ASI gets a makeover! Prime Minister Narendra Modi inaugurated ‘Dharohar Bhawan’ – the new headquarters building of the Archaeological Survey of India (ASI) at 24, Tilak Marg,
New Delhi.
About Dharohar Bhawan:
- ASI’s new headquarters building is equipped with state-of-the-art facilities, including energy-efficient lighting and rainwater harvesting.
- It hosts rare portfolios related to Ajanta, Ellora and many sites of archaeological importance.
- It includes Central Archaeological Library with a collection of about 1.5 lakh books and journals.
- It hosts a valuable archaeological treasure trove of India and the World.
- It has a large collection of books on Archaeology, Indology, Epigraphy, Indian culture and its past, etc.
- It houses authentic records related to archaeology, such as ASI reports, diary of Alexander Cunningham (founder of ASI), John Marshall, etc.
- It also has an original collection of religious books and books on cultural heritage of India, such as sacred books on Hindus, Manusmriti, Kautilya’s Athashastra.
About the Archaeological Survey of India (ASI):
- ASI is the premier organization for the archaeological researches and protection of the cultural heritage of the country.
- Its prime objective is to maintain archaeological sites, ancient monuments and remains of national importance.
- It was established in 1861 by Alexander Cunningham.
- ASI regulates all archaeological activities as per the provisions of the Ancient Monuments and Archaeological Sites and Remains Act, 1958.
- It functions under Ministry of Culture.
- It also regulates Antiquities and Art Treasure Act, 1972.
