Why in the News?
The Centre has recently proposed to open conservation of protected monuments to private participation, ending the Archaeological Survey of India’s (ASI) exclusive control over this domain.
About Archaeological Survey of India (ASI):
- Establishment: Formed in 1861 under the Ministry of Culture, ASI is responsible for archaeological research, exploration, and protection of India’s cultural heritage.
- Legal Authority: Enforces the Ancient Monuments and Archaeological Sites and Remains Act, 1958 and the Antiquities and Art Treasures Act, 1972.
- Scope of Work: Manages about 3,700 centrally protected monuments and archaeological sites of national importance.
- Organisational Structure: Operates through 37 regional Circles and specialist wings such as Science Branch (material analysis), Horticulture Branch (site maintenance), Temple Survey Projects (documentation), and Underwater Archaeology Wing (submerged heritage).
- Institutional Challenges: Faces staff shortages, budget limits, and procedural delays, constraining nationwide conservation capacity.
What is the new Public–Private Partnership (PPP) Model for Conservation?
- Purpose: Supplements ASI’s work by allowing private participation in conservation of heritage monuments.
- Participants: Corporates, PSUs, and philanthropic bodies may fund, execute, and monitor restoration projects under ASI supervision.
- Funding Mechanism: Routed through the National Culture Fund (NCF); donations qualify as CSR expenditure with 100% tax exemption.
- Implementation Framework:
- Empanelment of conservation architects via RFP by the Ministry of Culture.
- Donors select architects, who jointly engage restoration agencies experienced in structures over 100 years old.
- Each project must have a Detailed Project Report (DPR) approved by ASI and comply with the National Policy for Conservation, 2014.
- Priority Monuments: 250 sites identified for initial adoption based on region or thematic interest.
- Eligibility: Proven heritage conservation experience, financial competence, and technical compliance with ASI standards.
Difference from ‘Adopt a Heritage’ Scheme:
- Earlier Model (2017, revised 2023): Focused on tourism amenities cafés, ticketing, signage through “Monument Mitras”; excluded structural restoration.
- Current PPP Model: Extends to scientific conservation and architectural restoration under direct ASI oversight.
- Regulatory Control: ASI retains authority over authenticity, ethics, and policy compliance; funding channelled via NCF with technical audit.
- Policy Evolution: Marks a shift from tourism partnership to heritage stewardship, blending private resources with public accountability for monument preservation.
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