Mumbai, March 25 (NationPress) Maharashtra's Cultural Affairs Minister, Ashish Shelar, announced in the State Assembly on Wednesday that the region is embarking on a significant initiative focused on the preservation of its historic forts.

A specialized Fort Conservation Authority will be created to oversee the management of forts recognized by UNESCO, as well as to safeguard those that remain unprotected, the Minister noted.

Minister Shelar highlighted that the state is home to 54 forts under the jurisdiction of the Central government and another 62 that are protected by the state.

The ongoing registration process for unprotected forts has already documented 25 forts located in forest areas.

A committee, led by Kiran H. Kulkarni, Secretary of the Cultural Affairs Department, will be established to supervise the new Fort Conservation Authority.

Funding for these initiatives will prioritize private investments, corporate social responsibility (CSR) contributions, and programs like 'Maha-Varasa'.

Shelar elaborated that under the “Maratha Military Landscape of India” concept, 12 forts associated with Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj are nominated for UNESCO World Heritage status.

A comprehensive site management plan is underway to introduce information boards, public utility centers, and tourism amenities at these historical sites.

Additionally, the Minister mentioned that a historic sword belonging to the founder of the Nagpur Bhonsle dynasty was acquired at an auction. Currently housed at the Central Museum in Nagpur, it will soon be displayed at the Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Vastu Sangrahalaya in Mumbai for public access.

Furthermore, Minister Shelar revealed that efforts are being made to have Maharashtra's public Ganeshotsav included in UNESCO's Intangible Cultural Heritage list.

A formal proposal will be submitted in collaboration with the Central government. Upcoming development meetings concerning the Jogeshwari Caves are scheduled, and conservation efforts for Dharamveer Gad and Rajguru Wada will be accelerated.

State Tourism Minister Shambhuraj Desai stated that a detailed strategy is being formulated to establish Maharashtra as a premier international tourist destination.

The budget for the Tourism Department has significantly increased from approximately Rs 1,500 crore last year to Rs 2,096 crore this fiscal year. Special campaigns are set to highlight Maharashtra's forts, beaches, religious sites, and natural attractions on the global tourism stage.

Desai noted the enthusiastic response from foreign tourists at the Mahabaleshwar and Panchgani festivals as a successful model for promoting the state's culture, cuisine, and artistry.

He informed the State Assembly that facilities and centers are being developed at select locations under this central initiative.

Proposals for development in Vidarbha (including Kalyaneshwar, Hanumangadi, and Navegaon) are currently under review.

A distinct plan for the beaches of Konkan is being drafted, with an emphasis on how improved road access to Goa's Mopa International Airport will enhance local tourism.

While pilgrimage sites typically fall under the Rural Development Department, the Tourism Department will extend financial assistance based on proposals from District Collectors to upgrade facilities at popular religious destinations.

Minister Desai reassured the Assembly that additional funds for local tourism needs will be considered in the upcoming supplementary demands.