The 38^th meeting of the Central Advisory Board of Archaeology (CABA) concluded successfully at Bharat Mandapam in New Delhi. The meeting marked yet another milestone in the collective effort towards protecting and promoting India's rich archaeological heritage sites. In his keynote address, (CABA), Shri Gajendra Singh Shekhawat, Union Minister of Culture and Tourism, laid out a dynamic, inclusive and forward-looking roadmap in the field of archaeology, excavations, explorations and conservation.

 

He emphasized the pivotal role of the Archaeological Survey of India (ASI) in safeguarding the nation's rich cultural legacy. While lauding the recent increasing number of excavation and exploration work, Minister stressed on making excavation and exploration projects more extensive, inclusive and far reaching. Moreover, he outlined the revamping of the Underwater Archaeology Wing (UAW) of ASI, under which explorations are undergoing in Dwarka waters. Reiterating the motto of Prime Minister  Shri Narendra Modi of 'Vikas bhi Virasat bhi', he emphasised on enhancing the experience of visitors and tourists at heritage sites. He also highlighted the successful repatriation of antiquities to India, marking it as a major achievement in restoring the nation's cultural identity. Furthermore, he highlighted ASI's active role not only within India but also in conserving and preserving historical sites overseas, reflecting India's commitment to global cultural heritage. He also emphasized the need for consistent annual meetings of CABA to ensure regular dialogue and collaborative planning among stakeholders in the field of archaeology and heritage conservation.

The crucial meeting began with paying homage to the departed members of CABA and the victims of the recent Pahalgam terror attack.

The insightful meeting was organised under the esteemed leadership of Shri Gajendra Singh Shekhawat, Union Minister of Culture and Tourism, Government of India, and convened under the aegis of Director-General, Archaeological Survey of India (ASI). Furthermore, the meeting was graced by Member of Parliament (Rajya Sabha), Dr. Sumer Singh Solanki; Secretary, Ministry of Culture, Shri Vivek Aggarwal, IAS, along with other key dignitaries, experts, senior officials and stakeholders from across the country.

Shri Vivek Aggarwal, Secretary, Ministry of Culture, highlighted the rich legacy of the Archaeological Survey of India (ASI) in preserving and conserving India’s diverse heritage and monuments. Emphasizing the need for innovation and modernisation in the field of heritage management, he focused on leveraging technology into the conservation and preservation processes including in the field of epigraphy. He highlighted the potential of deploying Artificial Intelligence (AI)-based tour guides at heritage sites to enhance the visitor experience. The Secretary also underscored the potential of heritage conservation in contributing to the economy. He proposed that traditional artists and sculptors associated with heritage work be supported as creative start-ups. This, he noted, would not only promote traditional skills but also ensure employment opportunities. While lauding successful partnership, He highlighted ASI's partnership of 37 heritage sites, under the Adopt A Heritage scheme, with the private sector. Highlighting the economic potential of heritage tourism, he suggested identifying more potential heritage sites as once the sites are declared UNESCO heritage sites, they often experience a surge in tourist activity, contributing in employment and revenue.

The meeting witnessed the enthusiastic participation from the attendees and dignitaries comprising heads or the representatives or the Directors of Culture and Archaeology of the various State Governments and insightful discussions on   initiatives, discoveries, and proposals for the protection and restoration of significant sites. The Board also reviewed the progress of projects under ASI, and brainstormed ideas on future archaeological endeavours.

The Board was conceptualized and formed by the Government of India in 1945, with the intention of promoting closer contacts of the Archaeological Survey of India with Indian Universities conducting Archaeological Researches and other institutions carrying out studies related to application of archaeological Principles and training the future archaeologists and providing for closer association of learned societies in India and of state governments with the activities of ASI. Every three years, the Board is reconstituted through a notification after the approval of the Minister of Culture, GOI, who is the Chairman of the CABA.

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Sunil Kumar Tiwari

pibculture[at]gmail[dot]com

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