The recent return of 297 invaluable antiquities to India marks a significant moment in the preservation of cultural heritage and the fight against illicit trafficking. Prime Minister Narendra Modi recently expressed his gratitude to U.S. President Joe Biden for the return. This gesture is seen as a significant step in the fight against illicit trafficking of cultural properties.
297 Antiquities Returned To India From The U.S.
Preserving heritage and culture: restituting antiquities
The US side has facilitated return of 297 stolen or trafficked antiquities during the visit of PM @narendramodi to US.
PM @narendramodi and @POTUS @JoeBiden witnessed a few antiquities on the sidelines of their… pic.twitter.com/Rj9n3W6xPU
— Randhir Jaiswal (@MEAIndia) September 22, 2024
The artefacts being returned span nearly 4,000 years, dating from 2000 BCE to 1900 CE, and originate from various regions in India, as per the Live Mint reports. The majority of these antiquities are terracotta artefacts from Eastern India. Additionally, the collection includes items made from stone, metal, wood, and ivory, showcasing the rich diversity of India’s cultural heritage.
The Ministry of External Affairs highlighted that since 2016, the U.S. government has facilitated the return of a substantial number of trafficked or stolen antiquities. In total, 578 cultural artefacts have been returned from the U.S. to India. It marks the highest number of returns from any country to India during this period.
Biden And Modi Unite In Cultural Preservation
This return was formalised through a Cultural Property Agreement signed in July 2024 between the U.S. State Department and the Archaeological Survey of India (ASI). This agreement aims to enhance cooperation in protecting cultural heritage and combating the illegal trafficking of antiquities.
During a symbolic handover at their bilateral meeting in Wilmington, Delaware, Modi and Biden showcased a select few pieces from the returned collection, according to Live Mint. This act not only emphasises the importance of cultural heritage but also reflects the commitment of both nations to safeguard it.
The return of the 297 antiquities is more than just a diplomatic gesture. It is also a reaffirmation of the value placed on cultural heritage and the commitment to rectify past injustices. As these artefacts make their way back to India, they will enrich museums and cultural institutions. It will also serve as a testament to the enduring legacy of India’s diverse heritage.
Cover Image Courtesy: Narendra Modi/X
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