What the article is about:
- The article talks about CAG report on pitiable state of heritage conservation
Relevance:
- Prelims
- GS1: Indian heritage sites.
- GS2: constitutional bodies.
Analysis:
- The CAG’s report on the state of India’s heritage showed the poor state of our monuments and antiquities.
- CAG:
- CAG is an independent authority under the Constitution of India.
- He is the head of the Indian audit & account department and chief Guardian of Public purse.
- Article 148 broadly deals with the CAG appointment, oath and conditions of service.
Key observations of the 2022 report
- There is no national policy on archeological exploration and excavation.
- ASI has estimated some 58 lakh plus antiquities all over India, but there is no database or inventory in its possession.
- ASI budget for exploration and excavation is less than 1 percent.
- There is no synergy between the different agencies involved in heritage conservation..
- The National culture fund established in 1996, has utilised only 14% of its funds because of the lack of coordination with the ASI.
- National Culture Fund:
- NCF was established as Trust under Charitable Endowment Act, 1890 as funding mechanism distinct from existing sources and patterns of funding for arts and culture in India.
- It aims at inviting individuals as well as private institutions in the task of promoting, protecting and preserving India’s cultural heritage.
- ASI (Archeological survey of India):
- ASI, under the Ministry of Culture, is the premier organization for the archaeological research and protection of the cultural heritage of the nation.
- It was founded in 1861 by Alexander Cunningham- the first Director-General of ASI. Alexander Cunningham is also known as the “Father of Indian Archaeology”.
Conclusion:
- To preserve the heritage of India there is need of better coordination among various agencies established for this purpose.
- There is need to develop a national digital database for all the antiquities of India, along with it, more financial allocation needs to be done for conservation of our heritage.
