Philadelphia: During Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s visit to the United States on Saturday, 297 antiquities that had been smuggled out of India were handed back to the country. This transfer brings the total number of antiquities recovered by India since 2014 to 640, including 578 that have been returned from the USA alone.
In previous years, PM Modi’s trips to the US have also facilitated the return of numerous artifacts. In 2021, 157 antiquities were handed over, including a bronze Nataraja statue from the 12th century. Following the PM’s 2023 US visit, another 105 antiquities were returned.
India has also successfully recovered artifacts from other countries, including 16 from the UK and 40 from Australia.
In a significant development, in July 2024, India and the United States signed the first ever ‘Cultural Property Agreement’ to prevent the illicit trafficking of antiquities from India.
This achievement is attributed to the government’s efforts to reclaim stolen treasures and preserve cultural heritage. PM Modi’s strong relationships with global leaders have been instrumental in these recoveries. “His proactive approach has led to the recovery of significant artefacts, including revered sculptures and idols, reaffirming India’s cultural identity.”
