Official announcements from the Indian government, news reports

Biden Returns 297 Antiquities to India, Total Recovered Since 2014 Reaches 640

Sep 22, 2024, 03:08 AM

During Prime Minister Narendra Modi's visit to the United States, 297 antiquities that had been smuggled out of India were handed over to him by President Biden in Delaware. This transfer brings the total number of antiquities recovered by India since 2014 to 640, with 578 of these being returned from the US alone. The antiquities span a period of almost 4000 years, showcasing India's rich cultural heritage. This handover is part of ongoing efforts to combat illicit trafficking of cultural properties. Previous visits also secured key returns, including a 12th-century Nataraja statue. In July 2024, India and the US collaborated on similar efforts. PM Modi tweeted, "Deepening cultural connect and strengthening the fight against illicit trafficking of cultural properties. I am extremely grateful to President Biden and the US Government for ensuring the return of 297 invaluable antiquities to India."