By Our Reporter
SHILLONG: The Indian National Trust for Arts and Culture Heritage (INTACH), Meghalaya chapter, has welcomed adoption of the Meghalaya Heritage Bill by the State assembly saying “it will pave way for preservation of heritage sites of the State.”
Talking to The Shillong Times here on Tuesday, the INTACH, Meghalaya Chapter convenor AH Scott Lyngdoh said the legislation in its larger context would help preserve biodiversity hotspots, rivers, lakes and wildlife.
It may be mentioned that the 13th Finance Commission has allocated Meghalaya Rs 30 crore for preservation of heritage buildings and monuments.
The Bill seeks to set up a ‘Meghalaya Heritage Authority’ which is mandated to identify historical, cultural and environmental structures or sites for their conservation. For this purpose a special fund would be created by the government.
The power and functions of the authority will be framing regulations for the conservation, protection and administration of heritage sites besides it would also advice the Government on conservation policies relating to heritage sites.
According to Scott Lyngdoh, the Government now must identify the heritage sites in the State and accordingly take action for their preservation.