HAL, NCF, and ASI Sign MoA for Conservation and Development of Heritage Sites

Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL), the National Culture Fund (NCF) and the Archaeological Survey of India (ASI) have signed a Memorandum of Agreement (MoA) to protect and develop three well-known heritage sites. The signing took place at Kartavya Bhawan-02, New Delhi, on 13th October, 2026, in the presence of Vivek Aggarwal, Secretary, Ministry of Culture. Pradeep Kumar, Executive Director (HR), signed on behalf of HAL. Senior officials from all three organisations also attended.

Key Details of the Agreement

Objective of MoA

The agreement aims to conserve and preserve the sites and improve facilities for visitors. It also promotes sustainable heritage tourism so that India’s cultural legacy stays safe for future generations.

Financial Commitment

HAL has given in-principle approval for financial support of ₹23.60 crore. The funds will be used over three financial years, from 2026-27 to 2028-29.

Selected Sites

The work will cover three important monuments:

1. Hampi (Karnataka): A UNESCO World Heritage Site, where work will be done in the historic North and South Bazaar areas. The proposed development stretches about 270 metres and 250 metres respectively.
2. Taj Mahal (Agra, Uttar Pradesh): Approved conservation and site-development works, planned in consultation with ASI.
3. Bekal Fort (Kerala): The same kind of conservation and site-development works.

Institutional Roles

1. HAL: Provides the funding as part of its corporate social responsibility (CSR).
2. NCF: Set up by the Ministry of Culture, it connects the Government with the corporate sector for protecting India’s tangible and intangible heritage. It will help carry out the projects in coordination with HAL and ASI.
3. ASI: Gives technical guidance and supervision so that all work follows established conservation principles and norms.

HAL approves Rs 23.6 crore for conservation of Hampi, Taj Mahal and Bekal Fort

The ₹23.6 crore support will go towards both preserving the monuments and making them better for visitors. At Hampi, the focus is on the old bazaar streets. At the Taj Mahal and Bekal Fort, the work will follow the plans approved with ASI. Since ASI supervises everything, the original character of these sites is expected to remain intact.

How do HAL, NCF, and ASI MoA strengthen public–private partnerships in the heritage sector?

Looking after monuments needs money, expert knowledge and proper coordination. This MoA brings all three together: a public sector company supplies funds, NCF acts as the link between government and industry, and ASI provides expertise. It shows how corporate organisations can share responsibility for heritage protection with government bodies, and it marks an important step in strengthening public–private partnerships in the heritage sector.