Kolkata: Visva-Bharati University has formed a world heritage cell comprising 18 members to maintain, monitor and manage heritage matters related to the World Heritage Site.
In Sep 2023, Santiniketan received the Unesco heritage tag. Sources said this was perhaps the first time that a dedicated cell had been formed for overseeing heritage matters after VB received a communication from ASI and Unesco to form the cell following the plaque row.
The cell will document and preserve all files, maps, correspondences and other records related to the declaration of Santiniketan as a World Heritage Site.An official said: “The cell will be responsible for maintaining the heritage site, implementing the guidelines of Unesco and will also look into tourist management. There are also proposals to start heritage walks and light and sound shows to make tourists aware of the rich culture and heritage.”
The heritage cell will also keep a regular contact with World Heritage Centre, Unesco, ministry of education and culture, ASI, West Bengal Heritage Commission, state govt, district administration and local bodies dealing with conservation and preservation along with maintaining records of different committees related to the World Heritage Site and heritage matters of VB.
A senior official said: “The cell will meet on a regular basis and assist the university authority in speedy disposal of matters assigned to it as a ‘single window’ planning, implementation and facilitation centre.”