‘We get the right to conserve the forts of Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj’, Maharashtra government demands from the Center – Maharashtra seeks custody of shivaji forts others to enhance conservation NTC

Maharashtra Cultural Affairs Minister Ashish Shelar has requested Union Culture Minister Gajendra Singh Shekhawat to submit the conservation of historical forts associated with the forts protected by the central government, especially Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj, to the state government. The purpose of this step is to carry forward the conservation and development works of these historical sites more effectively.

A total of 54 are preserved by the Center in Maharashtra and 62 are the forts protected by the state government. These include important forts like Raigad, Rajgarh, Pratapgarh, Panhala, Sindhudurg, Vijayadurga, Suvarnadurga, Salher and Shivneri. These forts used to be important military centers during the time of Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj and have great importance culturally and emotionally for the people of Maharashtra.

Maharashtra government request
Ashish Shelar posted on the social media platform x and said, “The fort of Maharashtra is an immortal symbol of the valor and heritage of Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj. His historical and emotional importance is immense. Hand over to the Maharashtra government so that their protection and tourism development can be improved further. “

Also read: Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj’s memorial to be built in Agra, Maharashtra government will acquire land

Conservation and tourism development scheme
He emphasized the active role of Maharashtra in the protection of his heritage. The Maharashtra government is already playing an important role in conservation of state protected forts. The state government says that its Archaeological and Museum Directorate is fully ready to handle this work.

The Maharashtra government has recently sent a proposal to the International Memorial and Station Council in Paris, demanding 12 historical forts of the Maratha period to be included in the list of UNESCO World Heritage Sites.

The Government of Maharashtra is planning to include inheritance -friendly tourism initiative and to include donors under corporate social responsibility for maintenance of the fort through initiatives like ‘Maha Varsa’ and ‘Vaibhav Sangopan’ schemes. Shelar insisted on the importance of preserving these heritage sites, saying, “These forts keep motivating millions of people. It is our serious duty to preserve them for future generations.” He urged Shekhawat to take prompt action and to start the transfer process to ASI.

Also read: Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj’s memorial to be built in Agra, Maharashtra government will acquire land