In a major policy shift, the conservation of monuments in India is set to open up to the private sector within the next two weeks. This move will allow corporate donors to directly engage with empanelled conservation agencies, a responsibility that has so far rested solely with the Archaeological Survey of India (ASI). The change is aimed at accelerating conservation efforts and bringing in additional expertise and resources.
The Ministry of Culture is currently in the process of empanelling conservation architects and agencies that specialise in heritage restoration. According to sources, more than 20 private agencies from across the country have already applied in response to a Request for Proposal (RFP) issued by the ministry. These agencies have prior experience in conserving historical and cultural monuments.
Once empanelled, private conservation agencies will be able to work on monument restoration projects funded by corporate donors under government-approved frameworks. This is expected to reduce the burden on ASI, which is responsible for maintaining thousands of protected monuments across India with limited manpower and funds.
Officials believe that allowing private participation will improve efficiency, introduce modern conservation techniques, and ensure better upkeep of heritage structures. Corporate donors, meanwhile, will be able to play a more active role by choosing projects and directly supporting conservation work, while still adhering to strict heritage protection norms.
The initiative also reflects the government’s broader push for public-private partnerships in culture and heritage management. By involving specialised agencies, the authorities hope to ensure higher technical standards and timely completion of restoration projects without compromising historical authenticity.
Experts have welcomed the move but stressed the need for strong oversight and clear guidelines. They caution that while private participation can bring investment and innovation, the ASI and the Ministry of Culture must retain regulatory control to safeguard the historical, cultural, and archaeological value of India’s monuments.