Cultural heritage must be central to India's economic policy: Minister

Development strategies must not erode the cultural foundations that define Indian citizens and communities, Shekhawat said on Monday at the Kautilya Economic Conclave in Delhi, a key gathering of policymakers and financial experts.

"We must create a model in which development protects heritage, and heritage enriches development," the minister stated during a session titled 'Culture as Capital: From Heritage to Horizons'. He shared the platform with economist N K Singh and Lord Karan Bilimoria, the British-Indian peer and industrialist.

Shekhawat, who also holds the tourism portfolio, highlighted India's cultural heritage as a significant economic growth driver. He underscored the need for modernisation to be coupled with what he termed "civilisational confidence," asserting that policymakers must broaden their understanding of development beyond purely economic metrics.

The remarks reflect a growing policy focus on leveraging India's cultural assets for sustainable economic growth while safeguarding heritage sites and traditions. The conclave brought together senior officials and economists to discuss contemporary economic challenges and policy frameworks affecting South Asia's largest economy.