Bent on exploiting the full tourism potential of the ancient heritage sites of the State, the Directorate of Archaeology, Government of Assam has undertaken a project on protection, preservation and development plus survey and documentation of some selected historical sites under the aegis of the 12th Finance Commission. At the estimated project cost of Rs 2.59 crore, seven selected archaeological sites of the State will see execution of civil works to enhance their tourism prospects. Director of the department, Dr Hemendra Nath Dutta revealed that in view of the tourism sector throwing open myriad possibilities, the department was concentrating on promoting the heritage sites on the world tourism agenda and towards that end, various developmental activities were undertaken at the heritage sites. "The developmental activities undertaken at the heritage sites will not only promote the tourism sector of the State but will also generate cultural awareness amongst the public,' said Dr Dutta. He asserted that cultural awareness was a prime factor to preserve and promote the State's rich treasure troves. Dr Dutta informed that the department has already invited tenders for executing its project at the selected sites. The Aswaklanta Devalaya, one of the most important pilgrim centres of Kamrup district, located at North Guwahati is one of the selected sites. This Devalaya, which finds mention in ancient literature like Yogini Tantra is thronged by the Hindu pilgrims and the number of pilgrims have increased over the years who include the place in their itinerary. "The project will mainly upgrade the infrastructure at the archaeological sites,' said Dr Dutta adding that improvement of the infrastructure at the archaeological sites was key to attract the tourists. The Ambari Archaeological site, the Mahadeosal Archaeological site at Nagaon, the Purana Maibong site at North Cachar, the Burhagohain Than at Dokmoka, Karbi Anglong, the Garh Doul at Tezpur, are the other sites selected for protection and preservation under the project. The Khajuraho of the North East, the Madan Kamdev archaeological site at Baihata Chariali, has also been included in the project.