New Delhi: The Delhi government is set to introduce a unique passport-style booklet for students of Classes 4 to 6, encouraging them to explore the capital’s rich historical and cultural heritage through an interactive learning programme.
The initiative, being developed by the Delhi Tourism and Transport Development Corporation in collaboration with the Education Department, is expected to be rolled out after August 15 and will run for six months.
Under the programme, students will receive a specially designed booklet resembling a travel passport, allowing them to collect stamps from 23 selected heritage sites and museums across Delhi while learning about the city’s history.
Passport-style booklet for young explorers
The booklet will feature a student’s photograph and personal details on the opening page, similar to a real passport.
The remaining pages will contain information about 23 monuments and cultural sites across the capital, along with dedicated spaces where students can collect stamps during their visits.
The list will include forts, tombs, stepwells, ancient structures and museums, including the National Museum.
Officials said the initiative aims to transform heritage education from a classroom exercise into a hands-on learning experience.
Learning history beyond textbooks
The programme is designed to encourage children and their families to visit historical sites during weekends and holidays.
By physically exploring monuments and cultural landmarks, students will gain a deeper understanding of Delhi’s history, architecture and heritage.
Officials believe the initiative will make learning more engaging and memorable by allowing children to connect directly with places that have witnessed centuries of political, cultural and social change.
Most of the selected sites already offer free entry for children in the targeted age group, making participation accessible for families.
Stamps, rewards and prize money
Students visiting any of the listed heritage sites will be able to collect official stamps in their passports after completing their visit.
Dedicated counters or designated personnel are expected to facilitate the stamping process at participating locations.
Children who successfully visit all 23 sites and complete their passport during the six-month campaign will become eligible for recognition and awards from the tourism department.
Officials said students who submit their completed passports to the Central Reservation System office after the campaign concludes will also have a chance to win prize money through a draw of lots.
Schools to play key role
The passports are expected to be distributed through schools with support from the Education Department and School Management Committees.
Authorities hope the initiative will inspire students to spend more time exploring heritage sites with their families while fostering greater awareness about Delhi’s cultural legacy.
The programme also aligns with the government’s broader efforts to promote tourism and heritage conservation in the capital.
Part of wider tourism push
The heritage passport initiative comes amid increased investment in Delhi’s tourism sector.
While presenting the 2026-27 Budget, Chief Minister Rekha Gupta announced an allocation of ₹412 crore for the tourism department, significantly higher than the previous year’s ₹121 crore.
An additional ₹173 crore was earmarked for the art, culture and language department.
The government has also announced plans to improve public convenience facilities at nearly 1,000 locations across the city as part of its tourism development strategy.
Officials believe the heritage passport programme will help nurture curiosity among children while creating a stronger connection between young residents and Delhi’s historical landmarks.
