Decision came after the PM questioned ASI's rules. Archaeological Survey of India (ASI) has issued order allowing photography within premises of protected monuments and sites.
- The order was issued after Prime Minister Narendra Modi questioned ASI’s rules prohibiting visitors from taking photographs at certain monuments while inaugurating ASI’s new headquarters- Dharohar Bhawan in New Delhi’s Tilak Marg area.
Details of the new order:
- Under the new order, photography will be allowed within premises of Centrally protected monuments maintained and managed by ASI.
- However, photography will remain prohibited near Ajanta Caves, Leh Palace (both housing paintings that can be damaged by camera flash) and mausoleum of Taj Mahal.
- Earlier, historians, academicians and professional photographers were required to take permission from ASI for photography in protected monuments.
Role of ASI:
- ASI administers and manages 3,686 ancient monuments and archaeological sites, and remains of national importance.
