In its dedication to preserving and enriching India\’s abundant cultural heritage and invaluable heritage, the Archaeological Survey of India (ASI) is preparing to introduce the \”Adopt a Heritage 2.0\” program on September 4, 2023, at the Samvet Auditorium, IGNCA, New Delhi.
Revitalizing Our Heritage: \”Adopt a Heritage 2.0\” Initiative
The \”Adopt a Heritage 2.0\” initiative signifies an evolved and dynamic approach, building upon the groundwork laid by its predecessor launched in 2017. This program is meticulously crafted to facilitate active participation of corporate entities in enhancing facilities at heritage sites by harnessing their Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) funds.
The primary aim is to elevate the overall visitor experience while concurrently preserving and showcasing India\’s cultural treasures. Under this framework, corporate entities are extended an invitation to adopt specific monuments or amenities at heritage sites via a dedicated web portal, accessible at www.indianheritage.gov.in. The portal offers comprehensive details about the available monuments for adoption, including gap analysis and financial estimates for necessary enhancements.
Selection Process and Augmentation of Facilities
The selection process for corporate stakeholders will encompass thorough due diligence, consultations with diverse stakeholders, and a comprehensive evaluation of the economic and developmental prospects linked to each heritage site.
The chosen stakeholders will assume the responsibility of developing, maintaining, and furnishing facilities across various categories such as hygiene, accessibility, safety, and knowledge dissemination. Their active involvement will not only contribute to the preservation of these heritage sites but also position them as responsible and heritage-conscious entities. Initially, the appointment term will span five years, with the potential for an additional five-year extension.
Unlocking India\’s Heritage through Technology
Concurrently with the inauguration of the \”Adopt a Heritage 2.0\” program, a user-friendly mobile application named \’Indian Heritage\’ will be launched on the same day. This innovative app will serve as a digital platform to showcase India\’s rich heritage monuments. It will provide comprehensive information about monuments organized by state, accompanied by photographs, lists of available public amenities, geo-tagged locations, and a feedback mechanism for citizens. The app\’s rollout will occur in phases, commencing with ticketed monuments in Phase I, followed by the remaining monuments.
Moreover, to streamline and expedite various processes associated with heritage sites, an e-permission portal accessible at www.asipermissionportal.gov.in will be introduced. This portal will facilitate the acquisition of permissions for activities such as photography, filming, and developmental projects at heritage sites, addressing operational and logistical challenges inherent to these endeavors.