Indian Built-Heritages:
Exploring the Issues and Challenges
Guha, Sudeshna, Artefacts of History: Archaeology,
Historiography and Indian Pasts. (2015) Sage India
Publishers

Herdis Hølleland, Joar Skrede & Sanne Bech
Holmgaard (2017) Cultural Heritage and Ecosystem
Services: A Literature Review, Conservation and Man-
agement of Archaeological Sites, 19:3, 210-237, DOI:
10.1080/13505033.2017.1342069
Hooja, Rima. 1999. Mandan’s ‘Devata-Murti-Prakar-
nam’, Prakrit Bharati Akademi, Jaipur, 1999
Hooja, Rima ‘Trail-blazers and Government Policies:
The Development of Indian Archaeology’, Shodhak
Vol.22, Pt.A, No.64, pp.3-13, 1993
HRIDAY National Project Management Unit. (n.d.-a).
Budget Outlay. Retrieved October 30, 2019, from
https://www.hridayindia.in/budget-outlay/

HRIDAY National Project Management Unit. (n.d.-b).
HRIDAY. Retrieved October 30, 2019, from https://
www.hridayindia.in/

HRIDAY National Project Management Unit. (n.d.-c).
Scheme Objectives. Retrieved October 30, 2019, from
https://www.hridayindia.in/scheme-objectives/

HRIDAY National Project Management Unit. (n.d.-d).
Scheme Statement. Retrieved October 30, 2019, from
https://www.hridayindia.in/scheme-statement/
Icomos India. (n.d.). Retrieved November 21, 2019,
from https://www.icomosindia.com/about.html
INTACH. (n.d.). INTACH. Retrieved November 21,
2019, from http://www.intach.org/about.php
Jain, Shikha and Rohit Jigyasu. “Urban Heritage
Management and Conservation in Jaipur, Reshap-
ing Urban Conservation: The Historic Urban Land-
s c a p e A p p r o a c h i n A c t i o n , S p r i n g e r P u b l i c a t i o n s
(2019)
Jain, Shikha with Caroline S. Cheong, Susan Macdon-
ald and Kecia L. Fong “Third sector organizations and
community engagement: Towards sustainable conser-
vation” panel paper in STO1: Integrating Heritage and
Sustainable Urban Development by Engaging Diverse
Communities for Heritage Management at the ICO-
MOS General Assembly, New Delhi (December 2017)

Jain, Shikha and Bhawna Dandona(Ed.) INTACH
Haryana Guide with support of NMMA, ASI. Aryan
Publications. New Delhi (2012)

Journal of Heritage Management, Published by Cen-
tre for Heritage Management in association with Sage
Publications
Kirshenblatt-Gimblett, Barbara. 2006. “World Heritage
and Cultural Economics.” In Museum Frictions,edit- A Research Project for NITI Aayog | 233
ed by Ivan Karp, Corinne A. Kratz, Lynn Szwaja and
Tomas Ybarra-Frausto, 161–202. Durham, NC: Duke
University Press
Krishna, N., Amirthalingam, M., & CPR Environmen-
tal Education Centre (Chennai, I. (2014). Sacred Groves
of India. Chennai, India: C.P.R. Environmental Educa-
tion Centre.
Krishnamurthy, Sukanya , Ana Pereira Rodersa and Pi-
eter van Wesemaela, “Community participation in cul-
tural heritage management: A systematic literature re-
view comparing Chinese and international practices Ji
Lia” in ELESEVIER, Cities 96 (2020) 102476 , www.
elsevier.com/locate/cities

Landorf, C. (2009). A framework for sustainable heritage
management: A study of UK industrial heritage sites.
International Journal of Heritage Studies, 15(6), 494–
510. https://doi.org/10.1080/13527250903210795.
Lucile, S. (n.d.). Introducing ICOMOS - Internation-
al Council on Monuments and Sites. Re https://www.
icomos.org/en/about-icomos/mission-and-vision/
mission-and-vision
Mackay, R., & Johnston, C. (2010). Heritage manage-
ment and community connections -On the Rocks.
Journal of Architectural Conservation, 16(1), 55–74.
https://doi.org/10.1080/13556207.2010.10785062.
Marshall, J. (1923). Conservation Manual. Calcutta:
Government of India.
Ministry of Culture. (2013). Audit Report. Retrieved
from https://cag.gov.in/sites/default/files/audit_re-
port_files/Union_Performance_Ministry_Cultures_
Monuments_Antiquities_18_2013_ chapter_8.pdf

