As was being envisioned – a number of initiatives have been set in motion in Pakistan – to preserve the nation’s rich heritage.

The leading objective for such a marvelous venture is to attract local and foreign tourists – despite otherwise precarious security milieu.

Specifically, the latest venture is the decision to establish an open air museum at picturesque Chilas to protect thousands of ancient rock carvings which were prima facie facing perils at the Diamir-Bhasha Dam site.

Of-late, the Pak-German Archaeological Mission has documented almost fifty thousand rock engravings and inscriptions.

To this effect, those responsible for preservation of heritage seem to have decided to make 3D replicas of some of the rock carvings to conserve them in the museum for upcoming generations, archaeologists and researchers.

This is just one example of what can be done to promote the rich cultural heritage of a magnificent country – Pakistan.

Pragmatically, we have sites like Taxila, Moenjodaro and Harrappa with many more – which represent some of the world’s oldest civilizations.

Amid such a scenario – we can attract tourists from across the globe to earn enormous foreign exchange. Simultaneously, we have a number of sites of immense significance to diverse religions like Buddhism. Yet, by now – we could not exploit their potential due to lack of essential resources.

Geographical folio as is indexed in the global history gives a cue by mentioning that even smaller countries like Maldives and Sri Lanka are earning billions of dollars by developing religious and other tourism. The Ministry of Culture – is seemingly making endeavors to promote the culture and present a soft image of the country – yet we think that the task cannot be accomplished unless and until the government priorities it.

With this vision – we feel optimistic that the government would provide – requisite resources not only to the related authorities  to implement attractive programmes for the eventual benefit of the country – but also for ensuring an enabling atmosphere – at all the pretty vicinities all-over Pakistan.

Such a step can help make Pakistan – self-reliant and the people affluent – as the preservation of heritage and promotion of tourism has proved to be a steadfast source of foreign exchange influx – and that too with dignity and honor.