<h4>Recent Initiatives for IVC Sites</h4><p>The Government of India has undertaken several key initiatives to preserve, promote, and develop significant sites of the <strong>Indus Valley Civilization (IVC)</strong>. These efforts aim to highlight India's rich ancient heritage and boost cultural tourism.</p><h4>National Maritime Heritage Complex (NMHC) at Lothal</h4><p>The <strong>National Maritime Heritage Complex (NMHC)</strong> is a significant project being developed at <strong>Lothal</strong>, a prominent site of the <strong>Indus Valley Civilization (IVC)</strong>.</p><p>This initiative falls under the <strong>Sagarmala Programme</strong> and is spearheaded by the <strong>Ministry of Ports, Shipping, and Waterways (MoPSW)</strong>.</p><div class='info-box'><p><strong>Lothal</strong> is an ancient port city of the <strong>IVC</strong>, located in <strong>Gujarat</strong>. It is renowned for its dockyard, which is considered one of the oldest in the world.</p></div><p>The complex is designed to be a world-class facility, aiming to celebrate and showcase <strong>India’s rich maritime history and heritage</strong> from ancient to modern times.</p><div class='key-point-box'><p><strong>Key Components of NMHC:</strong><ul><li>A dedicated <strong>maritime museum</strong></li><li>Various <strong>theme parks</strong> depicting maritime journeys</li><li>A specialized <strong>research institute</strong></li><li>Other facilities to enhance visitor experience and learning.</li></ul></p></div><p>Its primary objective is to attract both domestic and international tourists, thereby boosting cultural tourism and promoting awareness about India's naval legacy.</p><h4>Dholavira: UNESCO World Heritage Site</h4><p>In a landmark recognition, <strong>Dholavira</strong>, another significant <strong>Indus Valley Civilization (IVC)</strong> city, was inscribed on <strong>UNESCO’s World Heritage List</strong>.</p><p>This prestigious status was granted in <strong>July 2021</strong>, marking <strong>Dholavira</strong> as <strong>India’s 40th World Heritage Site</strong>.</p><div class='info-box'><p><strong>Dholavira</strong> is located in the <strong>Kutch district of Gujarat</strong>. It is known for its unique water management system, multi-layered fortifications, and large open spaces for public ceremonies.</p></div><p>The inclusion of <strong>Dholavira</strong> highlights its outstanding universal value, particularly its well-preserved urban planning and architectural remains.</p><div class='exam-tip-box'><p><strong>UPSC Insight:</strong> Questions on <strong>UNESCO World Heritage Sites</strong> are common in <strong>Prelims (Culture, Geography)</strong> and <strong>Mains (GS I - Indian Heritage and Culture)</strong>. Knowing the year and significance of such additions is crucial.</p></div><h4>Rakhigarhi: Development as an Iconic Site</h4><p>The <strong>Union Budget (2020-21)</strong> proposed a significant initiative for <strong>Rakhigarhi</strong>, one of the largest <strong>Indus Valley Civilization (IVC)</strong> sites.</p><p>It was announced that <strong>Rakhigarhi</strong> would be developed as an <strong>Iconic Site</strong>, emphasizing its historical and archaeological importance.</p><div class='info-box'><p><strong>Rakhigarhi</strong> is situated in the <strong>Hisar district of Haryana</strong>. It is considered one of the largest and oldest <strong>IVC</strong> sites, offering critical insights into the civilization's expanse and development.</p></div><p>The development as an <strong>Iconic Site</strong> typically involves enhanced infrastructure, better preservation efforts, and facilities to attract researchers and tourists.</p><div class='key-point-box'><p>The initiative aims to boost archaeological research, promote cultural tourism, and educate the public about India's ancient past through <strong>Rakhigarhi's</strong> extensive remains.</p></div>