Ministry of Culture. (2016). Protection and Conserva-
tion of Monuments and Antiquities, Public Accounts
Committee. Retrieved from http://164.100.47.193/
lsscommittee/Public%20Ac-counts/16_Public_Ac-
counts_39.pdf

Ministry of Housing and Urban Affairs. (n.d.-a). List
Of Projects: SMART CITIES MISSION, Government
of India. Retrieved October 30, 2019, from http://
smartcities.gov.in/content/innerp-
age/list-of-projects.php

Ministry of Housing and Urban Affairs. (n.d.-b). Man-
date: Ministry of Housing and Urban Affairs, Gov-
erment of India. Retrieved October 30, 2019, from
http://mohua.gov.in/cms/man- date.php

Ministry of Housing and Urban Affairs. (n.d.-c). Min-
istry of Housing and Urban Affairs, Government of
India. Retrieved October 30, 2019, from http://mohua.
gov.in/index.php#

Ministry of Housing and Urban Affairs, Government
of India. (n.d.). SMART CITIES MISSION,Gov-
ernment of India. Retrieved October 30, 2019, from
http://smartcities.gov.in/content/

Ministry of Housing and Urban Affairs, Government
of India. (2018a, August 14). List of Cities covered by
AMRUT: ATAL MISSION FOR REJUVENATION 234 |Challenges faced in Heritage Management in India and Policy Imperatives
AND URBAN TRANSFORMATION. Retrieved Oc -
tober 30, 2019, from http://amrut.gov.in/content/citi-
escovered_map.php

Ministry of Housing and Urban Affairs, Government
of India. (2018b, August 14). List of Cities covered by
AMRUT: ATAL MISSION FOR REJUVENATION
AND URBAN TRANSFORMATION. Re- trieved
October 30, 2019, from http://amrut.gov.in/content/
cities_list.php

Ministry of Housing and Urban Affairs, Government
of India. (2018c, August 14). The Mission: ATAL
MISSION FOR REJUVENATION AND URBAN
TRANSFORMATION. Retrieved October 30,2019,
from http://amrut.gov.in/content/innerpage/the-mis-
sion.php

Ministry of Tourism. (n.d.-a). Adopt A Heritage. Re-
trieved October 30, 2019, from https://www.adopta-
heritage.in/

Ministry of Tourism. (n.d.-b). Home | Ministry of
Tourism. Retrieved October 30, 2019, from http://
tourism.gov.in/

Ministry of Tourism. (n.d.-c). Swadesh Darshan. Re-
trieved October 31, 2019, from http://swadeshdar-
shan.gov.in/

Ministry of Tourism, GoI. (2014). Annual Report 2013-
2014. Retrieved from http://tourism.gov.in/sites/de-
fault/files/021320150345924.pdf
Ministry of Tourism, GoI. (2015). Annual Report 2014-
2015. Retrieved from http://tourism.gov.in/sites/de-
fault/files/annualreports/Report_0.pdf
Tourism, GoI. (2016). Annual Report 2015-2016. Re-
trieved from http://tourism.gov.in/sites/default/files/
Annual%20Rreport%202015-16.pdf

Ministry of Tourism, GoI. (2017). Annual Report 2016-
2017. Retrieved from http://tourism.gov.in/sites/
default/files/annualreports/MoT%20Annual%20Re-
port%202016-17_English.pdf
Ministry of Tourism, GoI. (2018). Annual Report 2017-
2018. Retrieved from http://tourism.gov.in/sites/de-
fault/files/annualreports/Annual%20Report2017-18.
pdf

