India and the Great Britain both have a very long history, culture and traditions that dates back to hundreds of years before Christ (BC). As a result, both countries have several monuments that have been declared by UNESCO as world heritage sites.
In the UK, we can visit places like Edinburgh Castle, Stonehenge, Royal Botanic Gardens (Kew) and Roman Baths that are outstanding with tremendous heritage value. It is a pleasure to visit them though they invariably attract some entry fees as the amount collected is used for their conservation.
Similarly, India also owns several ancient monuments that are spread over length and breadth of the country.
However, it is painful to find that many of these heritage sites are neither adequately preserved nor maintained properly. Ajanta-Ellora caves in Maharashtra or royal palaces in Mandu and Bhim Betka caves in Madhya Pradesh are appropriate examples in this regard.
Many such places have been spoiled by graffiti and are on the verge of destruction due to lack of sufficient care. They also lack tourist amenities and at times sufficient information is also not available to guide the travellers.
The apathy of the Indian Government in this matter is reflected in a new project called ' adopt a heritage'. Under this policy, monument like the Red Fort in Delhi, has been handed over to the Dalmia Bharat group for upkeep and development.
Government plans to entrust many such heritage sites, including the Taj Mahal, to corporates as also to individuals who then can use them for their own branding.
Bharat Shah
Rayners Lane
