The Archaeological Survey of India (ASI) has allocated Rs 22.72 crore for the conservation, preservation and environmental development of protected monuments in Jammu and Kashmir over the last three financial years and the current fiscal, with Rs 20.13 crore utilised so far, according to information furnished by the Union Government in the Lok Sabha.
The figures were provided by Union Minister for Culture and Tourism Gajendra Singh Shekhawat in a written reply to the Lok Sabha on conservation of national cultural heritage under the Ancient Monuments and Archaeological Sites and Remains Act, 1958, and the National Culture Fund (NCF).
According to the reply, ASI undertakes conservation and maintenance of protected monuments annually based on their requirements and the availability of resources. Regular inspections are also carried out by ASI officers to assess the condition of monuments and monitor conservation and renovation works.
The data show that J&K received an allocation of Rs 7.17 crore during 2023-24, which was fully utilised.
In 2024-25, Rs 4.90 crore was allocated, of which Rs 4.89 crore was spent. The allocation increased to Rs 5.95 crore in 2025-26, with the entire amount utilised.
For the current financial year, 2026-27, Rs 4.70 crore has been allocated to Jammu and Kashmir. Of this, Rs 2.12 crore had been utilised up to August 5.
Separately, the Ministry has approved an NCF project worth Rs 1.21 crore during 2026-27 for the development of amenities at the Shankaracharya Temple in Srinagar.
The project figures among NCF-supported works for conservation, renovation and development at ASI-protected monuments in Jammu and Kashmir.
The government clarified that monuments and heritage sites are not protected under the National Culture Fund itself. Instead, the NCF provides financial assistance for conservation, renovation and development works at selected monuments and cultural heritage sites protected by the ASI.
The Ministry said ASI also reviews visitor facilities, digital documentation, conservation activities and heritage promotion programmes at monuments under its jurisdiction.
It added that ASI field offices organise community-oriented heritage programmes, including heritage walks, talks, drawing and painting competitions, photo exhibitions and consultations with local communities and stakeholders to promote awareness about heritage conservation. (KNO)
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