Ministry of Tourism, GoI. (2019). Annual Report 2018-
2019. Retrieved from http://tourism.gov.in/sites/
default/files/annualreports/Ministry%20of%20Tour-
ism%20Annual%20Report%20En-glish%20for%20
Webpdf
Menon, AG Krishna. “Conservation in India - a search
for direction.” Architecture + Design (1989): 22-27,
New Delhi
Menon, AG Krishna. “The Case for an Indian Char-
ter” (Accessed May 2020) https://www.india-seminar.
com/2003/530/530%20a.g.%20krishna%20menon.
htm
Navrud, Ståle, and Richard C. Ready. 2002. Valuing
Cultural Heritage. Applying Environmental Valuation- A Research Project for NITI Aayog | 235
Techniques to Historic Buildings, Monuments and Ar-
tifacts. Cheltenham: Edward Elgar.
NIUA. (n.d.). Smart Cities Mission. , from https://
smartnet.niua.org/smart-cities-network
Press Information Bureau. (2018, December 17). 10
monuments adopted under the ‘Adopt A Heritage’
project. Retrieved October 30, 2019, from https://pib.
gov.in/newsite/PrintRelease. aspx?relid=186491
Poulios, I. (2014). Discussing strategy in heritage con-
servation: Living heritage approach as an example of
strategic innovation. Journal of Cultural Heritage Man-
agement and Sustainable Development, 4(1), 16–34.
https://doi.org/10.1108/JCHMSD-10-2012-0048
Rahman, Y., Norhisham, Q., Razali, F. R., & Zubir, S. S.
(2013). Public funded heritage rejuvenation mechanism
in Georgetown, Penang. The Sustainable City VIII (2
Volume Set): Urban Regeneration and Sustainability,
179, 141–152. https://doi.org/10.2495/SC130121.
Samiti, H. J. (2014, September 25). Misuse of tem-
ple funds and power. Retrieved November 10, 2019,
from https://www.hindujagruti.org/hindu-issues/
save-temples/templesact/mis-use-temple-funds-power

