The Archaeological Survey of India (ASI) began advanced digital mapping of key heritage sites across Jammu and Kashmir using drones, LiDAR and Geographic Information System (GIS) technologies.
The progress marks a digital turn for India’s heritage conservation programme. The aim is to create accurate digital records of historically significant monuments, supporting authorities in planning restoration work and simultaneously improving long-term preservation.
The move is a part of a wider conservation programme that combines traditional restoration with modern geospatial technologies to safeguard some of the significant archaeological landmarks.
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ASI turns to digital technologies for heritage conservation
The ASI has proposed the use of LiDAR mapping, GIS-based documentation and drone surveys for selected protected monuments, including the Group of Temples at Naranag, the Sun Temple at Martand and the Ancient Temple at Buniyar.
These technologies will generate highly detailed digital maps and three-dimensional records of monuments. Officials say the data will help engineers and conservation experts identify structural issues, monitor deterioration and prepare future restoration plans with greater accuracy.
The digital documentation project is also expected to improve disaster preparedness by preserving detailed digital records of heritage structures that are vulnerable to natural ageing and environmental damage.
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₹5.75 crore allocated for conservation and visitor facilities
According to information shared by the Ministry of Culture, Jammu and Kashmir has 56 Centrally Protected Monuments under the care of the ASI.
For the financial year 2025-26, ₹5.75 crore was allocated for conservation and development activities, of which ₹4.97 crore had been utilised by 27 January 2026. Restoration work is underway at several important sites, including Akhnoor Fort, Pratapswamin Temple at Tapper, Avantisvara Temple in Avantipur, Hari Hara Shiva Temple in Billawar, Mughal Arcade at Verinag and Pari Mahal in Srinagar.
Alongside restoration, the ASI is upgrading visitor amenities by improving pathways, installing CCTV surveillance, and providing public facilities at selected monuments.
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Heritage preservation meets digital transformation
Beyond physical conservation, the programme propagates heritage awareness campaigns & community outreach involving schools and local institutions.
Officials believe combining digital mapping with restoration and public engagement will improve monument management while supporting cultural tourism in Jammu and Kashmir.
As governments worldwide increasingly adopt digital twins, GIS mapping and drone-based inspections for cultural assets, ASI’s latest initiative reflects how emerging technologies are becoming an important part of India’s heritage conservation strategy.
Digital mapping is rapidly becoming a foundation stone for heritage management worldwide. As India expands the use of drones, LiDAR and GIS across archaeological sites, the country’s cultural sector is steadily embracing technologies that can preserve history while improving tourism planning and infrastructure.
Samarjit Kaur is a journalist and communications professional covering technology & emerging digital trends. With a focus on clarity and context, she reports on developments shaping industries and governance. When not reporting, she chooses to plug-in and relax on her playlists and plan her next bucket-list trips!
