SRINAGAR: In a major step towards preserving Ladakh’s archaeological and cultural heritage, the Union Territory administration has declared 23 historically significant sites as “Protected Monuments” under the provisions of the Jammu and Kashmir Ancient Monuments Preservation Act. Announcing the decision, Lieutenant Governor Vinai Kumar Saxena said Ladakh’s ancient monasteries, forts, caves, petroglyphs and rock carvings are invaluable testimonies to the region’s civilisational heritage and cultural identity. “Their preservation is not merely about protecting monuments but about safeguarding the collective memory of our people for future generations. By declaring these sites as Protected Monuments, we are laying a strong institutional foundation for their scientific conservation, documentation and sustainable management,” Saxena said. He added that the initiative reflects the administration’s commitment to preserving Ladakh’s heritage while promoting responsible cultural tourism, academic research and greater public awareness of the region’s historical legacy.