Team TrickyScribe: India, a land of rich heritage, is home to some of the world’s most iconic cultural and archaeological treasures. From the intricately carved temples of Khajuraho and the historic ruins of Hampi to the revered Somnath temple, the nation boasts a vast array of monuments that reflect its diverse traditions, history, and architectural brilliance. Spanning from the northern Himalayas to the southern tip of Kanyakumari, these historical sites stand as a testament to India’s glorious past.
However, climate change and extreme weather patterns—including rising sea levels, heatwaves, forest fires, torrential rains, and strong winds—pose significant threats to these invaluable landmarks. The accelerating deterioration of both movable and immovable heritage sites endangers India’s cultural identity. Without immediate protective measures, the future of these historical treasures remains at risk.
Archaeological Survey of India (ASI): Guardians of National Heritage
Established in 1861, the Archaeological Survey of India (ASI) is responsible for safeguarding and maintaining 3,698 monuments and archaeological sites of national importance. These sites are protected under the Ancient Monuments Preservation Act of 1904 and the Ancient Monuments and Archaeological Sites and Remains Act of 1958.
ASI oversees a diverse range of heritage sites, including prehistoric rock shelters, Neolithic settlements, megalithic burials, rock-cut caves, stupas, temples, churches, mosques, tombs, forts, and palaces. Each year, ASI drafts a conservation program aimed at minimizing intervention while preserving the authenticity of these sites.
Key Conservation Strategies and Challenges
Preserving historical monuments involves addressing challenges related to construction materials, environmental factors, structural stability, pollution, encroachments, and natural disasters. To combat these threats, ASI operates 37 Circle offices and 1 Mini Circle office, mainly located in state capitals, coordinating conservation efforts nationwide. The goal is to maintain these sites in their original form for future generations.
Increased Government Funding for Monument Preservation
Over the years, the Indian government has significantly increased funding for monument conservation. The budget allocation for ASI saw a 70% rise, from ₹260.90 crores in 2020-21 to ₹443.53 crores in 2023-24, ensuring improved preservation efforts.
Climate-Resilient Measures to Protect Heritage Sites
To mitigate the impact of climate change, the ASI has adopted climate-resilient solutions, including scientific treatments and advanced preservation techniques.
Technological Interventions for Monument Safety
Automated Weather Stations (AWS): ASI, in collaboration with the Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO), has installed AWS at historical monuments to track wind speed, rainfall, temperature, and atmospheric pressure, helping detect climate-related damage.
Air Pollution Monitoring: Dedicated Air Pollution Laboratories have been established at high-risk sites such as the Taj Mahal in Agra and Bibi Ka Maqbara in Aurangabad to monitor air quality and pollutant levels.
Collaborative Efforts for Disaster Management
Inter-Agency Coordination: ASI regularly collaborates with other government bodies to formulate strategies for protecting heritage sites from environmental risks.
International Knowledge Exchange: ASI officials participate in global workshops, including the “Disaster Management of Cultural Heritage Sites” workshop by the National Disaster Management Authority (NDMA) and UNESCO.
Disaster Management Guidelines: The NDMA, in collaboration with ASI, has developed National Disaster Management Guidelines for heritage sites, covering risk assessment, disaster preparedness, and recovery plans.
Strengthening Legal and Security Frameworks for Monument Protection
Strict Legal Frameworks: The Ancient Monuments and Archaeological Sites and Remains Act, 1958 provides legal backing to protect cultural heritage from encroachments and misuse.
Encroachment Control: ASI has the authority to issue eviction notices under the Public Premises (Eviction of Unauthorised Occupants) Act, 1971, to prevent unauthorized occupation of heritage sites.
Inter-Governmental Cooperation: ASI collaborates with State Governments and police authorities to address encroachment issues and maintain the safety of monuments.
Security Enhancements for Monument Protection
Surveillance and Security Personnel: ASI deploys private security staff and CISF personnel at select high-risk monuments.
National Conservation Policy, 2014: ASI follows this policy to ensure systematic conservation and restoration efforts.
Penalties for Violations: Section 30 of the Ancient Monuments and Archaeological Sites and Remains Act, 1958, enforces strict penalties for vandalism, misuse, and unauthorized alterations to protected monuments.
A Collective Responsibility to Preserve India’s Narrative
The preservation of India’s cultural heritage is an ongoing challenge that requires a proactive, multi-faceted approach. With climate threats, legal issues, and security concerns at the forefront, the Archaeological Survey of India (ASI), in collaboration with various agencies, continues to monitor, protect, and conserve these historical sites. Through technological advancements, increased funding, and strict legal frameworks, India is making significant strides in safeguarding its monumental legacy for future generations to cherish and appreciate.
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