Minister for Finance, Dr Haseeb Drabu and Mr Tassaduq Mufti, Coordinator, J&K Chief Minister’s Grievance today visited the Heritage Exhibition organized by the Department of Archeology, Archives & Museums, J&K Govton the sidelines of the 19th General Assembly of ICOMOS at India Habitat Centre, Lodhi Road here.It is for the first time that ICOMOS (International Council of Monuments and Sites) General Assembly is being held in India. The objective of the event was to provide an opportunity to promote international cooperation for creating a robust ecosystem for heritage conservation.Dr Drabu visited various stalls established by the Department of Archeology, Archives & Museums and expressed satisfaction over showcasing of the heritage and archaeological treasure of the state at the international level through ICOMOS.He said such initiatives would go a long way in rediscovering J&K’s traditional linkages and promoting heritage tourism in the state. “We shall have to take advantage of all the forums to showcase our treasured heritage and ICOMOS is one such credible forum,” he said.Pertinently, Dr Drabu had earlier unveiled the J&K pavilion at the event on 12 December 2017.J&K’s distinct pluralistic heritage and culture was displayed through artefacts, pictures and models at the exhibition.
Documentary films on SPS Museum, Dogra Art Museum, Mubark Mandi Heritage Complex and Cultural Tourism Potential of J&K were also shown during the 3-day exhibition.Other Departments from J&K, who participated in this international event include Tourism and Handlooms and Handicrafts.Director Archives, Archaeology & Museums, M S Zahid briefed the Finance Minister about various activities undertaken by the Department during the international event.He said the Department also participated in the scientific symposium on the themes ‘Heritage as Peace Builder’, ‘Tying and Benefiting’,‘Heritage as Victim’, ‘Heritage and Democracy’ and ‘Documenting India’s Vernacular Heritage’ organized on the sidelines of the event.Earlier, Mr Tassaduq Mufti, Coordinator, J&K Chief Minister’s Grievance Cell also visited the exhibition and appreciated the efforts of the Department of Archeology, Archives & Museums for projecting the State’s rich heritage at the international fora.During the event, renowned heritage professionals from diverse cultural backgrounds including archaeologists, architects, urban planners, engineers, curators, building conservation professionals and art historians shares and exchanged views and ideas on issues of Integrating Heritage and Sustainable Urban Development by Engaging Diverse Communities, Role of Cultural Heritage in Building Peace and Reconciliation, Protecting and Interpreting Cultural Heritage in the Age of Digital Empowerment; Culture-Nature Journey, exploring the Complexities of Human Relationships with Natural and Cultural Places under the overarching theme of 'Heritage and Democracy'.The speakers also stressed upon the need of incorporating heritage related curriculum in schools, colleges and universities besides involving public private partnership and assistance of volunteers in such activities.