ix. Recent developments of Architecture
- Under the SVASTIK (Communicating India’s Scientifically Validated Traditional Knowledge to the Society) initiative, CSIR-NIScPR hosted the inaugural meeting of the Indian Architectural Heritage sub-committee in January 2023. The discussions focused on spreading traditional knowledge and scientifically validating architectural practices. Key suggestions included hosting talks, publishing special journal issues, and integrating the knowledge into classroom settings.
- The Indian World Architecture Festival 2022 highlighted eco-designs, emphasizing sustainable architecture for the future.
- To professionalize the field, the Architects Act (1972) was enacted to formalize and regulate the practice of architecture in India.
- The government only conceded to protect the title ‘architect’, which only qualified and registered professionals can use.
- National Education Policy (NEP): NEP’s mission to restructure undergraduate education as a three-year, liberal, broad-based education bodes well for architecture.
- NEP seeks a close connection between education and profession, and directs professional bodies such as the CoA to set standards that education will strive to meet.
- The central government is expected to reintroduce the Ancient Monuments and Archaeological Sites and Remains (AMASR) (Amendment) Bill.
- The AMASR Act was passed by the Parliament in 1958 for the purpose of protection and preservation of archaeological and historical monuments and sites.
- It also provides for the regulation of archaeological excavations and for protection of sculptures, carvings and other such objects.
- The original Act prohibits construction in an area of 100 metres around protected monuments, and the central government can extend this area beyond 100 metres.
- The AMASR (Amendment) Bill passed by the Lok Sabha in 2017 allows the government to take up infrastructure projects within prohibited areas around protected monuments