Landmark MoU to launch joint excavations, digital documentation, and heritage tourism initiatives across J&K
FIRDOUS AHMAD
SRINAGAR, Oct 31: In a momentous step towards rediscovering and preserving Jammu and Kashmir’s vast cultural and archaeological legacy, the Department of Archives, Archaeology & Museums (DAAM), Government of J&K, on Thursday signed a historic Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the Centre of Central Asian Studies (CCAS), University of Kashmir, Srinagar. The agreement is aimed at advancing archaeological exploration, excavation, scientific documentation, and the sustainable management of cultural heritage across the Union Territory.
The MoU, which marks the beginning of an unprecedented collaboration between a government institution and an academic research body in the region, was signed in the Committee Room of the Vice Chancellor’s office at the University of Kashmir on October 31, 2025.
The signing ceremony witnessed the presence of Prof. Nilofer Khan, Vice Chancellor, University of Kashmir, and Mr. Brij Mohan Sharma (IFS), Principal Secretary to the Government, Department of Culture, J&K, who both lauded the initiative as a milestone in the region’s cultural revival.
The MoU was formally inked by Mr. Kuldeep Krishan Sidha (JKAS), Director, DAAM, and Prof. Naseer Iqbal, Registrar, University of Kashmir. The DAAM delegation included Mr. Mushtaq Ahmad (Deputy Director, DAAM), while the CCAS team was led by Prof. Wahid Nasaru (Director, CCAS), along with Dr. Mohammad Ajmal Shah (Assistant Professor and Director of Excavations), Dr. Mumtaz Ahmad Yatoo, and Dr. Asif Mohi-ud-Din, both Assistant Professors at the Centre.
Joint Excavation at Zehanpora Baramulla
One of the immediate outcomes of this partnership is the launch of a joint excavation project at Zehanpora in Baramulla, scheduled to commence in the first week of November 2025. This will be the first-ever collaborative excavation between a state archaeology department and an academic centre in Jammu and Kashmir’s history. The project aims to scientifically unearth, document, and preserve the region’s ancient cultural footprints, providing new insights into Kashmir’s historical linkages with Central Asia and beyond.
Key Highlights of the Collaboration
Joint Excavations & Scientific Analysis:
The DAAM and CCAS will jointly conduct archaeological excavations, explorations, and material analyses. The retrieved artifacts and cultural materials will be equitably shared between the two institutions for museum exhibitions, research, and educational purposes.
Advanced Research & 3D Documentation:
Under this partnership, CCAS will employ advanced 3D documentation techniques to digitally archive archaeological sites, museum collections, and artifacts. The initiative will result in a comprehensive digital repository, ensuring long-term preservation and accessibility for researchers worldwide.
Boosting Heritage Tourism:
The MoU envisions the establishment of on-site museums and interpretative centres near key tourist destinations, integrating archaeological heritage with tourism development. These sites will not only attract visitors but also strengthen the local economy by promoting heritage-based tourism.
Academic–Government Synergy:
The collaboration symbolizes an effective bridge between academic research and public administration. While DAAM will extend budgetary and administrative support, CCAS will contribute academic expertise, post-graduate student participation, and laboratory facilities for excavation analysis and conservation work.
Global Knowledge Dissemination:
The findings from joint research and excavations will be shared through national and international conferences, academic journals, exhibitions, and curated publications, positioning Jammu and Kashmir as an emerging centre of archaeological and heritage research on the global map.
Leaders Hail the Initiative
Speaking at the ceremony, Prof. Nilofer Khan, Vice Chancellor, University of Kashmir, said that the MoU signifies a “new era of academic-government collaboration” focused on reclaiming the region’s historical identity and promoting cultural scholarship. She emphasized that the University will “extend all institutional support” to make this partnership a model for other states and regions in India.
Principal Secretary Brij Mohan Sharma (IFS) commended both institutions for initiating the agreement, highlighting that such collaborations “not only protect our heritage but also create opportunities for education, employment, and tourism development.”
Director DAAM, Mr. Kuldeep Krishan Sidha, said the department remains committed to “scientifically uncovering and preserving the archaeological treasures of J&K,” ensuring they are accessible to scholars and the public alike.
A Milestone for Cultural Revival
This historic MoU represents a significant stride toward the systematic study of Jammu and Kashmir’s ancient civilizations. It aligns with the government’s broader vision to strengthen cultural institutions, modernize museums, and revive heritage tourism through scientific partnerships and advanced technology.
The DAAM-CCAS collaboration is expected to open new avenues for archaeological innovation, academic excellence, and global cultural exchange, reaffirming Jammu and Kashmir’s status as a cradle of rich historical and artistic traditions that connect South Asia with Central Asia.
