Vijayawada: The Centre should take special initiatives to secure Unesco World Heritage status for Lepakshi and Gandikota in Andhra Pradesh and allocate dedicated funds for preserving and developing historical and archaeological sites in the state, Amaravati Development Committee chairman and All India Panchayat Parishad national vice-president Dr Jasti Veeranjaneyulu said.
Veeranjaneyulu made the appeal during a meeting with Union tourism and culture minister Gajendra Singh Shekhawat in New Delhi on Thursday. He discussed issues concerning Andhra Pradesh’s heritage and tourism development.
He sought the Centre’s recommendations and support to include Lepakshi and Gandikota in the Unesco world heritage final list. Lepakshi is already on the Unesco tentative list, and he urged the Centre to expedite the process for its final recognition and extend similar support to Gandikota.
He said the state government should immediately prepare and submit the required dossiers with guidance from the Union tourism and culture ministry so that the World Heritage status process could advance this year.
Veeranjaneyulu also sought special funds for conservation and tourism infrastructure, including roads, drinking water, sanitation, information centres, guides, power and transport facilities.
He highlighted the global significance of Amaravati’s ancient sculptures preserved in London museums and called for efforts to showcase their Buddhist and cultural heritage internationally.
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