The Union Minister of State for Culture (Independent Charge), Tourism (Independent Charge), & Civil Aviation, Dr. Mahesh Sharma has assured that the Centre will take all possible steps to expedite the proposal of World Heritage site status for Majuli island located in the Brahmaputra river in Assam. Dr Mahesh Sharma held a meeting with the Union Minister for Water Resources, River Development and Ganga Rejuvenation, Sushri Uma Bharti and Union Minister of State (Independent Charge) for Youth Affairs and Sports, Shri Sarbananda Sonowal in this regard in New on June 12. Dr Mahesh Sharma said that the Ministry of Culture is already working closely with the state of Assam to assist them in finalising the proposal. The state government will be assisted to overcome all roadblocks, he assured.

Sushri Uma Bharti explained the need to conserve the culturally and historically rich island as it is dramatically shrinking in size due to erosion. ASI must carry out a survey of the ancient artefacts at the island to facilitate the proposal for World Heritage site, she added.

Shri Sonowal, who is the MP from the area, explained that the Majuli island is the largest river island in the world and has a population of about two lakhs. He requested Dr Mahesh Sharma to provide tourism infrastructure at Majuli islands like guest house, auditorium and museum.

Dr Mahesh Sharma said that the Tourism Ministry is committed to develop Majuli island as a tourist destination, especially with the help of cruise tourism. The Culture Ministry will extend all help for the proposal of the World Heritage Site.

Secretary Tourism, Dr Lalit Panwar and senior officers of the Culture Ministry were also present at the meeting.