The Archaeological Survey of India (ASI), under the
Ministry of Culture, is the premier organization for the archaeological
researches and protection of the cultural heritage of the nation.
Maintenance of ancient monuments and archaeological sites and remains of
national importance is the prime concern of the ASI. Besides, it
regulates all archaeological activities in the country as per the
provisions of the Ancient Monuments and Archaeological Sites and Remains
Act, 1958 as amicable under AM & ASR (Amendment & Validation Act 2010). It also regulates Antiquities and Art Treasure Act, 1972.
For the maintenance of ancient monuments and archaeological
sites and remains of national importance, the entire country is divided
into 27 Circles and 4 mini-circles. The organization has a large workforce of trained
archaeologists,conservators,
epigraphists, architects and scientists for conducting archaeological
research projects through its Circles, Museums, Excavation Branches,
Prehistory Branch, Epigraphy Branches, Science Branch, Horticulture
Branch, Building Survey Project, Temple Survey Projects and Underwater
Archaeology Wing.