Analyzing the impact of Devolution of Powers on the Cultural Heritage in Pakistan

Abstract

The concept of "culture" refers to everything that embodies the material and spiritual qualities created as a result of historical and social development. Cultural heritage refers to the inheritance of both material objects and immaterial qualities that define a group or culture. These inheritances are passed down through the generations, preserved in this very moment, and then entrusted for the benefit of future generations. Cultural heritage is a means of expressing how society's beliefs, values, understanding, and practices have changed over time and have a significant impact on modern society. Both material and immaterial resources are included in this comprehensive idea.The idea of cultural heritage is not exclusive to any one area or group of people. It is a general idea that embraces all facets of the environment and results from the gradual mingling of individuals and places (Nilson&Thorell, 2018). Thus, it becomes too crucial to understand the worth of the heritage and protecting it becomes the key responsibility of the state as well as all individuals.Pakistan is blessed with an extensive number of historical structures and archaeological sites. The country is responsible for protecting and preserving these historical resources since it is the connection of the nation to the past and will last for many more centuries. The 18^th amendment to the constitution of Pakistan resulted in numerous changes in the entire system where decentralization resulted in the handing over of responsibilities to the provincial levels. The responsibilities of preserving the cultural heritage was handed over to the provinces and since then, all the provinces are engaged in the preservation and promotion of the cultural heritage. Current study provided an overview of the history of cultural heritage preservation and discussed in detail the impact of 18^th amendment on the cultural heritage. The study concluded that the 18^th amendment has proven to be positive in terms of preserving cultural heritage with some limitations.