In a goodwill gesture after years of repatriation diplomacy, the Netherlands has handed Prime Minister Narendra Modi 11th-century Chola-era Anaimangalam copper plates. The 21 large and three small plates document historical grants tied to Chola King Rajaraja I’s contributions to a Buddhist vihara in Nagappattinam. Notably, they track a linguistic change in administrative customs terminology from “ulgu” to “sunkam,” reflecting shifts during Chola rule. After arrival, the Archaeological Survey of India will examine and secure the artifacts.
Ladakh is modernising its pashmina industry, moving the famed craft from nomadic Changthang pastures toward global supply chains. At a dehairing plant in Leh, raw fibre from goats is processed through multiple stages, aiming to scale quality, efficiency, and market reach while preserving the region’s heritage that has endured for centuries.
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Union Minister Dharmendra Pradhan announced plans to develop Odisha’s Bhima Mandali caves near Sambalpur as a global heritage destination. The site, believed to be between 15,000 and 20,000 years old, will reportedly get world-class facilities to protect its ecological and archaeological value. The initiative also highlights the caves’ historical and mythological significance for international visitors.
Rajasthan’s Shekhawati, known as the world’s largest open-air art gallery, is witnessing the rapid collapse of its fresco-painted havelis. Once owned by merchant families like the Birlas and Dalmias, many structures are deteriorating through neglect and being demolished, threatening cultural heritage and tourism. Experts say immediate government funding and community-led conservation are crucial to stop the loss.
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