Source-This post on Delisting of lost monument by ASI has been created based on the article “ASI will delist some lost monuments, here’s why ” published in “The Indian Express” on 26 March 2024.
Why in the news?
Archaeological Survey of India (ASI) has decided to declassify 18 monuments from protected status. This is because the national significance of monuments have diminished.
What are Centrally protected Monuments?
The Ancient Monuments and Archaeological Sites and Remains Act (AMASR Act) 1958 regulates the preservation of monuments and archaeological sites of national importance.
It protects monuments and sites that are more than 100 years old. This includes temples, cemeteries, inscriptions, tombs, forts, palaces, step-wells, rock-cut caves, and even objects like cannons and mile pillars (“kos minars”) that may be of historical significance.
What does the “delisting” of monuments mean?
It refers to the removal of certain specific monuments and archaeological sites from the list of protected sites maintained by the Archaeological Survey of India (ASI).
Impact of delisting–
1) When a monument is delisted, it will not fall under the purview of the ASI for conservation, protection, and maintenance.
2) The monument will not receive special attention or protection from the ASI.
3) Construction-related activities that were previously restricted around the protected site can now be carried out.
What is the process of delisting?
1) Gazette notification-It involves a decision by the Central Government, which issues a gazette notification declaring that the monument has ceased to be of national importance.
2) Public feedback– A gazette notification invites public objections or suggestions within 2 months regarding the delisting of these monuments.
About Archaeological Survey of India
| Aspect | Details |
| Description | It is a premier organization for the archaeological researches and protection of the cultural heritage of the nation. |
| Year of establishment | 1861 by Alexander Cunningham. He was the first Director-General of ASI. |
| Concerned ministry | Ministry of Culture |
| Functions | 1) It is custodian of all Centrally Protected Monuments (CPM) in India. 2) It maintains ancient monuments, archaeological sites and remains of national importance. 3) It regulates all archaeological activities in the country as per the provisions of the- a) Ancient Monuments and Archaeological Sites and Remains Act, 1958. b) Antiquities and Art Treasure Act, 1972. c) Ancient Monuments and Archaeological Sites and Remains (AMASR) (Amendment) Act, 2010 |
| Conservation measures in foreign countries | 1) Bamiyan Buddhas in Afghanistan 2) Ta Prohm and Preah Vihear temples in Cambodia 3) My Son Group of Temples in Vietnam 4) Friday Mosque in Maldives |
Note-India has a total of 3,693 Centrally Protected Monuments or Sites.
Uttar Pradesh having the largest number in the country at 743, followed by Tamil Nadu which has 412.
Untraceable monument-It means that the physical location of the monument cannot be determined or verified.
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