India Reclaims Cultural Heritage: 642 Antiquities Returned Under Modi

Indian Minister of Culture, Gajendra Singh Shekhawat, announced the repatriation of 642 antiquities since 2014. India is in talks with several countries for further recoveries. The Antiquities display has been established at Purana Qila, and preventive measures against theft have been enhanced. A 2024 agreement with the US aims to curb smuggling.

Union Minister of Culture Gajendra Singh Shekhawat informed the Rajya Sabha on Thursday that India has successfully repatriated 642 antiquities from various countries since the Modi government came into power in 2014.

During the Question Hour, Shekhawat stated that India is actively negotiating with countries such as Singapore, Australia, Germany, the UK, and the Netherlands to bring back more cultural artifacts.

Highlighting the achievement, Shekhawat compared it to the meager 13 antiquities returned between 1955 and 2014, describing the recent repatriations as a significant national pride. The Archaeological Survey of India has established a special gallery at New Delhi's Purana Qila for their display, and agreements such as the one signed with the USA aim to prevent future smuggling of Indian artifacts.

(With inputs from agencies.)