(a) whether the Government proposes to launch a National Mission for Monuments;
(b) if so, the details thereof;
(c) the procedure to be followed to identify the monuments under the Mission;
(d) whether Non-Governmental Organisations would also be involved for the development and maintenance of monuments; and
(e) if so, the details thereof?
MINISTER OF TOURISM AND CULTURE (SHRIMATI AMBIKA SONI)
(a) Yes, Sir. Government proposes to launch the National Mission on Monuments and Antiquities.
(b) The National Mission for Monuments & Antiquities is proposed to be set up under the Ministry of Tourism & Culture. The Archaeological Survey of India will be the Nodal Agency for implementation of the Mission.
The mandate of the Mission would include :-
(i) Developing a comprehensive database for unprotected build heritage and antiquities.
(ii) To conserve in a sustainable manner selected unprotected monuments.
(iii) Inculcating and promoting awareness on built heritage and antiquarian wealth and participation in conservation efforts.
(iv) To strengthen communication and dissemination levels of information through popular literature and publications.
(v) Capacity building in State Archaeology Departments & NGO’s in respect of heritage protection & preservation.
The proposed National Mission on Monuments & Antiquities is for a period of five years with a total budgetary outlay of Rs. 90.00 crores.
The Mission would be launched on receipt of the approval by the Expenditure Finance Committee.
(c) Detailed working procedures of the Mission are yet to be finalized, which will be done in consultation with the State Level Implementation Committees.
(d)&(e) The Mission proposes to draw upon the expertise available with State Government, NGOs, Universities, Academic Bodies and other research organization. As noted above, detailed procedures would be finalized in consultation with the State Level Implementation Committees.