Efforts on to secure UNESCO World Heritage status for Rakhigarhi: CM
Says ₹500 cr earmarked to develop Harappan site as global landmark
Chief Minister Nayab Singh Saini today said efforts were underway to include Rakhigarhi, one of the largest Harappan sites in the world, in the UNESCO World Heritage list, describing it as a living testament to India’s ancient and glorious civilisation.
Addressing the gathering at the second state-level Rakhigarhi Mahotsav held in Rakhigarhi village, the Chief Minister said the Union Budget has earmarked Rs 500 crore to develop the site into a prestigious global archaeological and tourism landmark.
“Rakhigarhi holds a unique identity as a historical heritage site. This is the land where, thousands of years ago, one of the world’s oldest civilisations — the Harappan civilisation — flourished,” Saini said. He added that artefacts recovered during excavations show the site was a major industrial and commercial hub, marked by a well-planned urban layout, advanced sanitation systems and exceptional water management.
Emphasising its global importance, the Chief Minister said the Indus-Saraswati civilisation centred at Rakhigarhi sends a powerful message to the world about how “deep-rooted, scientific and prosperous India’s heritage has been”. He said it was a matter of immense pride that the most significant centre of one of the world’s most advanced ancient urban civilisations is located in Haryana.
Saini said the state government was taking continuous and concrete steps to ensure Rakhigarhi’s recognition on both the national and international tourism map. He noted that, according to the Archaeological Survey of India, Haryana has around 100 historical and archaeological sites, including Farmana (Rohtak), Mitathal (Bhiwani), Balu (Kaithal) and Banawali (Fatehabad), all of which are being conserved through special development projects.
The Chief Minister announced that all 13 demands submitted by the Rakhigarhi Panchayat would be forwarded to the departments concerned for prompt action, while the five demands of Rakhi Shahpur Panchayat would also be taken up. He also announced a grant of Rs 21 lakh each for Rakhigarhi and Rakhi Shahpur villages and inaugurated the Harappan Knowledge Centre.
Saini said the government was committed to developing Rakhigarhi as an international tourism and research hub, with plans for a world-class archaeological museum, a dedicated research institute, modern tourist facilities and improved infrastructure. He said the initiative would generate employment opportunities for local youth and boost the regional economy.
Referring to excavation findings, the Chief Minister said women in the Harappan era enjoyed respect and equal opportunities. “Today, the daughters of Haryana are carrying forward this legacy by excelling in sports, education, science, administration and the armed forces,” he said, adding that women’s empowerment remains a top priority of the state government.
He said a modern museum costing Rs 22 crore has already been constructed at Rakhigarhi, while the old Tehsil building in Nuh, Loharu Fort and the tomb complex at Tauru have been declared state-protected monuments.
Heritage and Tourism Minister Arvind Sharma said the Rakhigarhi Mahotsav was a historic event, with artists from across the state participating. He said the 7,000-year-old Rakhigarhi civilisation showed the world the foundations of modern urban planning.
