As the world advances human activities go on increasing and expanding. This constantly increases the threat to both natural and cultural heritage. As a result, time and again the government forms stricter laws and make them even stricter so that heritage can be preserved.
- The government framed ‘Ancient Monuments and Archaeological Sites and Remains Act’ in 1958. This act works as a guideline for preserving antique artistic work, religious places, historical memorials and archaeological sites, etc.
- This archaeological act ensures that no person or agency can conduct archaeological excavation without the prior permission of government.
- This act helped in stopping excavation done either illegally or with unethical means. This has helped in preserve our various heritage sites.
- It is important to note that just framing the laws will not save the heritage. The laws should be strictly followed. Moreover, it is also the moral duty of the citizens to adhere to the laws and support the preservation.
Role of Department of Archaeology in preserving the monuments:
- The government of India declared some historical places as ‘National Monuments’.
- Department of Archaeology is responsible to take care for the preservation of these monuments as well as other important heritage sites which are either destroyed or on the verge of destruction.
- The department of Archaeology does the maintenance work in such a manner that the monuments and sites remain preserved in their original shape, size and condition.
- The Archaeological Survey of India (ASI) is an organization that takes care about archaeological research and protecting cultural heritage. It has more than 5000 monuments and sites under its protection.
- The department has done wonderful jobs countless times. For example, due to the construction of Nagaijunsagar Multipurpose Project, Sangameshwar temple and Papnasham temples in Andhra Pradesh were about to submerge in the sea. To save these temples, they were successfully shifted to Alampur at Mehboobnagar district of Andhra Pradesh.
- Another example is of Taj Mahal of Agra which is one of the Seven Wonders of the World.
- Mathura oil refinery and other industries near the Taj were causing very high level of pollution. The pollution was making the white marble of Taj Mahal pale and yellowish.
- The department of archaeology took active steps and got the pollution causing industries shut. Moreover, the department also performed regular cleaning of the monument and brought its brightness back.
