JAMMU:  Minister for Tourism and Culture, Nawang Rigzin Jora today said that unique cultural heritage of J&K will be preserved and linked with heritage tourism promotion.

Addressing at the inaugural function of 2-day workshop on ‘Heritage and Science’, organized by Centre of Studies in Museocology and Noor-ud-Din Noorani Museum of heritage of Jammu University in collaboration with International Council of Monuments & Science (ICOMs) and State Tourism department in connection with celebration of world heritage week, the Minister said over Rs. 150 crore is being spent for restoration and conservation of Royal Palace Mubarak Mandi, SPS Museum Srinagar, Bahu fort, Hari Parbat fort and other famous heritage sites of the State.

He said that 30 monuments have been declared as protected heritage sites of the state, which would be protected and conserved. He said the Government have submitted a comprehensive project report to the Union Ministry of Culture for conservation of various famous heritage sites and monuments.

He said all the 3 regions of the State have their own distinct identity and cultural heritage which could be protected and showcased as heritage tourism.

Jora said the role of science is very important in preservation and conservation of monuments and heritage sites of cultural and historical significance adding “We should adopt the scientific methods for the purpose”. He underscored the need for introducing Museocology as a subject at the University level so that students could take benefits not only getting the jobs across the global level but also play their role in protection and preservation of the cultural heritage of the State.

The Minister called upon the concerned authorities to package culture in such a way so that it can be dovetailed with the tourism sector for optimizing the results. He said the State receives lakhs of tourists who evince keen interest in oriental cultural preferences, adding that a comprehensive strategy is required to tap the potential.

Vice Chancellor, Prof. Varun Sawhny of Jammu University in his presidential address said that the University is contemplating to introduce Museocology as a subject at the university level. He said the World Heritage week offers an opportunity to raise public awareness concerning the diversity of the world’s heritage. The significance and primary role of science and technology in conservation, and even understanding of cultural heritage cannot be overlooked, Jora added.   

President ICOMs, Dean Academic Jammu University and Director Museology also spoke on the occasion anddwelt on the subject.

Besides Members of Civil Society, teachers from the University and various colleges, students of various educational institutions, the 2-day workshop is also being attended by delegates of universities of Delhi, Calcutta and Hyderabad.

On the occasion the Minister also released a News Letter of ‘Thati’ devoted to the theme ‘Heritage and Science’ published by Centre of Studies in Museology of the University.