US Returns 297 Smuggled Antiquities to India During Modi's Visit

During Prime Minister Narendra Modi's visit, the US returned 297 smuggled antiquities to India, highlighting the longstanding issue of cultural property trafficking. Modi thanked President Biden for his support and emphasized the significance of these artefacts to India's heritage. This marks a major achievement in India's efforts to reclaim its historical treasures.

The United States has returned 297 antiquities to India, which were smuggled out of the country, during Prime Minister Narendra Modi's ongoing visit, an official statement revealed on Sunday.

According to official sources, illicit trafficking of cultural property has been a persistent issue globally, significantly impacting India. Modi expressed deep gratitude towards President Biden and the US Government for facilitating the return. He emphasized that these artefacts are not mere historical items but are integral to India's civilisation and consciousness.

With this, India has now recovered a total of 640 ancient items since 2014. The returned items include notable artefacts such as a 10-11th century sandstone 'apsara,' a 15-16th century bronze Jain Tirthankar, and a 3-4th century terracotta vase. This return is notable as it is the highest number of cultural artefacts returned by any country to India.

(With inputs from agencies.)