UNESCO. (n.d.). Sharing best practices in World Her-
itage management. Retrieved October 31, 2019, from
https://whc.unesco.org/en/recognition-of-best-prac-
tices/
WMF. (n.d.). WMF India. Retrieved November 21,
2019, from https://www.wmf.org/affiliate/india
Sjöholm, Jennie, “Built Cultural Heritage in an Urban
Planning Context: Literature Review” Luleå University
of Technology Department of Civil, Environmental
and Natural Resources Engineering. Division of Archi-
tecture and Water
Taylor, K. (2004). Cultural heritage management: A
possible role for charters and principles in Asia. Inter-
national Journal of Heritage Studies, 10(5), 417–433.
https://doi.org/10.1080/1352725042000299045.
Taylor, K. (2016). The Historic Urban Landscape par-
adigm and cities as cultural landscapes. Challenging or-
thodoxy in urban conservation. Landscape Research,
41(4),471–480. https://doi.org/10.1080/01426397.20
16.1156066
Tengberg, Anna, Susanne Fredholm, Ingegard Elias-
son, Igor Knez, Katarina Saltzman, and Ola Wetter-
berg. 2012. “Cultural Ecosystem Services Provided
by Landscapes: Assessment of Heritage Values and
Identity.” Ecosystem Services 2: 14–26. https://doi.
org/10.1016/j.ecoser.2012.07.006.
Throsby, David. 2013. “Assessment of Value in Heri-
tage Regulation.” In Handbook on the Economics of
Cultural Heritage, edited by Ilde Rizzo and Anna Mi-
gnosa, 456–469. Cheltenham: Edward Elgar.UNESCO
(2011).
Recommendation on the Historic Urban Landscape,
including a glossary of definitions. (Accessed May
2020) http://portal.unesco.org/en/ev.phpURL_
ID=48857&URL_DO=DO_TOPIC&URL_SEC - 236 |Challenges faced in Heritage Management in India and Policy Imperatives
TION=201.html.
UNESCO (2017). Operational guidelines for the im-
plementation of the world heritage convention. Paris:
UNESCO World Heritage Centre
Waterton, Emma, and Steve Watson. 2015. “Heritage as
a Focus of Research past, Present and New Directions.”
In The Palgrave Handbook of Contemporary Heritage
Research, edited by Emma Waterton,and Steve Watson,
1–17. New York: Palgrave Macmillan
Wijesuriya, G., Thompson, J., & Court, S. (2017). Peo-
ple-centred approaches: Engaging communities and
developing capacities for managing heritage. In G.
Chitty (Ed.). Heritage, conservation and communities:
Engagement, participation and capacity building (pp.
54–69). Abingdon: Routledge.
Winter, T. (2014). Beyond Eurocentrism? Heritage con-
servation and the politics of difference. International
Journal of Heritage Studies, 20(2), 123–137. https://
doi.org/10. 1080/13527258.2012.736403.
Woodley, C., Marshall, S., Taylor, S., & Fagan, S. (2013).
Technologies, indigenous cultural heritage and com-
munity capacity building. Paper Presented at 2013
IEEE Global Humanitarian Technology Conference
(GHTC) (pp. 406–410). . https://doi.org/10.1109/
GHTC.2013.6713720.
Sources for Heritage Inventory
Books
Fels, P. T. (2011). Mosques of Cochin. Ahmedabad,
Gujarat: Mapin Publishing.
Goa Heritage Action Group and Corporation of the
City of Panaji. (2005). Walking in and around Panaji,
Goa. Panaji, India: Goa Heritage Action Group and
Corporation of the City of Panaji.
Gupta, R. R. (2013). The Courtyard Wada of Maha-
rashtra. New Delhi, India: NIASA.
Iyer, M. (2019). Discovering Bengaluru. Bengaluru,
Karnataka: INTACH Bengaluru Chapter.
Kundoo, A., & Joshi, Y. (2018). AVPNY-Auroville &
Pondicherry: Architectural Travel Guide of Auroville
& Pondicherry (Travel Guide to Indian Architecture
Series) (1st ed.). Barcelona, Spain: Edicions Altrim S.L.
Mande, P. M., Yadav, A. A., & Ghadge, C. G. (2019).
Forts & Palaces in India. Pune, Maharashtra: Aniket
Enterprises.
Mitra, S., Eicher Goodearth Limited, Patiala Heritage
Society, & Indian National Trust for Art and Cultur-
al Heritage. (2004). Walking with the Gurus. Executive
Publisher, New Delhi: Eicher Goodearth Limited.
Mascarenhas, P. V. (2017). Mapped Heritage of Panaji,
Goa. Panaji, India: Goa Heritage Action Group. A Research Project for NITI Aayog | 237
Surebanker, S. (2018). Architectural Splendours of Bel-
gavi (2018th ed.). Belgavi, Karnataka: INTACH, Belga-
vi Chapter.
Suresh, S. (2016). Nilgiris: A Guide to the Built Heritage
of Ooty-Coonoor (First ed.). Chennai, Tamil Nadu: IN-
TACH Tamil Nadu State Chapter & Nilgiris Chapter.
Tandan, B. (2001). The architecture of Lucknow and its
dependencies, 1722-1856: A descriptive inventory and
an analysis of nawabi types. New Delhi, India: Vikas
Publishing House Pvt Ltd.
Listings from INTACH
1. Baolis of Bundi
2. Historical sites of Purig
3. Kashmir and Ladakh
4. Historical sites of Changthang
5. Leh,Ladakh
6. Iconic Heritage of Banaras
7. Delhi Built Heritage: A listing
8. Volume I and II
9. Heritage of Kanyakumari District
10. Architectural Heritage of Ladakh
11. Bangalore as it was
12. Bihar Ke Sanskritik Dharohar- Volume 1,2,3,4
13. Agra: Architectural Heritage, Lucy Peck
14. Cuduppa-Andhra Pradesh Chapter
15. Listing of Heritage Buildings: Rajpipla Gujarat
16. Walking in and around Panaji, Goa (by GHAG
Original)
17. Cultural Resource Mapping of Srinagar City
vol.I
18. Cultural Resource Mapping of Srinagar City
vol.II
19. Heritage Wonders of Bhadrak, Part-I (Orissa)
20. Dharwad by Rekha Shettar
21. The Forgotten Monuments of Orissa (vol 3)
22. Built Heritages of Mizoram
23. Heritage Nanded: Cultural, Art and Architec-
ture
24. Lesser-known Monuments of Bhubaneshwar
25. Protected Monuments of Rajasthan
26. Heritage Sites of Jajpur District
27. INTACH BHADRAK CHAPTER
28. Madras- The Architectural Heritage: An IN-
TACH Guide, INTACH TAMIL NADU CHATPER
29. Cultural Resource Mapping of Tripura Part I
30. Cultural Resource Mapping of Tripura Part II
31. LUCKNOW The City of Heritage & Culture
