The Illicit trafficking of cultural property is a longstanding issue that has affected many cultures and countries throughout history and a large number of antiquities have been smuggled out of the country over the years, and which are now housed in various museums, institutions and private collections across the world.However, in the last 10 years, the Centre had expedited the process to repatriate antiquities, which were illegally taken out of the country, from the different countries including the US, France, Germany, Singapore, Australia and Canada.Since 2014, 345 heritage objects have been brought back and the highest pieces—about 190–were from the US. Only 13 objects could be fetched between 1947 and 2014. Most of these articles were smuggled by the notorious art dealer Subhash Kapoor, who is serving a jail term in Tamil Nadu.Shekhawat mentioned that the subject of repatriation is not merely a moral imperative but also a practical investment in cultural diplomacy and sustainable development.“By returning artefacts to their countries of origin, we nurture cultural stewardship, promote tourism, and stimulate economic growth within local communities. This process empowers nations to leverage their cultural assets for educational enrichment, social cohesion, and economic empowerment, thereby fostering inclusive and sustainable development pathways,” he said.According to the culture ministry, 262 antiquities, which were handed over to India during the visit of the Prime Minister Narendra Modi in June 2023, will soon be brought back. The US authority, last year, offered 1,440 artefacts, which are in possession of its museums or authorities, for repatriation.
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