Why in News?
The Union Territory of Ladakh has officially notified 23 heritage sites, archaeological sites, and heritage assets as Protected Monuments, aiming to safeguard them from unauthorized alterations and encroachment.
Key Points
The sites are spread across Leh, Sham, Nubra, Zanskar, and Kargil, and include a mix of ancient rock art, forts, and religious structures.
Petroglyph complexes (ancient rock carvings) at Sharnos, Domkhar, Lehdo, Alchi, Murgi, and Mangmore are included to preserve cultural traditions.
Fortifications like Tingmosgang Fort, Sumoor Fort, and Dechen Tsomo Khar Fort represent historic defense structures.
Buddhist heritage includes the Maitreya Buddha Rock Carving at Shey, Saspol caves, Stongday Gonpa, and sculptures like Rigsum Gonbo and Chamba Karpo.
A historic rock inscription at Yourbaltak in Kargil is also part of the list.
Exam Connect
J&K Ancient Monuments Preservation Act, 1920 → Provides legal protection to monuments in the UT of Ladakh
Ladakh → Formed on October 31, 2019 under the J&K Reorganisation Act, 2019; largest UT by area