Haryana CM to officials: Take steps to develop ancient sites

Tribune News Service

Chandigarh, November 16

Haryana Chief Minister Manohar Lal Khattar on Friday directed the officers concerned to take strategic initiatives to bring ancient heritage sites like Kurukshetra, known for the Mahabharata War; Lohgarh, the first capital of the Sikh empire, and the civilizations that existed even before the Harappan and Mohenjodaro times on the world map.

These directions were given by the CM on the occasion of release of a special cover made by the Department of Archaeology and Museums in association with the Indian Postal Department on Rakhigarhi, the world-famous archaeological site of the Indus Valley Civilisation.

Minister of State for Archaeology and Museums (Independent Charge) Anoop Dhanak was also present on the occasion.

The Chief Minister while wishing the people on Dhanteras and Diwali said that ancient wisdom, culture and history have their own importance. He said that a country or state could be on the path of progress only if its youth were aware of its history and culture.

He said that Haryana had more than 100 sites with historical and religious links and the state should work towards preserving such sites to promote ancient culture for future generations. Besides this, tourism would also be encouraged at these sites.

A museum along with a martial arts school is being established at Lohgarh in Yamunanagar.

Dhanak expressed gratitude to the CM for issuing the special cover. He said that the special cover would further enhance the importance of the archaeological site of Rakhigarhi.

Chief Secretary Vijai Vardhan said that Rakhigarhi had special importance as it was older than Harappa and Mohenjodaro. He said that ancient and invaluable artefacts were found during excavation of the site. Those suggest that the state of Haryana must have been highly developed at that time.

He added that a museum and lecture centre is being set up at Rakhigarhi. He expressed gratitude to the Chief Minister on whose initiative the Saraswati Heritage Board has been set up.