Adopt a Heritage – Apni Dharohar, Apni Pehchaan Scheme

“Adopt a Heritage: Apni Dharohar, Apni Pehchaan”, is a collaborative effort between the Ministry of Tourism, Ministry of Culture and Archaeological Survey of India (ASI), and State/UTs Governments. The Project aims to develop synergy among all partners to effectively promote “responsible tourism”.

Priority Areas

The priority areas under the scheme are as follows:

• Developing basic tourism infrastructure;
• Promoting cultural and heritage value of the country to generate livelihoods in the identified regions;
• Enhancing the tourist attractiveness in a sustainable manner by developing world-class infrastructure at the heritage monument sites;
• Creating employment through active involvement of local communities;
• Harnessing tourism potential for its effects in employment generation and economic development;
• Developing sustainable tourism infrastructure and ensuring proper Operations and Maintenance therein.

Need

India is a cradle of civilization and it’s the duty of every Indian to preserve the rich heritage and culture of great Indian civilization. The duty to preserve the rich heritage of the country is also enshrined in the fundamental duties.

ASI that administers over 3,000 monuments lacks fund and is overworked. Private players can aid in building the gap as they are already mandated to do public service through CSR activities under companies act.

What are the concerns?

Privatisation of monuments

The concern of privatisation is unwarranted for. As there is no selling of monuments but only handing over for their upkeep and maintenance.

Indemnity clause

Dalmia Group’s MoU with the government includes an ‘indemnity clause’ that will protect them in case of any damage to the ancient structures. The official circular of Adopt a heritage appropriates no penalty, and says that the “fourth party” will be held “harmless” against any loss, costs and expenses.This is a cause of concern and needs to be addressed.

Public-private partnerships should be welcome in the effort of ensuring the survival of our heritage. With course-correction, the scheme can be a promising model for elevating India’s tourism credentials.