Archaeological Excavations by ASI

Archaeological Excavations by ASI: Key Facts and Figures

1. Overview:

   • The Indian Archaeological Survey (ASI) has conducted various archaeological projects across India, detailing excavations and expenditures in a report presented by Union Minister of Culture and Tourism, Gajendra Singh Shekhawat, in Lok Sabha.

2. Excavation Statistics (Last Five Years):

   • Total excavations: 121 projects.
   • Year-wise breakdown of excavations:
     • 2021-22: 24
     • 2022-23: 31
     • 2023-24: 19
     • 2024-25: 22
     • 2025-26: 25

3. Findings:

   • Significant archaeological artifacts discovered include:
     • Structural remains
     • Subterranean relics
     • Terracotta pottery
     • Coins, beads, jewelry, agricultural tools, and bone relics.
   • Artifacts are sent for scientific verification to relevant institutions when necessary.

4. Judicial Context:

   • No court orders have been received in the past five years regarding the continuation or cessation of any archaeological project.

5. Financial Expenditure on Notable Excavation Sites:

   • Bhavnagar, Gujarat (Villages in Vallabhpur Taluka): ₹93,34,443
   • Agroha, Hisar, Haryana: ₹1,26,51,272
   • Dwarka, Gujarat: ₹1,00,54,958
   • Brahmagiri/Haneya, Karnataka: ₹9,34,259
   • Sari Deul Complex, Khurda, Odisha: ₹24,28,505
   • Elephanta Island, Maharashtra: ₹99,17,321
   • Ancient site of Lothal, Gujarat: ₹69,34,479
   • Rakhi Garhi, Hisar, Haryana: ₹2,16,25,300
   • Piprahwa (Ganwariya), Siddharthnagar, Uttar Pradesh: ₹54,35,187
   • Ashoka Inscription, Odisha: ₹34,51,306
   • Prehistoric site, Telangana: ₹20,00,000
   • Remains of an ancient fort, Bihar: ₹17,19,592
   • Residential mounds, Tamil Nadu: ₹27,30,782
   • Kamalapura, Karnataka: ₹3,09,345

6. Significance:

   • The findings contribute to the understanding of India's ancient civilizations, culture, and history, reinforcing the importance of archaeological research supported by government funding.

Conclusion

The ASI's systematic approach to excavations illustrates the commitment to preserving and understanding India's rich heritage through scientific methodologies and judicial compliance. The financial investments in various sites highlight the government's initiative to enhance archaeological studies and findings across the nation.