ASI to invest ₹1,171 crore in transforming heritage sites into ‘living cultural spaces’

New Delhi: The Archaeological Survey of India has launched a nationwide initiative to upgrade site museums and develop 15 major archaeological destinations, with an estimated budget of over ₹1,171 crore.

Officials indicated that the programme is aimed at turning historically significant locations into more visitor-friendly cultural spaces. The plan covers key sites from the Harappan Civilisation as well as places linked to the Buddha and the Mahabharata tradition.

As part of the initiative, authorities said comprehensive development of major site museums would be undertaken, including building new museums near heritage sites and upgrading existing facilities at Sarnath and Purana Qila, The New Indian Express reported.

The programme also envisions opening up prominent excavation sites such as Rakhigarhi, Dholavira, and Lothal to the public through curated visitor experiences. According to documents reviewed by the newspaper, the ASI has proposed transforming these locations into “living cultural spaces,” while continuing its role as the custodian of thousands of monuments.

Officials further explained that the effort seeks to connect advanced archaeological research with public engagement by offering immersive and educational experiences, without affecting the integrity of heritage sites. Plans include building walkways and protective canopies at excavation sites like Rakhigarhi and Dholavira, along with landscaping and interpretation centres designed to present their historical importance in an engaging way.

The heritage-sensitive development programme will also cover destinations such as Adichanallur (Tamil Nadu), Sarnath (Uttar Pradesh), Hastinapur (Uttar Pradesh), Agroha (Haryana), Udayagiri, Sannati (Karnataka), Leh Palace (Ladakh), Chittorgarh Fort (Rajasthan), Jhansi Fort (Uttar Pradesh), Purana Qila (Delhi), Eran (Madhya Pradesh) and Sibasagar (Assam).

Authorities added that consultant advisors for each site would soon be finalised to oversee planning, design, and technical aspects. Once appointed, they are expected to begin work on concept development, implementation strategies, and detailed project reports to ensure world-class facilities.

Officials emphasised that the initiative is expected to improve public understanding of India’s civilisational heritage while creating better learning opportunities for students and researchers. They noted that the upgraded sites would combine storytelling with improved visitor amenities such as signage, rest areas, and ticketing systems, while also encouraging longer visits, boosting local economies, generating employment, and supporting community participation.