Archive · 2 Sep 2026
Karnataka Proposes Foundation to Conserve Monuments and Promote Heritage
Karnataka wants to create a new group called the Karnataka Heritage and Cultural Foundation.
Its job would be to protect old monuments, museums and archaeological sites.
A survey found nearly one lakh such places across the state.
Because there are so many sites, the government wants help with long-term funding.
Companies, people living abroad and the public could donate money.
Donors might choose a particular monument or museum to support.
The foundation would also share Karnataka’s art, stories, buildings and traditions in India and around the world.
It would create activities to help children and young people learn about their heritage outside textbooks.
The Karnataka Tourism Department has proposed the Karnataka Heritage and Cultural Foundation to conserve monuments, archaeological sites, museums and cultural assets.
The proposal was prepared by the Department of Archaeology, Museums and Heritage and will soon be placed before the State Cabinet.
A survey across Karnataka’s 239 taluks identified nearly one lakh historical monuments and archaeological sites.
The foundation would combine government efforts with corporate CSR funding, NRI contributions, global Kannadiga support and public donations.
It would also promote Karnataka’s art, literature, architecture, folk traditions and heritage, while encouraging young people to engage with them directly.
- Who
- The Karnataka Tourism Department and the state government, with Energy and Tourism Minister K J George announcing the proposal.
- What
- A proposal to establish the Karnataka Heritage and Cultural Foundation to conserve and promote Karnataka’s historical and cultural assets.
- When
- The proposal was announced on Tuesday, September 1, and is expected to be placed before the State Cabinet shortly.
- Where
- The initiative covers historical monuments, archaeological sites, museums and cultural assets across Karnataka.
- Why
- A survey identified nearly one lakh heritage sites, prompting the government to seek a sustainable, long-term and transparent funding mechanism while promoting Karnataka’s culture.
- Proposed foundation
- Karnataka Heritage and Cultural Foundation (KHCF)
- Proposing department
- Karnataka Tourism Department
- Proposal prepared by
- Department of Archaeology, Museums and Heritage
- Survey coverage
- 239 taluks across Karnataka
- Heritage identified
- Nearly one lakh historical monuments and archaeological sites
- Potential funding sources
- Corporate CSR contributions, NRI contributions, global Kannadiga support and public donations
- Additional activities
- Promoting art, literature, architecture, folk traditions and cultural heritage in India and internationally
- Accountability
- The proposed system includes transparency in financial management, accounting, auditing and project implementation
