Few takers for 'Adopt a Monument' concept

Pvt firms show little interest in Rajasthan's monuments

The Rajasthan government's efforts to rope in the private sector for conserving monuments seem to have found few takers. So far only two parties have evinced interest in adopting the state's monuments.

"While the State Bank of Bikaner and Rajasthan has come forward to adopt Hawa Mahal, the Dhirubhai Ambani Trust is looking at adopting Nathdwara," said Anand K Tripathi, assistant director, department of tourism, Rajasthan.

The Rajasthan government has initiated the 'Adopt a Monument' concept inviting private parties to invest funds for conservation of around 250 state-protected monuments.

According to Tripathi, corporate entities were only keen on getting returns on every investment. "This, however, is more of a corporate social responsibility than an investment platform for the private sector. We need to step up our marketing efforts to convince the private parties," he added.

Incidentally, many private parties, both national and global, have been coming forward to invest in the hospitality sector in the state, perhaps eyeing huge returns. "Four Seasons and InterContinental are some of the global hospitality majors that are looking at investing in the state," he added.

The Palace-on-Wheels II, a new luxury train that is being planned by the government will also be in tandem with a private party.

"We are in discussions with the Oberois for partnering with the government in this venture," Tripathi said. The luxury train will have a seating capacity for more than 800 people and is likely to start operations in 2008.

Rajasthan invites corporates to adopt monuments: https://www.business-standard.com/search/storypage_new.php?leftnm=3&leftindx=3&subLeft=1&autono=199810