Union Minister of Culture and Tourism, Shri Gajendra Singh Shekhawat, emphasized the unique influence of India’s cultural heritage in strengthening the nation’s global identity. Speaking at the 14th Foundation Day of the National Monuments Authority (NMA) at Bharat Mandapam, New Delhi, he stressed that India’s cultural power complements its technological, economic, and strategic advancements. This dual approach, he noted, enhances India’s global standing while preserving its heritage with dignity. The Minister also highlighted the importance of adopting scientific methods in heritage conservation to minimize disruptions to citizens’ lives.

Key Highlights of the Address:

1. Historical Context and Cultural Revival:
   Shri Shekhawat remarked on efforts over two centuries to undermine India’s rich traditions and asserted that the past decade has witnessed a government-led resurgence in both national development and heritage conservation. These efforts have garnered global respect for India’s cultural heritage and instilled a renewed sense of pride among citizens.
2. Achievements of the National Monuments Authority (NMA):
   • The Minister released the Annual Report 2023-24, the first such publication by the NMA, detailing its progress and activities.
   • The NMA has laid 55 Heritage Bye-Laws (HBLs) covering 98 Centrally Protected Monuments in Parliament, with another 53 HBLs for 57 monuments approved.
   • It has implemented the NMA Online Application Processing System (NOAPS) portal, integrating ISRO’s technology through the SMARAC mobile app. This innovation simplifies construction permissions around protected monuments and supports the government’s “Ease of Doing Business” initiative.
3. Vision for Heritage Conservation:
   Shri Shekhawat underscored the need to strengthen India’s heritage management systems, leveraging advancements in IT and scientific methodologies to ensure efficient and effective conservation efforts. He expressed confidence in the NMA’s capacity to continue building on its achievements to preserve India’s cultural legacy.
4. Cultural Identity and Global Recognition:
   The Minister noted that India’s efforts to balance modernization with heritage conservation have significantly enhanced its international prestige, fostering a global appreciation of its cultural legacy.

Shri Shekhawat was joined by Professor Kishor K. Basa, Chairman of the NMA, senior officials from the Ministry of Culture, and representatives from the Archaeological Survey of India (ASI). The event celebrated the NMA’s milestones while setting a roadmap for future endeavors in cultural preservation.