Indian National Trust for Art and Cultural Heritage (INTACH)

Recent Update:

The Supreme Court has directed the involvement of the Archaeological Survey of India (ASI) and UNESCO’s Indian National Trust for Art and Cultural Heritage (INTACH) for restoring two heritage buildings in Mysore.

Overview of INTACH

1. What is INTACH?
   • An autonomous non-profit organization dedicated to preserving India’s culture and heritage.
   • Recognized globally as one of the largest heritage organizations, with over 228 chapters across India.
2. Aim:
   • Conserve heritage with the belief that living in harmony with heritage enhances life’s quality.
3. Vision:
   • To lead heritage awareness and conservation efforts in India.
4. Established On:
   • January 27, 1984 under the Societies Registration Act, 1860.
5. Ministry Affiliation:
   • Operates under the Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA).
6. FCRA Authorization:
   • Authorized to receive foreign contributions under Section 6(1) of the Foreign Contribution (Regulation) Act, 1976.

Key Activities and Features

1. Conservation of Unprotected Heritage:
   • Focuses on unprotected architectural heritage that requires attention for preservation.
2. Heritage Listing:
   • Documents Natural Heritage, Built Heritage, Material Heritage (Art), and Living Heritage (Intangible).
   • Criteria for Listing:
     • Historic Significance
     • Historic Integrity
     • Historic Context
   • Till now, INTACH has listed about 54,000 heritage resources in 150 cities/towns.
3. Chapters:
   • Operates through voluntary local chapters, each consisting of approximately 25 members.
4. Awareness Creation:
   • Uses listed heritage data to raise awareness and support efforts to secure legal protection for heritage assets.

Significance of INTACH

• Heritage Preservation: Ensures the protection of India’s rich cultural and architectural heritage.
• Policy Support: Provides valuable resources and advocacy for the conservation of heritage through legal frameworks.
• Community Engagement: Encourages community participation through its voluntary membership model.
• Global Recognition: Operates as an organization of international repute, aligned with UNESCO’s objectives for cultural conservation.

INTACH and Heritage Restoration

In collaboration with ASI, INTACH contributes to:

• Restoration Projects: Scientific and aesthetic restoration of heritage structures.
• Cultural Promotion: Raising awareness about the importance of preserving tangible and intangible heritage.