New Delhi, April 7 (IANS): Heritage sites, Indian languages, handicrafts and artisans along with key issues of development and economy find place in the BJP manifesto for the Lok Sabha elections released here Monday.

"We will provide appropriate resources for the maintenance and restoration of all the national heritage sites, and to prevent their vandalisation in any form," the BJP said in its manifesto.

"The digitisation of archives and archaeological and museological records would be initiated. A national mission for beautifying and improving the infrastructure and amenities at pilgrimage centres of all faiths will be launched," it said.

With the English language dominating all spheres, the Indian languages are dying a silent death. Taking a note of this cultural decline, the manifesto said: "The Indian languages are repositories of our rich literature, history, culture, art and scientific achievements."

"Many of our dialects are important source for knowing our heritage. The BJP would promote the Indian languages, and put measures for the development of all the Indian languages, so that they become a powerful vehicle for creating knowledge in the society."

The BJP in its manifesto has also promised to move up the value chain of handicrafts sector, and chalk up various schemes for skills upgradation and enhancement of business opportunities for the artisans.

"Schemes will be drawn for skills upgradation and enhancement of business opportunities for artisans like smiths, weavers, carpenters, hair-dressers, shoe-smiths, and potters," the manifesto said.