Archaeological Survey of India
Full Form of ASI
What is ASI?
The Archaeological Survey of India (ASI) is a premier government agency under the Ministry of Culture, Government of India, responsible for archaeological research, conservation, and preservation of the nation's cultural heritage. Established in 1861 by Alexander Cunningham, it is headquartered in New Delhi and operates through regional circles across the country. ASI manages over 3,600 centrally protected monuments and sites, including UNESCO World Heritage sites like the Taj Mahal, Ajanta Caves, and Qutub Minar. It conducts excavations, maintains ancient structures, and publishes scholarly reports. For Indian students, ASI is a key topic in history, art and culture sections of competitive exams like UPSC Civil Services, State PSCs, and UGC NET. Understanding ASI's role helps in grasping how India safeguards its millennia-old heritage. The organisation also collaborates with international bodies like UNESCO and engages in public outreach through museums and heritage walks.
ASI का फुल फॉर्म
भारतीय पुरातत्व सर्वेक्षण
Example
The ASI recently discovered a 4,000-year-old burial site during a routine excavation in Haryana, shedding new light on the Vedic period.