- Visited the major archaeological site of Indus Valley (Harappan) Civilization during his visit to Haryana, stressed on conservation of Chhattisgarh’s archaeological heritage and giving a new direction to cultural tourism.
During his visit to Haryana, Chhattisgarh’s Tourism and Culture Minister, Mr. Rajesh Agrawal, visited the Rakhigarhi mound, a major archaeological site of the Indus Valley (Harappan) civilization, one of the world’s oldest urban civilizations. While inspecting this historical heritage, he gathered information about the archaeological remains found here, important evidence related to ancient town planning, craftsmanship, water management system and industrial activities. He said that Rakhigarhi is a wonderful proof of India’s ancient cultural, scientific and social progress, which establishes the rich heritage of Indian civilization before the world.
During the visit, Mr. Agarwal stated that Rakhigarhi is not merely an archaeological site, but a living document of the glorious history of Indian civilization. The remains found here prove that even thousands of years ago, India had well-organized town planning, a developed craft tradition, trade activities, and a rich cultural life. Such sites enrich our cultural consciousness and provide an opportunity to experience history firsthand, not just confined to books.
He said that it is our collective responsibility to preserve, promote, and preserve the historical significance of such invaluable archaeological heritage for future generations. Heritage preservation is not possible solely through government efforts, but also requires the active participation of society, educational institutions, researchers, and local communities.
Mr. Agarwal said that the preservation of archaeological sites like Rakhigarhi in Haryana is an inspiration for the entire country. Similarly, Chhattisgarh is a state rich in thousands of years of cultural and archaeological heritage. Numerous historical and archaeological sites like Sirpur, Barsoor, Bhoramdev, Madkudweep, Tala, Malhar, Ratanpur, Rajim, and Dantewada are invaluable treasures of Indian culture, architecture, and religious tolerance. These sites still preserve excellent evidence of ancient temple architecture, Buddhist viharas, Shaivite, Vaishnavite, and Jain traditions, establishing the state’s rich cultural identity at national and international levels.
He said that the Chhattisgarh government, through the Tourism and Culture Department, is continuously working to preserve, promote, research, document, and develop the state’s archaeological heritage. Our effort is to preserve the original historical dignity of historical sites while connecting them with modern facilities, so that tourists, researchers, and students from India and abroad can gain a holistic experience of India’s ancient cultural heritage.
Mr. Agrawal said that Chhattisgarh’s identity isn’t limited to its natural beauty; its archaeological and cultural heritage is also our greatest asset. These heritage sites are being developed through scientific conservation, effective publicity, and public participation.
He said that under the leadership of Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi, extensive work is being done across the country to preserve India’s ancient cultural heritage and give it global recognition. In keeping with this spirit, Chhattisgarh is continuously committed to the preservation of its historical heritage, promotion of cultural pride, and development of heritage tourism.
Mr. Agarwal further stated that history and heritage are the identity and soul of any society. Therefore, it is our responsibility to preserve our archaeological heritage, convey its importance to the next generation, and make it a powerful medium for cultural awareness, research, and tourism development. This will not only preserve our cultural heritage but also boost the local economy, employment, and tourism.
