Mysore/Mysuru: Maintaining that discovery of antiquities is the responsibility of everyone, Heritage Commissioner A. Devaraj said that their conservation too is equally important.

He was speaking at the discussion on the topic ‘ The Importance of Rejuvenation of Antiquities’ organised as part of Skal India Conference at Silent Shores Resort in the city outskirts yesterday.

Pointing out that several rare antiquities, sculptures, inscriptions etc., have been found during an exploration conducted by the Department of Archaeology, Museums and Heritage, Devaraj said that it is important to conserve these rare antiquities for future generations.

“The exploration was carried out in 5,000 villages of 38 taluks in the State in the past 3 years, during which 20,000 antiquities and inscriptions were found. This exploration will also be carried out in the rest of the taluks. The villagers and urban residents should inform the Department in case they find any antiquities. Co-operation of citizens is vital in the discovery of inscriptions and other antiquities,” he said.

Highlighting the measures taken by the Government for exploration of antiquities under ‘Samrakshana’ initiative,  Devaraj called upon Industries, Organisations etc., for joining hands in conservation and maintenance of antiquities and inscriptions.

Noting that tourism will develop if every memorial turns into a tourist attraction, he appealed Skal India for its support for boosting tourism, which has the potential for enormous                                   job creation.

Retired Professor of Ancient History and Archaeology Prof. N.S. Rangaraju, International Tourism Expert Stephen Broos, Dr. Dharmaprasad, B.S. Prashanth, Skal India office-bearers and others were present.