Monuments of National Importance

Source: The post is based on the article “Monuments of National Importance” published in “PIB” on 21st December 2023

Why in the News?

There are 3697 ancient monuments and archaeological sites and remains declared as Monuments of National Importance in India.

What are Monuments of National Importance?

1) Monuments of National Importance (MNI) are declared by the Archaeological Survey of India (ASI).

2) They are declared under section 4 of the Ancient Monuments and Archaeological Sites and Remain Act, 1958.

3) Criteria: As per the ASMR Act, 1958, ancient monuments or archaeological sites and remains which are of historical, archaeological or architectural interest and have been in existence for not less than 100 years may be declared by the Central Government as of national importance.

4) ASI undertakes conservation, preservation and maintenance of MNI throughout the country. In addition, basic amenities and visitor facilities like pathways, signages, visitor benches, facilities for divyangs, etc. are provided at monuments.

5) States with highest sites: Uttar Pradesh (745 monuments/sites), Karnataka (506) and Tamil Nadu (413) have the highest number of ASI-maintained sites.

What is Archaeological Survey of India (ASI)?

1) Archeological Survey of India (ASI) is the premier organisation for archaeological research, scientific analysis and excavation of archaeological sites, conservation and preservation of protected monuments.

2) Founded in: 1861 by Alexander Cunningham. 

3) It functions as an attached office under the Ministry of Culture.

4) Headquarters: New Delhi.

5) It regulates all archaeological activities as per the provisions of the Ancient Monuments and Archaeological Sites and Remains Act, 1958. It also regulates Antiquities and Art Treasure Act, 1972.

UPSC Syllabus: Art and Culture