In a significant policy shift, the conservation of India's centrally protected monuments will soon be opened to greater private sector participation. The Ministry of Culture is set to notify an empanelled pool of heritage conservation architects by the end of this month, enabling corporate donors to directly engage expertise for restoration projects.
A New Public-Private Partnership Model for Heritage
The new framework operates under the National Cultural Fund (NCF), a financing mechanism under the Ministry of Culture. Previously, the Archaeological Survey of India (ASI) was the sole executor of conservation work, even for projects funded by NCF donors. The revised model introduces a tripartite agreement. A memorandum of understanding will be signed between the NCF, the corporate donor, and the ASI.
Under this arrangement, donors contributing to the NCF can select a heritage conservation architect from the soon-to-be-notified empanelled list. Subsequently, they can also choose an executing agency to carry out the physical conservation work. Crucially, all projects will remain under the supervision of the ASI, ensuring adherence to archaeological standards.
Addressing Delays and Building Capacity
Officials cite the need for capacity building and reducing delays as key drivers for this change. The ASI is responsible for a staggering 3,685 monuments across the country. This new public-private partnership (PPP) model is designed to augment the ASI's conservation strength by leveraging private sector efficiency and specialized talent.
The Request for Proposal (RFP) for the empanelment of heritage conservation architects closed recently. It is learned that nearly 20 qualified architects with expertise in heritage conservation and restoration have submitted their proposals. After scrutiny, the final list is expected by month-end.
The RFP document highlights that this initiative will complement ASI's efforts and help create a national talent pool of human resources in the heritage sector. A major benefit for donors is the assurance that conservation work will be completed within a timeframe they help establish.
Implications for India's Cultural Legacy
This policy marks a strategic evolution in managing India's vast cultural heritage. The NCF has long served as a channel for philanthropic and corporate support to protect, restore, and conserve national treasures. By allowing donors more direct involvement in selecting technical experts, the government aims to make the process more attractive and efficient, potentially unlocking greater funding.
The success of this model will depend on maintaining a rigorous empanelment process to ensure only the most qualified architects are selected. Furthermore, the ASI's supervisory role will be critical in preserving the historical and structural integrity of monuments ranging from ancient temples and forts to colonial-era structures. This move could set a precedent for managing heritage assets not just in India, but for other nations with rich archaeological histories.
