Help from civil society would preserve heritage: JK Min

Minister of State for Culture Priya Sethi today said the government is working towards the preservation and restoration of old heritage sites in the state and help from civil society could go a long way in conserving the rich heritage.
She said this is for the first time that the government was celebrating World Heritage Week in the state at such a huge level and the efforts would help in making people aware about the heritage sites.
"The present coalition government is committed to reviving the cultural heritage and on the directions of the Chief Minister, Deputy Chief Minister and Minister for Culture focussed attention is being given towards the culture of the state," she said while speaking at the inaugural function of World Heritage Week here today.

The event started with cleanliness drive at famous Diwan Mandir Complex and inauguration of heritage exhibition at Mubarak Mandi Heritage Complex.
Addressing students and members of civil society, Priya said culture is the identity of people and all three regions in the state have unique cultural heritage and added that knowledge of the past is must for moving forward.
She said awareness needs to be raised among the younger generations about their heritage and the present celebrations are a step forward in that direction.

She said all the heritage complexes, buildings, museums, libraries and old forts in the state would be illuminated and tourism, culture, education, urban development and other concerned departments would organise special programs during the week all over the state.

"We have organised a special display of old heritage manuscripts, photos, antiquities and books at Mubarak Mandi, SPS Museum and Ranbir Library and special variety programs, painting competitions, ethnic food presentations, debates and heritage workshops are also being held during the week," she added.
She said the real aim of celebrating the world heritage week is to involve youngsters, as future generations should be made aware of their past.