Chandigarh, Oct. 19 -- Haryana Chief Minister Nayab Singh Saini on Monday announced a grant of Rs 51 lakh for the Rakhigarhi Gram Panchayat and reaffirmed the state government's commitment to developing the historic site as a major heritage tourism destination.

Addressing the inaugural ceremony of the seven-day Rakhigarhi Mahotsav 2026 in Hansi district, organised on the theme 'Mati Se Mahotsav Tak', Saini said the archaeological site represented India's ancient civilisation and offered insights into its urban planning, craftsmanship, agriculture and community life.

He said civil construction of the museum and interpretation centre at Rakhigarhi was almost complete, with the facility being developed to world-class standards in the next phase at an estimated cost of Rs 188 crore.

The CM said Rakhigarhi was among five archaeological sites identified by the Centre for development as iconic sites. Efforts were also underway to secure its inclusion in the UNESCO World Heritage List. An international conference involving scholars and experts from India and abroad is being organised during the festival to discuss archaeological findings and future research opportunities.

Saini said the proposed Saraswati-Sindhu Civilisation Corridor would improve connectivity among important heritage destinations.

Published by HT Digital Content Services with permission from Millennium Post.