In a significant development during Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s recent visit to the United States, India has successfully recovered 297 antiquities that had been illicitly trafficked out of the country. This handover marks a vital step in India’s ongoing Cultural Property Efforts to reclaim its cultural heritage, bringing the total number of antiquities returned to India since 2014 to 640.
Notably, the latest return elevates the number of antiquities recovered from the US alone to 578. This achievement is part of a broader strategy that has seen previous fruitful exchanges during Modi’s earlier visits. In 2021, the US government returned 157 antiquities, including a remarkable bronze Nataraja statue from the 12th century CE. Additionally, shortly after Modi’s visit in 2023, another 105 artifacts were handed back to India.
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The momentum of these recoveries extends beyond American borders, with 16 artifacts returned from the UK and 40 from Australia, among others. In stark contrast, only one artifact was repatriated to India from 2004 to 2013, highlighting a significant shift in international cooperation on this issue.
Moreover, in July 2024, India and the United States took a landmark step by signing the first-ever Cultural Property Agreement during the 46th World Heritage Committee meeting in New Delhi. This agreement aims to prevent and curb the illicit trafficking of antiquities from India to the U.S.
The recent successes underscore the Indian government’s dedication to reclaiming stolen treasures and preserving the country’s rich cultural heritage for future generations. PM Modi’s strong diplomatic relationships with global leaders have been instrumental in these efforts, showcasing his proactive approach to safeguarding India’s cultural identity. As the international community increasingly recognizes the importance of protecting cultural property, India’s achievements serve as a beacon of hope in the fight against the illicit trade of antiquities.
