Centre allocates Rs 500 crore to develop Rakigarhi as global heritage landmark
Babushahi Bureau
Chandigarh, December 26, 2025: Haryana Chief Minister Nayab Singh Saini on Thursday said that the Central Government has allocated ₹500 crore in the Union Budget to develop Rakhigarhi, a symbol of India’s ancient and glorious civilization, into a prestigious global landmark. Emphasising its immense historical, cultural and tourism significance, he said the state government is taking continuous and concrete steps to firmly place Rakhigarhi on the national and international tourism map.
The Chief Minister was addressing a gathering at the second state-level Rakhigarhi Mahotsav held at Rakhigarhi. On the occasion, he announced that all 13 demands of the Rakhigarhi Panchayat and five demands of the Rakhi Shahpur Panchayat would be forwarded to the concerned departments for prompt action.
He also announced a grant of ₹21 lakh each for Rakhigarhi and Rakhi Shahpur villages and inaugurated the Harappan Knowledge Centre.
Calling Rakhigarhi a site of unique historical identity, CM Saini said it was here that one of the world’s oldest civilizations—the Harappan or Indus-Saraswati civilization—flourished thousands of years ago. Excavations reveal that Rakhigarhi was a major industrial and commercial centre with a well-planned city layout, advanced sanitation and efficient water management systems.
He said it reflects how deep-rooted, scientific and prosperous India’s ancient heritage was, adding that it is a matter of immense pride that such a globally significant site is located in Haryana.
The Chief Minister said that under the leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, India is confidently moving forward while taking pride in its cultural heritage. Developments at sites such as Kashi Vishwanath Dham, Mahakal Lok, the Shri Ram Temple in Ayodhya, and archaeological treasures like Rakhigarhi reflect a new India that draws inspiration from its past to build a prosperous future.
Rakhigarhi to Be Developed as International Tourism and Research Hub
CM Saini said the state government is fully committed to developing Rakhigarhi as an international tourism and research centre. A world-class archaeological museum, dedicated research institute, modern tourist facilities and strong infrastructure are being developed to provide visitors with a deeper understanding of India’s ancient civilization. These initiatives are also expected to generate employment for local youth and boost the regional economy.
Highlighting social aspects revealed through excavations, the Chief Minister said ancient Rakhigarhi society accorded respect and equal opportunities to women. He said today’s daughters of Haryana are carrying forward this legacy by excelling in sports, education, science, administration and the armed forces. He reiterated that women’s empowerment remains a top priority for the state government.
Efforts to Get UNESCO World Heritage Status
CM Saini said Haryana has around 100 archaeological and historical sites, including Farmana, Mitathal, Balu and Banawali. Special conservation and development projects are underway for all such sites, including Rakhigarhi, and efforts are being made to include Rakhigarhi in the UNESCO World Heritage List.
He added that a modern museum worth ₹22 crore has already been constructed at Rakhigarhi. Several heritage structures, including the old Tehsil building in Nuh, Loharu Fort and the tomb complex in Tauru, have been declared state-protected monuments, while a state-of-the-art archaeological museum is being developed in Panchkula.
Rakhigarhi Showed the World the Path to Urban Planning: Dr Arvind Sharma
Heritage and Tourism Minister Dr Arvind Sharma said the approximately 7,000-year-old Rakhigarhi civilization demonstrated the principles of modern urban planning to the world. He also highlighted recent farmer-friendly decisions of the state government and informed that special programmes are being organised on Veer Bal Diwas to inspire future generations.
Haryana Progressing Rapidly: Ranbir Gangwa
Public Works Minister Ranbir Gangwa thanked the Chief Minister for fulfilling the long-pending demand of granting district status to Hansi. He said Haryana is progressing steadily under CM Saini’s leadership and expressed confidence that Prime Minister Modi’s vision of a developed India by 2047 would be achieved ahead of schedule.
Rakhigarhi Represents India’s Living Civilization: Dr Amit Agrawal
In his welcome address, Dr Amit Agrawal, Commissioner and Secretary, Heritage and Tourism Department, said Rakhigarhi is not just an archaeological site but a living testimony to India’s continuous civilization. He said the Rakhigarhi Mahotsav plays a vital role in connecting this rich heritage with the public through cultural programmes, exhibitions and academic discussions.
Several MLAs, former ministers, senior officials and dignitaries were present on the occasion.