THE JHARKHAND STORY NETWORK
London/Ranchi, January 21: A Jharkhand government delegation led by Tourism Minister Sudivya Kumar held high-level meetings with leading heritage and archaeology experts in the United Kingdom to explore global best practices for conserving the state’s ancient megalithic heritage and preparing it for international recognition.
The meetings covered a wide range of issues, including scientific documentation of megalithic sites, structural conservation, landscape management, community participation, and the development of long-term conservation strategies aligned with international best practices.
Special emphasis was placed on preparing a strong and credible framework for nominating Jharkhand’s megalithic heritage to the UNESCO World Heritage List, while ensuring that these culturally significant structures, closely linked to indigenous communities, are preserved inclusively and sensitively.
International Collaboration and Capacity Building
Through these interactions, potential areas of collaboration were identified to leverage international expertise in archaeology, heritage conservation, engineering, and advisory services. The discussions also focused on strengthening institutional capacity within Jharkhand.
Officials said that based on insights and recommendations received during the meetings, the Jharkhand government will develop a clear, practical, and phased roadmap to strengthen conservation efforts at structural, cultural, and educational levels.
Key Institutions and Experts Met
Meetings were held with representatives from leading global organisations, including:
- Museum of London Archaeology (MOLA): Andrew Henderson-Schwartz; Dr Sarah Perry (University College London)
- Wardell Armstrong / SLR Consulting: Dr Rodri Gardner; Dr Lindsay Lloyd-Smith; John Treherne
- Simpson & Brown: Sue Whittle; John Sanders; Tom Adman
- AECOM: Neil McNab
- Wessex Archaeology: Dr Stu Eve; Matt Leivers
- Arup: Ottilie Thornhill, Senior Consultant
Minister Highlights Global Outreach
Speaking on the occasion, Minister Sudivya Kumar said the international dialogues mark a decisive step towards scientifically safeguarding Jharkhand’s rich megalithic heritage and placing it on the global stage, ensuring its preservation for future generations.
He also said that under the leadership of Chief Minister Hemant Soren, the Jharkhand government is committed to the conservation, restoration, and sustainable management of the state’s megalithic heritage. He stressed that the government views this heritage not only as an archaeological asset but also as a living cultural legacy rooted in indigenous traditions, to be protected through scientific methods, community participation, and international cooperation.