32. Calcutta Built Heritage Today
33. Listing of Built Heritage of Lalitpur Vol I
34. Listing of Built Heritage of Lalitpur Vol II
35. Listing of Jamnagar, Gujarat
36. Inventory of Jamnagar, Gujarat
37. Listing of Trivandrum district, Kerala
38. Project of Listing and Documentation of His-
toric sites- AP vol1
39. Project of Listing and Documentation of His-
toric sites- AP vol2
40. Peddapuram District, East Godavari, AP
41. Amalapuram Division, east Godavari, AP
42. Documentation of Heritage sites, Srikakulam
district Vol I
43. Documentation of Heritage sites, Srikakulam
district Vol II
44. Inventory of Heritage sites Raipur dist., Chhat- 238 |Challenges faced in Heritage Management in India and Policy Imperatives
tisgarh Vol I
45. Inventory of Heritage sites Raipur dist., Chhat-
tisgarh Vol II
Other Contributors
1. Ms. Aishwarya Tipnis – Chandernagore Inven-
tory
2. Ms. Ellora Ghosh – Images for Assam
3. Ms. Ridhima Bajaj – Listing for Faizabad
4. Mr. Rishabh Sharma – Listing for Khajuraho
Heritage Zone
5. Ms. Anjali Bharthari – Listing for Sagar, Choti
Haldwani
6. Ms. Poonam Verma Mascarenhas – Goa List-
ing
7. Ms. Riddhi Shah – Saurashtra Listing
8. Mr. Shabi-ul-hamd – Sambhal Listing
9. Mr. Rachan Puneet Singh – Amritsar Katra
Listing
10. Mr. Munish Pandit, Tulika and Waseem Farooq
– Jammu, Pushkar and Jaisalmer Listing
11. Mr. B.K. Chaudhary, KPJRI Patna - Bihar Ar-
chaeological Sites
12. DRONAH Archives - Nashik, Sambhar,
Ajmer, Jaipur, Udaipur A Research Project for NITI Aayog | 239
List of Acronyms
AMASR Ancient Monuments and Archae-
ological Sites and Remains Act
ASI Archaeological Survey of India
CPWD Central Public Works Depart-
ment
CWC Central Waqf Council
GSI Geological Survey of India
HRIDAY Heritage City Development and
Augmentation Yojana
INTACH Indian National Trust for Art
and Cultural Heritage
ICOMOS International Council on Monu-
ments and Sites
IGNCA Indira Gandhi National Center
for the Arts
IHCNF Indian Heritage Citiies Network
Foundation
LIDAR Light Detection and Ranging
MoC Ministry of Culture
MoD Ministry of Defence
MoEFCC Ministry of Environment, Forest
and Climate Change
MoHUA Ministry of Housing and Urban
Affairs
MoS Ministry of Shipping
MoT Ministry of Tourism
MoUD Ministry of Urban Development
MoYAS Ministry of Youth Affairs and
Sports
NCM National Commission of Minori-
ties
NEP National Education Policy
NIO National Institute of Oceanog-
raphy
NMMA National Mission on Monuments
and Antiquities
TCPO Town and Country Planning
Organisation
UNESCO United Nations Educational, Sci-
entific and Cultural Organization 240 |Challenges faced in Heritage Management in India and Policy Imperatives A Research Project for NITI Aayog | 241
Annexure 1 - Listing and Documentation
by INTACH
The built heritage of our country is a priceless non-renewable resource. The Archae-
ological Survey of India protects about 3706 monuments in entire country and the
archaeological departments of the States protect another 5000 monuments approxi-
mately. Majority of our built heritage remains largely unidentified, neglected, threatened
by urban pressures and even systematically eliminated. Since the policy framework for
protection and integrated conservation is a developing area in our country, it is essen-
tial to take a stock of the built heritage. Moreover, with the amendment in 2010 to the
Ancient Monuments and Archaeological Sites and Remains Act (AMASRA), wherein
according to the new rule, heritage byelaws need to be prepared for the 100 and fur-
ther 200 meter area around every protected monument. In many cases, area around the
protected monuments and sites comprise old historic areas and numerous unprotected
historic buildings. While the heritage byelaws is a very positive initiative, it is imperative
that identification of heritage properties is done on priority.
The Indian National Trust for Art and Cultural Heritage (INTACH) was established
with the objective of conserving the incredible diversity of historical sites that fall out-
side the purview of the Archaeological Survey of India. From its inception in 1984
INTACH has recognized the issues relating conservation of unprotected heritage build-
ings throughout our country and has taken up the task of listing and documentation
as one of its main activities. Being a membership organization INTACH has chapters
in all states and districts which promotes awareness and understanding of the need to
preserve India’s natural, cultural and built heritage.
Next Page: Red Fort, Agra; Source -
DRONAH
Raigad Fort, Maharashtra; Source -
DRONAH 242 |Challenges faced in Heritage Management in India and Policy Imperatives
Listings are generally done by INTACH chapters with help
of researchers, architectural historians, scholars. Within one
year of its establishment, INTACH had established about 31
chapters in the country and as one of the primary initiatives,
the chapters carried out listings of Heritage sites in their
areas; the early listings being Shekhawati, Jind, Karnal, Ku-
rukhetra in Haryana, Kutch in Gujarat, Andaman, Bangalore,
Hyderabad among others. Though, the compilation of the
listing in those days in the absence of computers was a very
tedious task, but most of these documentations were done
with neat cursive handwriting, detailed sketches and black &
white photographs. These documents are carefully archived
in our Knowledge centre and have also been digitised. The
old documents are still of high value for reference and re-
cord. INTACH currently has 210 chapters who are encour-
aged to survey new areas and also upgrade the old listings.
INTACH has listed about 70,000 properties in around 450




