Archaeological Survey of India
Also called: ASI · Topic: Studying Indian History: Sources, Dating and Historiography · NCERT: Class 12, Ch 1 "Bricks, Beads and Bones"; Class 12, Ch 4 "Thinkers, Beliefs and Buildings"
Meaning
The Archaeological Survey of India (ASI) is the government department in charge of archaeology and protected monuments. It was set up in 1861 under colonial rule. Alexander Cunningham, called the "father of Indian archaeology", was its first head and its first Director-General. Cunningham mainly used written sources, especially the travel accounts of Chinese Buddhist pilgrims, to find sites. Later heads brought in field methods. The ASI still excavates, conserves and protects sites today.
Example
ASI officers Daya Ram Sahni (Harappa, 1921) and R.D. Banerji (Mohenjodaro, from 1922) found the seals that led Director-General John Marshall to announce a new civilisation in 1924. Marshall also restored the stupa at Sanchi.
Don't confuse with
- Asiatic Society of Bengal: it was a private learned society founded in 1784 for scholarly study. The ASI is a government department that digs and protects sites.
Related concepts
- Alexander Cunningham
- Illustrated London News
- Discovery of the Harappan civilisation
- Ancient Monuments and Archaeological Sites and Remains Act 1958
- National Monuments Authority
- National Mission on Monuments and Antiquities
- Antiquities and Art Treasures Act 1972
- Repatriation of antiquities