Maharashtra Government Advocates for Transfer of ASI-Fort Protection to State
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Synopsis
Maharashtra Cultural Affairs Minister Ashish Shelar has called for the transfer of ASI-protected forts to the state government to facilitate better conservation and development, emphasizing the cultural significance of these historic sites.
Key Takeaways
- Maharashtra seeks ASI fort transfer for better conservation.
- Cultural Affairs Minister highlights significance of forts.
- State government equipped for heritage preservation.
- Initiatives for tourism and CSR involvement proposed.
- Commitment to safeguarding Maratha-era forts reaffirmed.
Mumbai, March 25 (NationPress) The Maharashtra Cultural Affairs Minister Ashish Shelar has formally requested the Centre on Tuesday to hand over the forts protected by the Archaeological Survey of India (ASI) to the state government, aiming for improved conservation and development.
In a correspondence to the Union Culture Minister Gajendra Singh Shekhawat, he highlighted that the historic forts of the great Maratha warrior Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj are enduring emblems of courage, tenacity, and Maharashtra's vibrant heritage.
"These significant historical structures, which serve as a source of inspiration for numerous generations, possess profound cultural and emotional importance for the state's populace," stated the minister.
Recognizing the urgent need for dedicated preservation, he expressed, "I have requested the transfer of the forts protected by the Archaeological Survey of India (ASI) to the Maharashtra government for improved conservation and development."
The minister emphasized that the Maharashtra Directorate of Archaeology and Museums is well-prepared to execute conservation efforts via its panel of contractors and architects specializing in heritage preservation.
The government is poised to promote heritage-friendly tourism initiatives and engage CSR contributors for the upkeep of these forts through programs like 'Maha Varasa' and 'Vaibhav Sangopan'. Maharashtra is home to 54 forts protected at the central level and 62 at the state level.
In his letter, Shelar underscored the state's proactive commitment to heritage preservation, having undertaken extensive conservation for the state-protected forts.
Reiterating its dedication, the state Cabinet, during its meeting on February 18, affirmed its strong intent to be actively involved in the preservation of Maratha-era forts that hold significant historical and emotional value.
Minister Shelar pointed out Maharashtra's recent initiative to lead a delegation to the International Council on Monuments and Sites (ICOMOS) in Paris to propose the inclusion of 12 historic forts under the theme 'Maratha Military Landscape of India' in the esteemed UNESCO World Heritage Sites List.
The forts include Raigad, Rajgad, Pratapgad, Panhala, Shivneri, Lohagad, Salher, Sindhudurg, Suvarnadurg, Vijaydurg, Khanderi Fort, and Jinji Fort in Tamil Nadu. The delegation included Janhawij Sharma, Additional Director General (Conservation and World Heritage), ASI.
"These forts, once the bastions of Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj, continue to motivate millions. It is our solemn obligation to preserve them for future generations," asserted Minister Shelar.
He has urged the Union Minister to act promptly and instruct the ASI to commence the process of transferring the forts to the Maharashtra government, ensuring focused conservation efforts.
"We take immense pride in safeguarding these heritage sites and will persist in maintaining their legacy for generations ahead," he concluded.
