News Excerpt:
The Archaeological Survey of India (ASI) has set a deadline for the submission of applications for the “Adopt a Heritage 2.0” Program.

About Adopt a Heritage 2.0:

• It is a revamped version of the earlier Adopt a Heritage Scheme launched in 2017 and clearly defines the amenities sought for different monuments as per the AMASR, 1958.
• The stakeholders can apply to adopt a monument or specific amenities at a monument through a dedicated web portal.
• It seeks to foster collaboration with corporate stakeholders through which they can contribute to the preservation of these monuments for the next generations.
• This initiative aims to rejuvenate India's rich cultural heritage and is in line with the vision of 'Virasat Bhi, Vikas Bhi’ (development as well as heritage).
• The program includes a 5-year partnership, extendable based on performance review.
• The initiative covers amenities like hygiene, accessibility, safety, and knowledge enhancement for protected monuments.
• Organizations can adopt historical sites, contributing to CSR objectives, tourism, economic growth, and brand awareness.

Why was the Adopt a Heritage 2.0” programme launched?

• The ASI has 3696 monuments under protection, which are spread, throughout the country.
• These monuments not only exhibit the rich cultural heritage of India but also play a significant role in fostering economic growth.
•  In order to sustain the rich cultural legacy, the heritage sites require time-to-time enhancement of the amenities.
• To this end and to further enhance the experience of visitors, ASI launched the “Adopt a Heritage 2.0” programme in 2023.