New Policy Allows Private Sector Participation in Monument Conservation

monument conservation and private sector participation

1. What Is the New Policy Change?

For the first time, conservation of India’s protected monuments will no longer be the sole mandate of the Archaeological Survey of India (ASI). Private players, corporates, public sector undertakings (PSUs), and non-profits will be allowed to participate in conservation projects through a public–private partnership (PPP) model.

2. Why Was This Change Introduced?

- To enhance capacity in heritage conservation.

- To fast-track projects that were often delayed under ASI’s exclusive mandate.

- To mobilise additional funding beyond government allocations.

- To bring in expertise from private organisations in project implementation.

3. How Will the New System Work?

- Ministry of Culture will float Requests for Proposals (RFPs) to empanel conservation architects.

- Donors (corporates/PSUs) will choose an architect from the panel.

- The chosen architect will guide the conservation process and compliance.

- Execution may be undertaken by external agencies, but DPRs (Detailed Project Reports) must be approved by ASI.

- ASI remains the supervisory authority ensuring quality and adherence to the National Policy for Conservation, 2014.

4. What Is the Role of the National Culture Fund (NCF)?

- Set up in 1996 with a corpus of ₹20 crore.

- Used to mobilise contributions from corporates and PSUs.

- Around ₹140 crore has flowed into NCF so far.

- Funded over 100 conservation projects across India.

- Donations are eligible for 100% tax exemptions under CSR.

5. Which Projects Are Covered Under This Initiative?

Completed/Ongoing Projects include:

- Bhuleshwar Temple, Pune

- British Residency, Osmania University, Hyderabad

- Group of monuments, Mandu (MP)

- Red Fort and Purana Qila, Delhi

- Vikramshila excavated remains, Bihar

- National Heritage Site at Deobaloda, Chhattisgarh

- Tourist infrastructure at Kala Amb, Panipat, and Singorgarh Fort (MP)

6. What Is the Significance of This Move?

- Promotes PPP in heritage conservation, creating sustainable models.

- Increases corporate involvement via CSR funds and tax benefits.

- Diversifies implementation beyond ASI, encouraging efficiency.

- May help restore monuments faster and make conservation financially viable.

- Provides credit to donors for supporting India’s cultural heritage.

7. What Safeguards Are in Place?

- ASI will retain supervisory powers.

- Compliance timelines will be tightened.

- DPR approval ensures projects align with national conservation norms.

- Corporate funding is routed through the NCF, avoiding misuse.

Synopsis

The government has allowed private participation in monument conservation, ending ASI’s exclusive role. Through the National Culture Fund, corporates and PSUs can now support heritage projects, gaining tax incentives while ensuring better resources for conservation. With ASI supervising and approving project designs, this move blends public oversight with private expertise, paving the way for a sustainable PPP model in cultural heritage management.