India boasts an extensively rich and diverse cultural heritage that betters the understanding of its fascinating history. The Ancient Monuments and Archaeological Sites and Remains Act (AMSAR ACT 1958) was established to protect these historical sites, but the existing challenges primarily relate to the operation and maintenance of the infrastructural assets. To overcome this, the Archaeological Survey of India (ASI) launched the “Adopt a Heritage 2.0” program. Alongside this launch, they introduced the ‘Indian Heritage’ mobile application and an e-permission portal.
Understanding the Indian Heritage App and the e-Permission Portal
The Indian Heritage Application will act as a digital showcase for India’s heritage monuments. On the app, users will find state-wise details of monuments, photographs, a record of public amenities available, geo-tagged locations, and a convenient feedback mechanism.
The e-Permission Portal, on the other hand, is designed to facilitate the process of obtaining permissions for photography, filming, and developmental projects on monuments. Through its efficient system, it aims to solve operational and logistical bottlenecks.
A Closer Look at the Adopt a Heritage 2.0 Programme
‘Adopt a Heritage 2.0’ is an enhanced version of a prior scheme commenced in 2017. It clearly outlines the amenities needed for different monuments according to the guidelines set by the AMASR ACT 1958. Stakeholders interested in adopting a monument or specific amenities can easily apply through a dedicated web portal. This initiative encourages corporate stakeholders to contribute towards the preservation of these monuments for future generations.
Origins and Objectives of the Adopt a Heritage Scheme
The Adopt a Heritage Scheme was first launched by the President of India in 2017, on World Tourism Day. This project brought together the Ministry of Tourism, the Ministry of Culture, the ASI, and respective State/UT governments. The project aimed to develop synergy among all partners to effectively promote ‘responsible tourism’. The scheme sought out public sector companies, private sector companies, and corporate citizens/individuals to take up the responsibility for making our heritage and tourism more sustainable through the provision and maintenance of high-standard tourist infrastructure and sites.
The Role of Monument Mitras
Through a unique concept of ‘Vision Bidding’, agencies/companies are given the opportunity to become ‘Monument Mitras’. The agency presenting the best vision for the heritage site is awarded an opportunity to align the site with their Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) activities.
The Need for Adopt a Heritage Schemes
With heritage sites facing operational and maintenance challenges, there’s a need for robust mechanisms that provide essential amenities immediately and advanced services in the long term. The Adopt a Heritage scheme addresses this need by connecting stakeholders who can contribute to the preservation of these sites.
Previous Attempts for Corporate Involvement in Heritage Management
In 1996, the Government of India launched the National Culture Fund and has since completed 34 projects through public-private partnerships. The ‘Campaign Clean India’ is another initiative entailing the adoption of monuments/destinations by entities for upkeep. The India Tourism Development Corporation (ITDC) adopted Qutab Minar as a pilot project in 2012, while the Oil and Natural Gas Corporation (ONGC) adopted six monuments as part of its CSR.
Gleaning from international experiences
Italy, which boasts the world’s largest number of UNESCO Heritage Sites, provides an excellent example of successful collaboration between the government and corporations for heritage maintenance since 2014. This approach could offer valuable insights for India’s efforts in preserving its own heritage sites.