Islamabad: The Standing Committee on National Heritage and Culture has acknowledged the Ministry’s efforts in repatriating 1,252 archaeological artefacts from various countries, while urging the Ministry to present a detailed account of existing preventive and authentication mechanisms for antiquities in the next session. The committee also stressed the need for technical inspection and transparent fund usage in conservation projects and endorsed a new initiative to offer voluntary academic guidance to CSS aspirants at the National Library of Pakistan.

According to National Assembly of Pakistan, the ninth meeting of the Standing Committee on National Heritage and Culture, chaired by Ms. Syeda Nosheen Iftikhar, was held at the Parliament House. The Ministry reported successful repatriation efforts with artefacts returned from the United States, Australia, Italy, and others over the past year. The Committee highlighted concerns about illicit activities related to artefacts and called for a comprehensive report on preventive measures and technical capacities in the next meeting.

The Ministry also informed the Committee of Pakistan’s participation in international conventions aimed at protecting cultural heritage, noting financial assistance received for preservation projects at heritage sites like Moenjodaro and Makli, and for conservation efforts at Takht-i-Bahi and Sahr-i-Bahlol. The Committee urged stringent technical oversight and transparent fund management for such initiatives.

Additionally, the Committee supported the Ministry’s plan to provide academic guidance to CSS aspirants at the National Library, emphasizing that the initiative should adhere to the Library’s mandate and resources. The meeting was attended by several Members of the Committee, alongside the Federal Minister for National Heritage and Culture and senior Ministry officials.