There are 3685 monuments and archaeological sites and remains including Jain sites declared as of national importance under the care and maintenance of Archaeological Survey of India (ASI).

The Government under Pradhan Mantri Jan Vikas Karyakram (PMJVK)has taken significant initiatives for the preservation of Jain heritage and scholarly research. Two major projects have been sanctioned:

1. Centre for Jain Manuscriptology at Gujarat University.
2. Centre for Jain Studies at Devi Ahilya Vishwavidyalaya (DAVV), Indore.

These projects aim to serve as national-level institutions for conservation, academic research, and promotion of Jainism as a rich religious, cultural, and philosophical tradition.

In addition, the Government is organizing a centenary celebration of Acharya Vidyanand Ji Maharaj, a revered Jain spiritual leader and social reformer. The year-long celebration will feature cultural, literary, educational, and spiritual programmes across the country, aimed at honouring his life, legacy, and message of spiritual wisdom and social reform.

The Gyan Bharatam Mission aims to digitization of one Crore Manuscripts including the Jain heritage. Further, The Centre for Jain Manuscriptology at Gujarat University focuses on digitising ancient Jain manuscripts, while the Centre at DAVV, Indore will offer academic programs, host research, and promote interdisciplinary studies across fields such as philosophy, science, art, and environment rooted in Jain literature.

ASI conducts periodic inspections of the protected monuments and areas to assess the conservation status and requirements. Conservation of the monuments are done as per the need and also considering the availability of resources, following the National Conservation Policy in order to ensure authenticity and integrity of the monuments.

This information was given by Union Minister for Culture and Tourism Shri Gajendra Singh Shekhawat in a written reply in Rajya Sabha today.

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Sunil Kumar Tiwari

pibculture[at]gmail[dot]com

(Release ID: 2150692)