Archaeological Survey
Of India
(Negligence)
Overview
ASI- What? & Importance
Improper Functioning
Indian
Heritage
India is blessed with a vast and
rich heritage. One has only to
see the various architectural
marvels and cultural
institutions that dot the
geographical expanse of India
to glimpse the richness of our
heritage.
What is ASI?
The Archaeological Survey of India is
an Indian government agency attached to the Ministry of
Culture.
It is responsible for archaeological research and the
conservation and preservation of cultural monuments in the
country.
It was founded in 1861 by Alexander Cunningham who also
became its first Director-General.
Importance of ASI
The Archaeological Survey of India under the provisions of
AMASR Act, 1998 protects monuments, sites and remains of
national importance.
These monuments and sites are maintained and preserved
through various circles of the ASI spread all over the country.
The circles look after the research on these monuments and
conservation activities.
Neglect of world heritage sites and lack of an updated
conservation policy are some of the main complaints against
the Archaeological Survey of India in a recent CAG report.
The report also says that ASI does not have a database for the
total number of antiquities in its possession and 95% of
artefacts in museums have never been on display.
Since world heritage sites generate maximum revenue for ASI,
they should have more visitor facilities, better conservation and
improved security, the CAG report says.
India has 19 world heritage sites of which three are in Delhi.
However, it has been found that basic measures for security are
missing as are public amenities. Encroachments and
unauthorized constructions are rampant.
Unknown French
Tombs in Pune lie
neglected and are on
the verge of being
reduced to rubble.
A modern structure alongside A Protected Monument
Quila Mubarak
Situated in a congested market
It is not well maintained.
The rent of shooting at Taj
Mahal is 1,00,000 per
day and for other 16
other monuments it is
50,000 per day.
But we should also know
that minimum rate of
shooting in a studio in
Mumbai is 1,50,00.
Revenue is also generated by the entry
fees
Given by foreign tourist and local
tourist.
Conclusion
The motive of this presentation was not only to highlight the
negligence of ASI, but also to highlight the importance of our
cultural heritage and monuments in the beautification and the
economy of our country.
So, on conclusive note I want to say that, we should respect
and protect our national heritage.