Delhi Cabinet Approves Two Schemes to Restore 75 Heritage Monuments
On Monday, the Delhi cabinet approved two new conservation schemes to restore and maintain 75 heritage monuments across Delhi, including landmark sites such as the haveli of Mirza Ghalib, Bhuli Bhatiyari ka mahal, the Mutiny Memorial, and the Dara Shikoh library building. The initiatives aim to preserve historical sites outside the jurisdiction of the Archaeological Survey of India through public-private partnerships.
The two approved initiatives are the Delhi Chief Minister Monument Adoption Scheme and the Grant-in-Aid Scheme for Conservation, Restoration and Development Works of Monuments. Both schemes cover local heritage sites protected under the Delhi Ancient and Historical Monuments and Archaeological Sites and Remains Act, 2004, which include various tombs, gateways, and baolis (step wells) across the city.
Under the monument adoption scheme, public sector undertakings, private companies, registered non-governmental organisations (NGOs), trusts, institutions, and individuals can adopt selected monuments for a period of five years. These participants will be known as "Monument Mitras."
The Monument Mitras will fund and maintain basic visitor facilities, including lighting, cleanliness, and security. According to an official from the Chief Minister's office, these responsibilities will be managed through a tripartite agreement signed between the Delhi government, the adopter, and the respective land-owning agency. Any revenue generated through approved activities at these sites must be utilised entirely for the monument’s upkeep.
In contrast, the Grant-in-Aid Scheme is designed to fund technical restoration. It will provide financial assistance of up to ₹2 crore to eligible trusts, NGOs, universities, educational institutions, and autonomous bodies to carry out core conservation works. Voluntary organisations seeking this assistance must be registered on the Centre’s Darpan portal.
Chief Minister Rekha Gupta explained the distinction between the two programs, stating that the schemes serve different purposes. While Monument Mitras will use their own resources to provide and maintain visitor amenities, the Grant-in-Aid Scheme will provide financial assistance to eligible and specialised institutions for the core conservation, restoration, and other technical conservation works of the monuments.
