Strategies and Options for Architectural Conservation in the Context of Values , Ethics, Authenticity and Integrity *Jit Kumar Gupta jit.kumar1944@gmail.com Context Planning, designing and construction of buildings, in terms of its footprints, height and volume, have always been evolving, devolving, never static and never finite. The ever changing typology of buildings was led by the materials available, specific needs of human living , available construction technologies, innovations made in the area of the structure; relevance of aesthetics and structural safety. Accordingly, buildings reflect and represent the art ,architecture and culture of the era, and remain unique and distinct to humanity , community and climate of the specific area/ region, in which they were created.Considering the entire context of built environment, preserving and conserving the state of art and unique buildings; have been valued by communities, states and nations and has assumed importance, both locally and globally, for the reason such buildings have been recognized to be valuable resource for bridging the gap & linking past with present. However, enormous increase in human numbers; uncontrolled expansion of the human settlements ; rapid urbanization, unplanned, haphazard and unregulated growth and development are known to adversely impact and pose greatest threat to the valuable heritage. This has led to large volume of valuable built environment lost in the haze of unplanned growth and development. Efforts are now being made to rationalize and redefine the process of development so that these spaces don’t lose their originality, importance, sanctity and inherent values, making cities lose its identity. It needs to understood and appreciated that development within the historic environment is known for its complexity and challenges. Rational development in the areas of historical importance needs expertise and understanding of large number of components which inter-alia includes, historic landscape, geomatics, architectural legislation, evaluating heritage, historic environment constraints and relevant planning conditions, for assessing their potential impact on a project in order to create a balance between heritage and development. Historic structures remain unique and universal resources of humanity and community. Once lost, they cannot be replaced and replicated . If their special qualities are degraded, these can rarely be recaptured.