Students explore Sanganakallu prehistoric site on World Tourism Day

Around 150 students from the history and tourism departments of Smt. Saraladevi Sathishchandra Agarwal Government First Grade College visited the Sanganakallu prehistoric site as part of World Tourism Day celebrations organised in Ballari on Sunday (September 27).

The programme was jointly organised by the district administration, Department of Tourism, the college and the Robert Bruce Foote Sanganakallu Archaeological Museum.

The students learnt about the ancient history of Sanganakallu, Stone Age remains and the natural environment of the site. Sanganakallu is recognised as one of South India’s significant prehistoric sites, with archaeological evidence of Neolithic settlements and associated artefacts.

Following the field visit, a seminar and stage programme was held at the Hongirana auditorium of the Department of Kannada and Culture in Ballari. History professor Shashikanth delivered a special lecture on ‘Digital agenda and artificial intelligence (AI) to reshape tourism’.

He explained how digital technology and AI are transforming the tourism sector and the ways in which emerging technologies could enhance the experience and convenience of tourists.

Department of Kannada and Culture Assistant Director Nagaraj highlighted the role of tourism in promoting cultural exchange and contributing to economic development.

M. Ahiraj of the Robert Bruce Foote Sanganakallu Archaeological Museum said the Sanganakallu prehistoric site had immense significance at the global level. He said the museum in Ballari was an important and distinctive institution established with a focus on prehistoric studies and research.

After the stage programme, the students visited the museum and viewed Neolithic remains and other rare archaeological collections on display. The collections include artefacts ranging from the Palaeolithic to the Iron Age, human and animal remains, plant remains including charred grains from Neolithic and Iron Age levels at Sanganakallu, beads and other objects.

Tourism Officer Srihari Masanur, officials and staff of the Department of Tourism, and faculty members and students of Saraladevi College were present.