ASI plans to establish gift shops to generate interest and promotion of heritage monument

The Archaeological Survey of India (ASI) is planning to establish gift shops in its monuments. It will create an opportunity for the cultural and creative industries to work closely with the monuments. The ASI intends to leverage souvenirs to generate interest and promotion of heritage monuments.

It has released an Expression of Interest on its website to enhance interest and recognition of Indian cultural crafts and heritage leading to their conservation, development, and sustaining the livelihood of the associated artisans and their communities. An entire list of 84 monuments is available on the Expression of Interest.

 

Interested parties are encouraged to imagine exciting offerings using technology and historical techniques that are regionally important and globally relevant. From the use of 3D printing for creating replicas, the inclusion of One District One Product



products, to redeveloping old games of Ancient and Medieval India, this could expand the relevance of souvenirs.  

The ASI has been deliberating the policy for running high-quality souvenir shops at monuments of national importance since such shops intend to provide a visitor, with an experience that the people of India can engage with in order to connect with their heritage. 

Souvenir varieties will range from replicas of highlighted features of the site, like architectural fragments, important sculptures, inclusion of One District One Product, and artifacts of antiquarian value. These shops can serve as a playground for creative ideas where craftspeople, artisans, corporate conglomerates, boutique manufacturers, and startups can participate in manufacturing items that speak directly to the culture of India.