India has expressed its readiness to collaborate with Thailand on archaeological conservation projects, says the Archaeological Survey of India (ASI).
During a familiarisation visit to India organised by the Ministry of External Affairs, ASI officials outlined the organisation’s mission to conserve and restore archaeological sites both domestically and internationally.
The programme, attended by a delegation of Southeast Asian journalists, aimed to showcase India’s advancements in research, technology, and innovation while fostering stronger partnerships with Southeast Asian nations across various sectors.
Janhwij Sharma, ASI’s Additional Director-General for Conservation and World Heritage, affirmed India’s enthusiasm to work with Thailand in preserving the country’s archaeological sites, noting the agency was awaiting a formal proposal from the relevant Thai authorities.
Mr Sharma praised Thailand’s rich archaeological heritage and reiterated India’s readiness to assist, adding the ASI is already engaged in several heritage conservation projects across Southeast Asia.
Currently, the organisation is active in eight countries — five of which are in the region: Cambodia, Laos, Vietnam, Myanmar, and Indonesia.
Among its projects are the conservation of Ta Prohm and Preah Vihear temples in Cambodia, Vat Phou in Laos, My Son Sanctuary in Vietnam, and Ananda Temple along with other damaged pagodas in Myanmar.
A new conservation effort is also set to begin soon at Prambanan Temple in Indonesia.
Mr Sharma encouraged Thailand to submit a proposal through Project Mausam, a cultural initiative supporting joint research, knowledge exchange, and collaborative preservation projects.
Launched in 2014 during the 38th Session of the World Heritage Committee in Doha, Project Mausam seeks to strengthen historical and cultural linkages among Indian ocean nations, observers say.