PROFORMA FOR LISTING OF BUILT HERITAGE


Serial No. Map Reference: Photo Reference:
1. Name
Present Name:
Past Name:

2. Location
Latitude:
Longitude:
Address:
Approach:

3. Property Type
Precinct/Building/Structure/Landscape/Site
Subtype:

4. Date of Construction
Precise Date:
Approximate Date:
Source of information:

5. Ownership
Single/Multiple
Public/Private
Any other (specify)
Name of owner:
Address:

6. Property Use
Abandoned/In use:
Present use:
Past use:

7. Significance
Historic Significance:

Culture Significance:

Social Significance:

Associational Significance:

Photograph -2
Photograph -1





Local legends:
8. Architectural Description
Architectural Style:
Site & Surrounding:
Plan:
Façade:
Decorative Feature:
Building material and:
Construction techniques

Two to three photographs at least to show the architectural style and condition.

9. Associated Intangible values

10. Condition Description
Sign of Distress:
Structural Problem:
Additions & alterations
Repairs and Maintenance:
Threats to the property:

11. State of Conservation
Good/Fair/Showing Signs of Deterioration/
Advanced State of Decay/Danger of Disappearance

12. Other Remarks


13. Grade
Archaeological: A/B/C
Architectural: A/B/C
Historical: A/B/C
Associational: A/B/C
Social/Cultural: A/B/C
Final Grading: I/IIA/IIB/III

