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India is one of the largest repositories of tangible heritage, with monuments, sites, and antiquities spanning from prehistoric times to the colonial era. While various organizations like the ASI, State Archaeology Departments, and INTACH have documented parts of this heritage, much remains scattered or undocumented. The absence of a unified database makes research, conservation, and management challenging. To address this, the National Mission on Monuments and Antiquities (NMMA) was launched to systematically document and digitize built heritage, sites, and antiquities. Through standardized documentation, training programs, and public awareness, NMMA aims to create a comprehensive national database, ensuring the preservation of India’s rich cultural legacy.
National Mission on Monuments and Antiquities
Established in 2007, the NMMA is responsible for the digitization and documentation of India’s built heritage and antiquities. It has made significant progress in compiling national registers for monuments and antiquities.
Achievements of NMMA:
-Digitization of Antiquities: 12,34,937 antiquities have been digitized, including 4,46,068 from ASI Museums/Circles/Branches and 7,88,869 from other institutions.
-Built Heritage & Sites: 11,406 sites and monuments have been documented.
-Budget Allocation: Rs. 20 lakh were allocated for NMMA in the FY 2024-25.
Objectives of NMMA:
–Documenting and creating a national database of built heritage, monuments, and antiquities for better management and research.
–Ensuring uniform documentation of antiquities across central, state, private institutions, and universities.
–Raising awareness about cultural heritage preservation.
–Providing training and capacity building for state departments, local bodies, museums, NGOs, and universities.
–Enhancing collaboration between the Archaeological Survey of India (ASI), state departments, and other stakeholders.
Ancient Monuments and Archaeological Sites and Remains Act 1958
The Ancient Monuments and Archaeological Sites and Remains Act 1958 (AMASR Act 1958) was enacted by the Parliament with an aim “to provide for the preservation of ancient and historical monuments and archaeological sites and remains of national importance, for the regulation of archaeological excavations and for the protection of sculptures, carvings, and other like objects.
As per the AMASR Act 1958, the following are the definitions of ancient monuments:
“Ancient monument” means any structure, erection, or monument, or any tumulus or place of internment, or any cave, rock sculpture, inscription, or monolith, which is of historical, archaeological, or artistic interest and which has been in existence for not less than one hundred years, and includes:
–The remains of an ancient monument
–The site of an ancient monument
–Such portion of land adjoining the site of an ancient monument as may be required for fencing, covering, or otherwise preserving such monument
–The means of access to, and convenient inspection of, an ancient monument
The scope of documentation of Built Heritage by the National Mission on Monuments and Antiquities (NMMA) has been enhanced by defining any structure that belongs to the pre-independence period, and the year 1950 has been considered as the cut-off date keeping in view of historical importance.
Conclusion
The digitization and documentation of India’s cultural heritage are crucial for its preservation and accessibility. The National Mission on Monuments and Antiquities (NMMA) plays a vital role in this effort by standardizing records, training stakeholders, and promoting public awareness. By leveraging technology and collaboration, NMMA ensures that India’s vast heritage is systematically documented, protected, and made available for research and education. A unified and comprehensive database will not only aid in conservation but also strengthen cultural identity for future generations.