Both government, society need to preserve heritage: Omar

Jammu and Kashmir Chief Minister Omar Abdullah Friday said preservation of heritage and historic monuments is a task for which the society and the government are equally responsible.

Chairing the meeting of Mubarak Mandi Jammu Heritage Society here, Omar said ancient monuments and archaeological artifacts are depositories of values and status of a civilisation and these act as agents of vital information and education for the younger generation.

Omar said knowledge about the past makes the society strong and more capable of taking decisions and carrying forward the process of development along with shaping human resource in a better perspective.

He said all the citizens are stakeholders in the preservation and protection of heritage and history, as such this task has to be performed in a national spirit.

Abdullah directed the restoration work by the state tourism department should necessarily be in consonance with heritage norms and as per the specification laid down.

The meeting also discussed restoration of Raja Amar Singh Palace involving Rs.24 crore, Dogra Art Museum, Badi Deodi, Royal Court and Gadvi Khana costing Rs.20 crore, besides Mahal of Raja Ram Singh's Queen involving Rs 9.95 crore.

The Archaeological Survey of India has been entrusted with the restoration work of these ancient monuments.

The meeting discussed the project for restoration of Raja Ram Singh Palace, Darbar Hall and central courtyard, involving Rs.24.92 crore.