Archaeological Survey of India (ASI)

What is ASI?

• The Archaeological Survey of India (ASI) is the premier government organization responsible for archaeological research and the protection of India's tangible heritage.

• It operates under the Ministry of Culture, Government of India.

• Founded in 1861 by Sir Alexander Cunningham, ASI's headquarters is located in New Delhi.

Legal Framework

• Post-independence, ASI was established as a statutory body under the Ancient Monuments and Archaeological Sites and Remains Act, 1958 (AMASR Act).

• It is entrusted with the maintenance and preservation of ancient monuments, archaeological sites, and remains of national importance.

• ASI also regulates archaeological activities across India as per the AMASR Act.

• It enforces the Antiquities and Art Treasure Act, 1972, which governs the protection of cultural artifacts.

Responsibilities

• The Central Government has declared 3,679 monuments and sites as nationally important.

• ASI is responsible for protecting and maintaining all these declared monuments and sites.

• The organization employs a diverse and skilled workforce, including:

  • Archaeologists

  • Conservators

  • Epigraphists

  • Architects

  • Scientists

Organizational Structure & Functions

• ASI conducts archaeological research through various specialized units:

  • Circles (regional offices)

  • Museums

  • Excavation Branches

  • Prehistory Branch

  • Epigraphy Branches

  • Science Branch

  • Horticulture Branch

  • Building Survey Project

  • Temple Survey Projects

  • Underwater Archaeology Wing

Recent Controversy: Transfer of Archaeologist K. Amarnath Ramakrishna

• The transfer of archaeologist K. Amarnath Ramakrishna has sparked public scrutiny and controversy.

• Though specific details about the transfer are not included here, such moves often raise questions about:

  • Administrative decisions impacting ongoing research or preservation efforts.

  • Transparency and meritocracy within ASI.

  • Potential political or bureaucratic interference in archaeological work.