Maharashtra seeks to manage more historic forts, aiming to better preserve sites like Raigad and Pratapgad.

Maharashtra's Minister Ashish Shelar has requested the transfer of management of forts from the Archaeological Survey of India to the state government, aiming to enhance preservation and local involvement. The state, which already manages 62 forts, seeks control over 54 centrally protected sites, including historically significant forts like Raigad and Pratapgad. Shelar argues the state is well-equipped for conservation and has proposed 12 forts for UNESCO World Heritage status.