The correct answer is: A) Archaeological Survey of India (ASI)
The Archaeological Survey of India (ASI) is a government agency under the Ministry of Culture, Government of India that is responsible for the archaeological heritage of India. It was established in 1861 by Lord Canning, the then Governor-General of India. The ASI is responsible for the excavation, conservation, and preservation of archaeological sites and monuments in India. It also conducts research on Indian archaeology and publishes its findings in the form of reports and monographs.
The ASI has its headquarters in New Delhi and has a network of regional offices and museums across the country. The ASI is headed by the Director-General of Archaeology, who is an Indian Administrative Service (IAS) officer. The ASI has a staff of over 4,000 archaeologists, conservationists, and other technical personnel.
The ASI has been instrumental in the discovery and preservation of many important archaeological sites and monuments in India. Some of the most famous sites that have been excavated by the ASI include the Indus Valley Civilization sites of Harappa and Mohenjo-daro, the Buddhist stupas of Sanchi and Ajanta, and the Hindu temples of Hampi and Khajuraho.
The ASI also maintains a large number of museums across the country. These museums house a collection of artifacts from all over India, including sculptures, paintings, coins, and inscriptions. The ASI also publishes a number of books and journals on Indian archaeology.
The ASI is a premier organization in the field of Indian archaeology. It has made significant contributions to the discovery, preservation, and study of India’s archaeological heritage.
The other options are incorrect because:
- Option B, Department of Archaeology and Museums, Telangana, is a state government agency that is responsible for the archaeological heritage of the state of Telangana.
- Option C, Indian National Trust for Art and Cultural Heritage (INTACH), is a non-governmental organization that is involved in the conservation and preservation of cultural heritage in India.
- Option D, Private trusts and organizations, are also involved in the conservation and preservation of cultural heritage in India, but they do not have the same level of authority as the ASI.