14. References
Reference notes
Maps/plan/Drawings

Listers
Name
Address

Date of Listing
Proforma for listing of Built Heritage; Source - INTACH A Research Project for NITI Aayog | 243
towns till date and the list is being supplemented as Listing
is an ongoing exercise. INTACH has shared information of
8000 properties with DRONAH for the Niti Ayog document
(refer to annexure). These databases are kept in the INTACH
knowledge Centre (Library) in form of bound reports, which
are frequently referred by students, scholars, architects, re-
searchers, academicians and general public. Some listings
such as Delhi, Chennai, Kolkotta are published by INTACH
in collaboration with the local authorities. Some listings have
been compiled to form very interesting and useful tourist
guide books, such as the ones for Agra, Delhi, Chennai etc.
INTACH Listings has also helped the notification of heritage
properties by the local authorities such as in Delhi, Mumbai,
Hyderabad, Ahmedabad etc. It is important to note that list-
ing is a process. More buildings can be added to the list any
time.
In 2015, a dedicated listing cell and committee (Technical
Advisory Committee for Listing- TACL) was set up to co-
ordinate and advice listing activities. Special training is also
given to the team on site before start of the work as well
as during the field survey. There is also an opportunity to
bring in more advanced methods such as the GIS mapping
and quick listings in case of emergency situation or “Spot
listing”. INTACH has also developed listing apps for the ease
of field survey. The process has trained a large number of ar-
chitects, professionals and built the capacity of local chapters
and members. INTACH’s listing inventory format is elabo-
rate with 15 or more fields such as Name of the property,
period of construction, typology, Significance, Architectural
description to condition description etc. Guidelines are also
made to explain the fields, criteria for listing and how to do
the primary survey. Listing work basically comprises three
stages: (i) Background research, (ii) Field work and (iii)
Data Compilation, Inventories and publication. Before com-
mencing the actual fieldwork, the listing team gather basic
information from various sources including gazettes, travel
books and several other specialized books on the history of
the area to be listed. One can refer to the libraries and ar-
chives of universities and other institutions of the central
government, the state government and of private individuals
or trusts. Museums established by the central government
or state governments or even private museums can provide
interesting information. In a given area, local experts, profes-
sionals and scholars could also provide the required guidance
and help. This ensures that no important structure or repre-
sentative style of building is left out. Background research
essentially helps in identifying historic areas, historic devel-
opments in the area, significance of the events that may have
taken place at different times, important persons who may
have shaped historical developments, cultural developments,
and similar features that may be unique to the area. In some
well documented areas, distinctive physical characteristics of
design, construction, materials, and forms of buildings can
also be identified.
Before launching into field work, the listing team should col-
lect a reliable map of the area and its various constituents.
Survey of India maps and those available with the state de-
partment on town and country planning should prove useful.
However, at the field level, ward maps available with the mu-
nicipal/ cantonment/panchayat authorities may be of great-
er help. In some cities, transport network maps (such as the
maps by Eicher in Delhi) may be equally useful. Google maps
can also be used as base maps to locate the buildings, either
by dropping the pin or with help of geo coordinates. Field
work requires lot of leg-work to scan the heritage properties
and to record information for each property in the prescribed
format. This comprises physically inspecting the property as
well as meeting local people such as owners of the property,
talking to other residents, to local ward or panchayat mem-
bers, and knowledgeable residents and representatives of in-
stitutions. By physically inspecting the property the team can
gather facts such as physical characteristics of the property, 244 |Challenges faced in Heritage Management in India and Policy Imperatives
the date of construction, style of construction, design char-
acteristics, etc., that are relevant for recording in the format
prescribed for listing. By conducting a dialogue with the res-
idents, one can determine the changes to the property over
time, ownership details, historic function and activities, asso-
ciation with events and persons, and the role of the property
in local, regional or national history. Photography is an im-
portant component of the listing. A photograph freezes the
building and its setting in the time when it is taken. In this
context, old photographs, if available, can constitute a very
important record in the listing. A comparison would show
the changes that have occurred over time to the building and,
in particular, to its embellishments. During the filed survey,
it is very important to engage and consult the public, house
owners who should be made aware of the significance of
their properties and importance of the listing as a tool for
future record. The information gathered on site is then ana-
lysed and published for wider circulation. Publication of the
listing of the area does help in raising the level of awareness
and public consciousness about what constitutes their heri-
tage. However, the cause of preservation and conservation
of heritage can be served only by providing statutory backing
to the listing. Only the statutory backing makes it an effective
tool for conservation. A Research Project for NITI Aayog | 245
Annexure 2 - State wise and District wise
Inventory for Built Heritage
About 500 organisations (government, private) and individuals were approached across India
in a span of one year to collate this database. Only images verified on site through these
sources were included to arrive at almost 60,000 images for a total listing of 100,000 plus
structures across India. All data received from Government organisations is verified by the
respective departments or is collated from their official websites, verified onsite by profes-
sionals and institutions involved and also sourced from DRONAH Archives for various cities
and states besides fresh onsite verification in certain areas. This is a dynamic process and a
number of organisations who could not provide this information due to Covid lockdowns
have promised to supplement this database in the future. This database gives the basic infor-
mation of the heritage site/ structure and does not have more details like state of conserva-
tion which is done in heritage listing.
1. North Zone - Chandigarh, Haryana, Himachal Pradesh, Jammu & Kashmir, Ladakh,
Punjab, Uttarakhand (04 Volumes)
2. Central Zone - Chhattisgarh, Madhya Pradesh, New Delhi, Uttar Pradesh (05 Volumes)
3. West Zone - Dadra and Nagar Haveli and Daman and Diu, Goa, Gujarat, Maharashtra,
Rajasthan (20 Volumes)
4. East Zone - Bihar, Jharkhand, Odisha, West Bengal (03 Volumes)
5. North East Zone - Arunachal Pradesh, Assam, Manipur, Meghalaya, Mizoram, Nagaland,
Sikkim, Tripura (01 Volume)
6. South Zone - Andaman & Nicobar Islands, Andhra Pradesh, Karnataka, Kerala, Pondi-
cherry, Telangana, Tamil Nadu (10 Volumes)
7. Central Ministries/ Depts - MoR, MoD, MoS, MoHUA, CPWD, GSI, NIO (01 Volume) 246 |Challenges faced in Heritage Management in India and Policy Imperatives A Research Project for NITI Aayog | 247 248 |Challenges faced in Heritage Management in India and Policy Imperatives
A-258 South City 1, Gurgaon 122001