Indian National Trust for Art and Cultural Heritage (INTACH) is implementing the study project under Namami Gange Programme. The objective of the project is to conduct extensive field investigations and document existing cultural assets on either side of the river Ganga (within a radius of 5Kms, starting from its source, i.e. Gangotri, down to its point of dispersal at Ganga Sagar) and produce a detailed, illustrated report of each 51Districts (Annexure-1) based and district wise GIS Maps on both primary and secondary resources available. These districts have been studied under the aspect of Natural Heritage (NH), Architectural Heritage (AH), and Intangible Cultural Heritage (ICH).
Natural Heritage
Under the aspect of Natural Heritage, elements like sacred ancient trees, great scenery/landscapes, instream and terrestrial fauna, riparian vegetation, Ganga river tributaries, riverine islands, boatmaking and inland navigation, and fish in Ganga river were studied along the stretch.
Architectural Heritage
Architectural Heritage covers the diverse architectural landscape, showcasing multiple architectural features of temples, stupas, tombs, mosques, forts, Ghats, and other ancient/archeological sites along the Ganga River.
Intangible Cultural Heritage
In order to study the immense cultural significance of the Ganga River, the Intangible Cultural Heritage encompasses the cultural diversity and rituals that enrich life along the mother river Ganga. The aspect details the interaction of people through pilgrim processes, rituals, and rites along with the diversified art, crafts, songs, food, and festivals along the river.