Question : MAINTENANCE OF PROTECTED MONUMENTS

(a) the number of protected monuments and archaeological sites ,separately under the Archaeological Survey of India`s care;

(b) the details of the protected monuments /archaeological sites being maintained at present by public - private partnership;

(c) whether the Archaeological Survey of India is reeling from a resource crunch for upkeep/ maintenance of these protected monuments / archaeological sites;

(d) if so, whether the Government is exploring the prospect of greater corporate participation in conservation of protected monuments in the country;

(e) if so, the details in this regard; and

(f) the further steps taken by the government in this regard?

MINISTER OF THE ATATE IN THE MINISTRY OF TOURISM AND CULTURE (SHRIMATI AMBIKA SONI)

(a) to (f) The statement is laid on the table of the house.

STATEMENT REFERRED TO IN REPLY TO PART (a) TO (f) OF THE LOK SABHA STARRED QUESTION NO.334 FOR 14.12.2006 REGARDING MAINTENANCE OF PROTECTED MONUMENTS

The number of protected monuments and ancient sites under the Archaeological Survey of India is 3667. An abstract of protected monuments/sites (state-wise) is given in Annexure-I.

None of the protected monuments are maintained through Public Private Partnership. Nine projects have been identified for Public Private Partnership for conservation / development of visitors facilities. Works on three such monuments are in progress. Details of these projects are provided in Annexure II.

Considering the enormity of the task of conservation and preservation of the protected monuments / sites, Archaeological Survey of India requires more funds. The Government is exploring the possibility of obtaining funds from the Public and Private Sector Corporates through the National Culture Fund for the conservation / preservation of the protected monuments. This subject was discussed with the representatives of the Corporate sector in the meeting of the governing council of the National Culture Fund and follow up action is being taken based on the recommendations of the council.

The Ministry of Culture has also proposed that the Archaeological Survey of India may be allowed to retain the revenue collected from the sale of tickets for meeting the conservation needs. A final decision in this matter is awaited. Besides, the Archaeological Survey of India would be seeking increased allocations for the Eleventh Plan and detailed proposals in this regard are being finalized.