Lucknow, June 24: The Uttar Pradesh government has taken a significant step to promote public participation in preserving the state’s historical and cultural heritage through its ‘Adopt a Heritage Policy.’ So far, five ‘Monument Friends’ have been selected for protected monuments and archaeological sites, with plans to invite proposals from interested organizations for 26 additional historical sites in the next phase.
Tourism and Culture Minister Jaiveer Singh stated that this initiative will not only accelerate the preservation and enhancement of monuments but also improve tourist facilities and raise public awareness about heritage. The selected ‘Monument Friends’ include sites such as Kusumvan Sarovar, Ras Khan’s Samadhi, and Potarakund in Mathura, as well as the Laxmi Temple in Jhansi and the Hulaskheda archaeological site in Lucknow. These organizations will work towards developing basic infrastructure, maintenance, and enhancing the tourist experience at these locations.
Singh emphasized that the state government aims to extend the responsibility of cultural heritage preservation beyond just governmental duties, aspiring to transform it into a public movement. To achieve this, corporate institutions, educational organizations, NGOs, and social groups are being engaged in the campaign to ensure active community participation in the conservation of historical heritage.
He also mentioned that more ‘Monument Friends’ will be appointed for other protected monuments and archaeological sites in the state. An ‘Expression of Interest’ (EOI) will be announced soon for this purpose. Singh highlighted that ancient monuments and archaeological heritage are living legacies of our cultural identity and glorious history. Raising awareness about their preservation is a pressing need of the time.
Through the ‘Adopt a Heritage Policy,’ the government is advancing both tourism development and cultural preservation. This initiative will expand facilities at historical sites, boost tourism, and provide the younger generation with opportunities to connect with the state’s rich heritage and history. Additionally, it aims to foster a sense of responsibility and sensitivity among the public towards the conservation of their cultural heritage.
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