Vibha SharmaNew Delhi: Delhi Development Authority (DDA) is set to organize a heritage week from April 13-18, aimed at bringing people closer to nature while raising awareness about lesser-known heritage sites in the city.The event, in association with MyGov India to mark International Day for Monuments and Sites, will see participation from hundreds of students of Delhi govt schools. A series of guided heritage walks and interactive activities have been planned at convenient timings to encourage maximum student participation. MyGov India is a platform that fosters collaboration between citizens and government through technology for national development.“Activities will be held at sites such as Mehrauli Archaeological Park and Sanjay Van, among others, with a focus on engaging young citizens with Delhi’s rich historical landscape,” an official said.Officials said Mehrauli Archaeological Park will host walks, photography competitions, exhibitions and cultural programs. DDA has partnered with Archaeological Survey of India (ASI) for an exhibition and documentation of conservation efforts in Mehrauli. “The event is expected to bring together heritage lovers,” the official said.Spread across 200 acres in south Delhi, adjacent to Qutub Minar, the park has over 100 monuments spanning nearly a millennium. Maintained by DDA, it includes restored structures such as the Jamali Kamali mosque, the Tomb of Balban and Rajon Ki Baoli.Among the recently restored sites is an unnamed monument near Chaumukha Darwaza, which has been transformed into a reading space. The site now offers free access to visitors and features a modest collection of books, along with indoor games like chess and carrom, encouraging families and children to spend time in a heritage setting. A café and a fountain have been added to enhance visitor experience.Through the heritage week, DDA aims to deepen awareness and pride in Delhi’s heritage, promote community participation, and highlight its efforts in conservation and urban ecology. “The larger objective is to inspire people across age groups to value and actively participate in preserving the city’s cultural identity,” an official said.Competitions on student dialogues, sketching, story writing, exhibitions and a cultural program on April 18 will mark the end of the event. The authority has reached out to Delhi govt’s education department to facilitate large-scale student participation, offering materials and logistical support.At Sanjay Van, DDA had hosted events to mark Earth Hour, featuring guided walks, macro photography workshops, butterfly behavior sessions, wildlife tracking, yoga in nature, and exhibitions on birds of prey, last month. “The event saw a huge footfall and we are expecting similar feedback this time also,” said an official.