Lok Sabha Debates
Regarding Development Of An Archaeological Site At Sitagarha In Hazaribagh ... on 15 December, 2021
Seventeenth Loksabha an> Title: Regarding development of an archaeological site at Sitagarha in Hazaribagh -laid.
SHRI JAYANT SINHA (HAZARIBAGH): For the past 6 months, the ASI has been excavating a Pala-era monastery-cum-shrine in Sitagarha, Hazaribagh. The Pala dynasty had established a thriving network of Buddhist monasteries. The discovery of a Pala-era monastery in Sitagarha, and its proximity to both Bodhgaya and Nalanda, directly places it in the geographical domain of the Pala dynasty. It is believed by historians that finding an ancient monastery in pristine condition in the 21st century is exceedingly rare; and such a large discovery happens once in a few decades.
The archaeological site at Sitagarha is globally significant, and could potentially be a large, well-developed monastery or shrine. Owing to the alleged past negligence of the state government of this historic site has led to an instance of theft, I request the Ministry of Culture to acquire this land from the state government and catalogue all discoveries to ensure the security of these priceless items. Further, I request the Ministry that top archaeologists and historians be assigned to this site, and create a master-plan for future excavations that can provide employment to the local population. The development of this site under the Ministry will encourage tourism in Hazaribagh and create an extraordinary legacy for the future generations.