Heritage sites must be preserved because they are irreplaceable evidence of our history and culture; this needs protection by law, scientific conservation and active public participation.
Need to preserve heritage sites
- They are primary sources of history and tell us about the life, art, architecture and technology of earlier times.
- They are part of our cultural identity and national pride.
- Once destroyed they cannot be recreated, so they must be passed on safely to future generations.
- They attract tourists, which provides employment and income to local people.
- They are useful for research and education.
Measures required
- Strict implementation of laws protecting monuments, and action against encroachment, vandalism and theft.
- Scientific conservation and restoration by experts (for example, by the Archaeological Survey of India).
- Controlling pollution and the number of visitors around sensitive sites.
- Keeping the surroundings clean and providing proper facilities and guides for tourists.
- Spreading awareness through schools, media and heritage walks, and making visitors responsible (no writing on walls, no littering).
- Involving local people, NGOs and the government, and providing adequate funds.