New Delhi, Feb 12 (JKNS): The Archaeological Survey of India (ASI) is undertaking sustained measures for the conservation, preservation and protection of Centrally Protected Monuments in Jammu & Kashmir. This was stated by the Minister of Culture and Tourism, Shri Gajendra Singh Shekhawat, in a written reply to an Unstarred Question in the Rajya Sabha today.
The Minister informed that there are 56 Centrally Protected Monuments under the care and maintenance of the ASI in Jammu & Kashmir. Regular conservation and structural maintenance works are being carried out at these monuments in accordance with technical requirements and availability of resources.
Highlighting the adoption of modern documentation technologies, the Minister stated that the use of advanced tools such as LiDAR mapping, Geographic Information Systems (GIS), and drone-based surveys has been proposed for selected monuments to facilitate detailed documentation and scientific conservation planning. These include the Group of Temples at Naranag, Sun Temple Martand, and the Ancient Temple at Buniyar.
The ASI has also proposed integrated and phased development of selected heritage sites in the Union Territory, with a focus on conservation, enhancement of visitor amenities and strengthening heritage awareness.
For the financial year 2025-26, an allocation of ₹5.75 crore has been made for conservation and development works in Jammu & Kashmir, out of which ₹4.97 crore has been utilised up to 27 January 2026.
A number of conservation and development projects are planned for completion during 2025-26. Key monuments where conservation works are being undertaken include:
• Akhnoor Fort, Jammu
• Pratapswamin Temple, Baramulla
• Avantisvara Temple, Avantipur
• Hari Hara Shiva Temple, Billawar
• Trilochan Nath Temple, Kathua
• Ancient Stupa, Monastery and Chaitya at Parihaspora
• Group of Arched Terraces at Pari Mahal, Srinagar
• Sugandesha Temple, Baramulla
• Mughal Arcade, Verinag
• Zaina-ul-Abdin’s Mother’s Tomb, Srinagar
• Akhoon Mulla Shah Mosque
• Group of Temples at Naranag
In addition, development works aimed at improving visitor experience and site management are being undertaken at sites such as Ancient Temple Martand, Mughal Arcade Verinag, Avantiswamin Temple, Hari Hara Temple Billawar, and the Ancient Palace at Ramnagar, including upgradation of pathways, installation of CCTV cameras, improvement of toilet blocks and ticket counters, and strengthening of protective fencing.
The Minister further stated that heritage awareness and capacity-building programmes are being implemented through outreach initiatives involving local communities and educational institutions. These efforts have contributed to enhanced public awareness, improved visitor engagement and promotion of tourism, while ensuring preservation of the rich cultural heritage of Jammu & Kashmir. (JKNS)
