The Ministry of Culture provided details on cultural heritage conservation and tourism promotion through a written reply in Rajya Sabha by Union Minister for Culture and Tourism Shri Gajendra Singh Shekhawat. The Archaeological Survey of India (ASI) is responsible for 3,688 centrally protected monuments and sites across the country, which are conserved according to the National Conservation Policy. Regular condition assessments and daily maintenance are conducted based on requirements and resource availability.
ASI undertakes conservation and preservation of all centrally protected monuments, including lesser-known ones, and develops visitor amenities such as pathways, signage, drinking water facilities, toilets, benches, cultural notice boards, and site museums where feasible. The organization promotes heritage awareness through digital initiatives, cultural programs, exhibitions, outreach programs, and information dissemination during World Heritage Day, World Heritage Week, and Museum Day. Additionally, ASI conducts seminars and workshops for students and scholars to deepen knowledge about India's cultural heritage.
The Ministry of Tourism promotes tourism destinations and products holistically, including cultural and heritage tourism at lesser-known destinations. Promotion initiatives include organizing tourism promotional events with stakeholders, digital promotion through social media in collaboration with influencers, and showcasing destinations through the Incredible India Digital portal. Regional stakeholder engagements are organized by India Tourism offices under the Dekho Apna Desh initiative to promote awareness of these destinations.
Detailed state-wise allocation and expenditure data for conservation, preservation, and environmental development of protected monuments over the last five years is provided in Annexure-I, though the specific figures are not included in the main text. All 3,688 monuments under ASI's care are regularly inspected by technical staff, with conservation and development works planned and executed based on condition, priority, and requirements subject to resource availability.