How is Maharashtra Protecting Its Heritage from Encroachments?
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Synopsis
Maharashtra takes a bold step to preserve its heritage by forming a State-Level Committee to eliminate encroachments on protected monuments. Chaired by Ashish Shelar, the committee aims to safeguard the state's rich history and enhance tourism.
Key Takeaways
- Formation of a State-Level Committee to protect historical monuments.
- Committee chaired by Ashish Shelar.
- Focus on removing encroachments from 390 state-protected monuments.
- Promotion of tourism to boost local economies.
- Inter-departmental coordination to ensure effective operations.
Mumbai, Dec 17 (NationPress) In an important initiative to safeguard the historical essence of Maharashtra's heritage, the State Cabinet announced on Wednesday the formation of a State-Level Committee led by the Minister of Cultural Affairs, Ashish Shelar.
The committee's main goal is to ensure that state-protected monuments, including forts, are kept free from encroachments. Maharashtra boasts 390 state-protected monuments along with 145 temples, such as Tulja Bhavani and Jejuri.
This project encompasses various sites including the August Kranti Maidan, St George Fort, Dharavi Fort, and Khandeshwari Caves; in the Konkan region, it includes ancient petroglyphs in Ratnagiri; and the birthplaces of national heroes like Vasudev Balwant Phadke and Senapati Bapat. Additionally, the project covers the birthplaces of Yashwantrao Chavan and Baji Prabhu Deshpande in Western Maharashtra.
The Cabinet remarked, "The removal of unauthorized constructions is not just an administrative duty but a vital step for the scientific conservation of our history."
This decision aims to maintain the historical authenticity of ancient sites, boost the district development agenda through tourism promotion, and enhance the state's reputation in heritage conservation rankings.
The committee will consist of a high-level group of ministers and secretaries to ensure effective inter-departmental collaboration, including the Ministers of Revenue, Rural Development, Tourism, Public Works Department (PWD), Forests, and Ports Development. It will also include Secretaries from Finance, Planning, Cultural Affairs, Urban Development, Home, Revenue, Rural Development, Tourism, PWD, Forests, and Ports Development.
A previous Government Resolution (GR) dated January 20, 2025, had focused on removing encroachments from forts—both central and state-protected—but the new directive broadens this focus to encompass all state-protected monuments, as per a release from the Minister for Cultural Affairs, Ashish Shelar.
The State-Level Committee will supervise the operations of District-Level Committees, devise strategic policies, and offer necessary guidance. The government emphasized that the removal of unauthorized structures is crucial for the preservation of monuments.
Moreover, transforming these sites into tourist attractions is expected to stimulate local economies and accelerate regional growth. To expedite the removal of encroachments and facilitate conservation efforts, the Planning Department has been empowered to directly allocate funds to District Collectors.
Point of View
I believe it is crucial for Maharashtra to protect its rich heritage. Establishing a State-Level Committee is a commendable step towards ensuring the preservation of our historical sites. This initiative not only safeguards our past but also promises to enhance tourism and bolster local economies.
NationPress
17/12/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the purpose of the State-Level Committee?
The State-Level Committee aims to remove encroachments from state-protected monuments and ensure their conservation.
Who will chair the committee?
The committee will be chaired by the Minister for Cultural Affairs, Ashish Shelar.
How many monuments are protected in Maharashtra?
Maharashtra currently has 390 state-protected monuments.
What impact will this initiative have?
This initiative is expected to preserve historical authenticity, promote tourism, and enhance the state's reputation in heritage conservation.
How will the committee operate?
The committee will oversee District-Level Committees, create strategic policies, and provide guidance for effective monument conservation.
