Monuments of National Importance in India
Context:
In the country, there are 3697 ancient monuments, archaeological sites, and remains officially designated as ‘monuments of national importance.’
Relevance:
GS-01 (Culture)
Highlights:
- The categorization of monuments and sites is carried out in accordance with Section 4 of the Ancient Monuments and Archaeological Sites and Remains Act of 1958.
- The process involves the Central Government issuing a notification, expressing its intent to declare any ancient monument that qualifies as of national importance from archaeological, historical, or architectural perspectives.
- A two-month notice is provided, during which the public is invited to share their views or objections.
- Following the stipulated period, and after considering the received views and objections, the Central Government may officially declare the ancient monument as of national importance. This declaration is published in the official gazette through a notification.
- The responsibility of conserving, preserving, and maintaining ancient monuments, archaeological sites, and remains of national importance lies with the Archaeological Survey of India (ASI).
