Monument adoption plan in Maha lies in tatters as no takers line up

With just one central and two state heritage sites adopted, the 'Adopt a Heritage Scheme' has garnered a low response in Maharashtra.

- Gayatri Vajpeyee

PUNE: The official from the state Archeology department highlighted the need for more efforts towards awareness drive and rethinking of revenue models to gain a better response for the scheme from various sectors of society.

The Archaeological Survey of India (ASI) has 3696 monuments under protection, which are spread throughout the country. These monuments not only exhibit the rich cultural heritage of India but also play a significant role in fostering economic growth. To sustain the rich cultural legacy, the heritage sites require time-to-time enhancement of the amenities.

Considering this, the "Adopt A Heritage" programme was first launched by the Ministry of Tourism in September 2017. A revamped version titled "Adopt A Heritage 2.0" was launched by the Ministry of Culture in September 2023. The program seeks to provide a framework for collaboration with private and public sector companies/NGOs/trusts/societies, etc. to develop/provide amenities in Protected Monuments through CSR funds to enhance visitors' experience and make adopted monument visitor-friendly.