The INR 500 crore budget allocation is expected to accelerate infrastructure development.
Union Budget 2025-26 allots INR 500 crore to transform Rakhigarhi into a global heritage hub, says Haryana CM Saini.
The Union Budget 2025–26 has brought a major boost for India’s archaeological heritage with an INR 500 crore allocation for the development of Rakhigarhi. Haryana Chief Minister Nayab Singh Saini announced it at the second state-level Rakhigarhi Festival. This initiative reflects a growing emphasis on preserving India’s ancient civilisational landmarks and positioning them as key destinations on the global tourism map.
Rakhigarhi is located in the Hisar district of Haryana. It is a principal site of the Indus-Saraswati (Harappan) civilisation, dating back over 6,000 years. Archaeological evidence from the site shows advanced urban planning, intricate water management systems, and well-organised sanitation, which are clear markers of one of the earliest urban societies in human history.
CM Saini also inaugurated the Harappan Gyan Kendra, a knowledge centre dedicated to spreading awareness about the ancient culture and history embedded in Rakhigarhi. He outlined that the state government is actively working to elevate Rakhigarhi’s profile not just within India but internationally, with efforts underway to secure UNESCO World Heritage status.
The INR 500 crore budget allocation is expected to accelerate infrastructure development, improve preservation efforts, support research, and enhance the overall visitor experience. The funding will also back allied projects such as the expansion of museums, heritage displays, and community facilities that celebrate the region’s archaeological wealth.
Saini highlighted that nearly 100 other historically important sites in Haryana are also being conserved and developed through targeted initiatives, highlighting the state’s rich cultural legacy. He assured that local needs will be addressed, with the Rakhigarhi and Rakhi Shahpur gram panchayats receiving special grants to support village-level development.
With this focused financial support and strategic vision, Rakhigarhi is poised to become a global heritage and tourism hub, celebrating India’s ancient roots while creating new opportunities for education, research, and economic growth.
Source: Times of India
