Daijiworld Media Network – Udupi (SMK/NR)
Pic: Hemanath Padubidri

Udupi, Mar 19: 'India is rich in archeological and heritage sites but Indians are lacking sense of responsibility to save the same,' lamented Venkatesh Machakanura, the commissioner of archeology, museum and heritage department, Bangalore.

Machakanura was addressing a gathering after inaugurating the 'Heritage Club' at Poorna Prajna College here on Tuesday March 18. Tracing the history of various ancient monuments of the country, he informed that the British were the earlier known authorities to make written documents about archeological and heritage sites in India.  

Though there are more than 10,000 heritage sites in India, only a few of those are protected. He advised the heritage club members to spread the knowledge of archeology and heritage to the general public, in order to create awareness amongst them. This will ensure that it is retained for the future generations, he added.
 
The newly inaugurated 'Heritage Club' is the 18th club in the state. Dr Pundikaya Ganapayya Bhat, HOD of history at Dhavala College, Prof Rajmohan, Prof Muralidhar Upadya, Dr Jagadish Shetty and others were present.