Chandigarh (Balwinder Singh): Haryana Development and Panchayats Minister Krishan Lal Panwar has called for preserving Rakhigarhi’s archaeological heritage, describing the site as an important part of India’s ancient civilisation and cultural identity.
Addressing an international conference organised as part of the International Rakhigarhi Festival in Rakhigarhi village in Hisar district, Panwar said the archaeological remains offered insights into ancient human life, urban development and cultural traditions.
He welcomed historians, archaeologists, academics, administrative officials and other participants attending the conference in person and through video conferencing. He said such events provided an opportunity for experts to share research and help bring Rakhigarhi’s historical significance to a wider audience.
Panwar also highlighted Haryana’s cultural heritage, including its folk songs, ragini traditions, traditional cuisine and rural lifestyle. He urged young people to pursue education, science, technology and innovation while remaining connected to their cultural roots.
The minister encouraged students to visit historical sites such as Rakhigarhi to understand the past through archaeological evidence alongside what they learn in books.
Haryana Assembly Deputy Speaker Visits Festival
Haryana Assembly Deputy Speaker Krishan Lal Midha also visited the International Rakhigarhi Festival.
During his visit, Midha viewed an exhibition featuring ancient objects recovered from excavations associated with the Harappan civilisation. He also inspected stalls set up by government departments, self-help groups and entrepreneurs.
Speaking to stall operators, Midha highlighted the role of such events in providing local artisans, businesses and self-help groups with opportunities to display and sell their products. He also linked the exhibition of indigenous products to the promotion of locally made goods.
The festival has brought together heritage displays, cultural activities and exhibitions showcasing different products and initiatives.
Haryana Government Plans To Promote Rakhigarhi As Heritage Tourism Destination
Chief Minister Nayab Singh Saini’s Officer on Special Duty, Bharat Bhushan Bharti, said the state government was working to establish Rakhigarhi on the global tourism map.
He said the government was focusing on heritage conservation, infrastructure and tourism development to strengthen the site’s profile as a destination associated with the Harappan civilisation.
According to Bharti, the seven-day International Rakhigarhi Festival aims to bring history, archaeology, art, culture and public participation together on a common platform.
Several other participants, including Haryana Vyapari Kalyan Board chairman Rajesh Thakral, Haryana Warehousing Corporation chairman Ramkishan and archaeologist Dr Kuldeep Agnihotri, also shared their views during the international conference.
Archaeologist Vasant Shinde Highlights Rakhigarhi’s Significance
Dr Vasant Shinde, former vice-chancellor of Deccan College and a prominent archaeologist, praised the festival during a press conference in Rakhigarhi.
Shinde discussed the historical importance of the Saraswati-Indus civilisation and its contribution to the development of urban life, social organisation and cultural traditions.
He also said aspects of Harappan lifestyles and traditions could still be seen in contemporary society.
His remarks added an academic perspective to the festival’s focus on archaeological research and heritage conservation.
The event has placed renewed attention on Rakhigarhi’s historical significance and the efforts to develop the site as a destination for heritage tourism, while bringing together government representatives, researchers and cultural stakeholders.
