Chandigarh, October 22:- Haryana Cooperation, Archaeology, Tourism and Museums Minister Dr Arvind Sharma said that significant steps are being taken to give the historic archaeological site of Rakhigarhi, one of the major sites of Harappan civilisation, global recognition. The work on a modern museum complex at Rakhigarhi will be completed soon, and ₹180 crore has been approved for the remaining work. The project will give a new dimension to Rakhigarhi’s historical heritage and help develop the site into a major centre for archaeological research, cultural activities and tourism.
Dr Arvind Sharma, Minister for Archaeology, Tourism and Museums, was addressing an international conference organised as part of the Rakhigarhi Festival. He said Rakhigarhi is an important symbol of India’s ancient civilisation, scientific thinking, advanced urban planning and rich cultural traditions. The government is making continuous efforts to preserve its historical heritage, present archaeological findings effectively and enhance its recognition in India and abroad.
Modern Museum to Showcase Glorious Heritage
The Minister for Tourism, Archaeology and Museums said the modern museum complex, being developed at a cost of ₹180 crore, would prove to be a milestone in Rakhigarhi’s development. An auditorium will also be constructed alongside it to promote historical, educational and cultural activities. The modern museum will help present archaeological remains discovered at the site and information related to the ancient civilisation in an organised and effective manner.
He said the museum would serve as an educational centre for students, researchers, historians and tourists. It would provide visitors an opportunity to gain a closer understanding of the lifestyle, social systems, craftsmanship, agriculture, residential structures and urban planning of the Harappan civilisation. Keeping tourists’ needs in mind, construction of a rest house at Rakhigarhi has also been completed.
Archaeological Discoveries Reveal the Development of Ancient Civilisation
Dr Arvind Sharma said excavations at Rakhigarhi had revealed important evidence of the developed lifestyle and organised social structure of ancient society. The archaeological remains found here play a significant role in understanding Indian history and studying the development of ancient civilisations.
He said preserving this heritage was not limited to protecting historical monuments; it was also a way to connect future generations with their culture and traditions. The modern museum complex would enable these important discoveries to be presented more effectively and give Rakhigarhi a new identity at the national and international levels.
Tourism Growth to Create Employment Opportunities for Local People
The Minister for Archaeology, Tourism and Museums said that expanding basic facilities and promoting tourism at Rakhigarhi would also strengthen the local economy. An increase in tourist numbers could create new opportunities for local people in employment, self-employment, handicrafts and other economic activities. The museum and auditorium would also offer greater scope for hosting educational conferences, cultural programmes and archaeological activities at national and international levels.
He said that connecting important historical sites such as Rakhigarhi with modern facilities could help present Haryana’s cultural heritage effectively on the global stage. The government aims to preserve heritage, promote tourism and accelerate local development.
On the occasion, CDLU Vice-Chancellor Prof. Vijay Kumar, Padma Shri Dr R.S. Bisht, Deputy Director Dr Narendra Parmar, Dr Amarinder Nath, Dr Garima Singh and other archaeologists shared detailed insights into the rich culture of the Harappan period.
