Open Network for Digital Commerce (ONDC)

Source: NIE Subject:  Government Scheme Context: Online ticket booking for 170+ centrally protected monuments and museums has been enabled by the Archaeological Survey of India (ASI) on the Open Network for Digital Commerce (ONDC) platform. About Open Network for Digital Commerce (ONDC): What it is? ONDC is an open, interoperable digital network that enables buying …

Empanel Heritage Conservation Architects

Context: The Ministry of Culture has initiated a process to empanel heritage conservation architects for the upkeep, conservation, and restoration of ASI-protected monuments. About Empanel Heritage Conservation Architects: What it is? A heritage (conservation) architect is a specialised professional trained in the restoration, conservation, and management of historic structures, ensuring preservation of architectural integrity, materials, …

Sarnath

Source:  IE Context: India has officially nominated Sarnath for the UNESCO World Heritage List (2025-26 cycle), potentially ending its 27-year wait on the tentative list. The ASI will also install a new plaque crediting Babu Jagat Singh (1787-88) for bringing Sarnath’s archaeological importance to light, correcting earlier attribution to the British. About Sarnath: What is …

Archaeological Survey of India (ASI)

Source:  TH Context: The Archaeological Survey of India (ASI) has come under criticism over its handling of the Keeladi excavations in Tamil Nadu and the controversial transfer of archaeologist K. Amarnath Ramakrishna. About Archaeological Survey of India (ASI) What it is The Archaeological Survey of India (ASI) is the apex government body responsible for archaeological …

Archaeological Survey of India

Source:  NIE Context: The Archaeological Survey of India (ASI) plans to expand its Underwater Archaeology Wing (UAW) after its revival, to explore submerged cultural sites in states like Maharashtra. About Archaeological Survey of India (ASI): What it is? ASI is the premier government agency responsible for archaeological research, protection, preservation, and conservation of India’s cultural …

Archaeological Survey of India

Facts for Prelims (FFP)   Source: IE  Context: The Archaeological Survey of India (ASI) has decided to delist 18 centrally protected monuments due to their assessed lack of national importance. This is the first large-scale delisting exercise in decades, reducing ASI’s purview from 3,693 to 3,675 monuments. These monuments, including landmarks like the medieval highway …