New Delhi: Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL), the National Culture Fund (NCF) and the Archaeological Survey of India (ASI) have signed a Memorandum of Agreement (MoA) to undertake conservation and development works at three prominent heritage sites — Hampi in Karnataka, the Taj Mahal in Agra and Bekal Fort in Kerala.
HAL has accorded in-principle approval for financial support of ₹23.60 crore for the projects over the financial years 2026-27 to 2028-29.
The agreement was signed at Kartavya Bhawan-02 in New Delhi in the presence of Vivek Aggarwal, Secretary, Ministry of Culture. Pradeep Kumar, Executive Director (HR), signed the agreement on behalf of HAL.
The proposed projects aim to preserve the historical sites, improve visitor amenities and promote sustainable heritage tourism.
At Hampi, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, the planned interventions will cover the historic North and South Bazaar areas, with development works extending approximately 270 metres and 250 metres, respectively. Conservation and site-development works at the Taj Mahal and Bekal Fort will be undertaken in consultation with the ASI.
The National Culture Fund will facilitate the implementation of the projects in coordination with HAL and ASI. The works will be carried out under the technical guidance and supervision of the ASI, ensuring compliance with established conservation principles and prescribed norms.
The partnership reflects HAL’s corporate social responsibility commitment and highlights collaboration between public institutions and corporate organisations to protect India’s cultural heritage for future generations.
The agreement also marks a step towards strengthening public-private partnerships in heritage conservation and improving the management of important historical sites.
