The Iron Pillar of Delhi or Ashoka Column is a 7 m column in the Qutb complex, notable for the rust-resistant composition of the metals used in its construction and along with the ancient and medieval monuments surrounding it, form the Qutb Complex, which is a UNESCO World Heritage Site in Mehrauli, Delhi / The pillars of Ashoka are a series of columns dispersed throughout the Indian subcontinent, erected or at least inscribed with edicts by the Mauryan king Ashoka during his reign in the 3rd century BC / The pillar weighs over 6,000 kg, and is thought to have originally been erected in what is now Udayagiri by one of the Gupta monarchs in approximately 402 CE, though the precise date and location are a matter of dispute/ It was transported to its current location in 1233 CE.
The Delhi government’s archaeology department is all set to roll out a new scheme called ‘Adopt a Heritage’ to involve private companies, civic groups, and local communities in preserving and promoting the city’s historical monuments. This initiative aims not only at conserving the heritage of the capital city but also at improving tourism and creating business opportunities around lesser-known sites.
Under the new plan, several groups, organisations, and companies will be roped in to adopt a monument for five years by enrolling as a “Friend of a Monument.” This adoption arrangement will be periodically reviewed, with the primary focus on upgrading facilities and enhancing the experience of visitors and tourists.
At a meeting held at the Secretariat recently, the entire plan of action for the movement was discussed with the vision of transforming these heritage sites into cultural hubs. Proposals discussed in the meeting involved providing basic amenities, organising cultural programmes, and involving businesses to strengthen visitor engagement. Representatives from UNESCO, Aga Khan Trust, Dalmia Group, and INTACH Delhi chapter participated in the deliberations.
Kapil Mishra, Delhi’s Art and Culture Minister, said that the city’s monuments date back from the 8th to the 19th century. “All these monuments are invaluable markers of history and architecture, and so the government is planning to further secure these sites from vanishing in the face of time,” he said.
“ These monuments are priceless parts of our heritage. Some, like Bhooli Bhatiyari Palace, Malcha Mahal, Dara Shikoh Library, and Hastsal Minar, are unique but remain under-visited,” said the minister. Mishra also highlighted that the government has already restored about 75 neglected monuments in the city. “Through this new scheme, one can now hope to see wider public engagement to make heritage spaces more vibrant.”
“ Our aim is to turn these historic monuments into cultural centres where local artists can showcase their talent,” said Mishra.
According to officials, the project will ensure that lesser-known monuments receive as much attention as the city’s more iconic sites like the Red Fort or Qutub Minar.
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