Underwater Cultural Heritage Exploration and Research in India

Why in news

The Archaeological Survey of India (ASI) and other government and research bodies are actively engaged in underwater exploration and excavation activities at various historical sites across India, including Dwarka, Bet Dwarka, Mahabalipuram, Karaikal, and Poompuhar. Budgetary allocations and licenses for these activities have been provided.

Exam relevance

GS1, GS3 · History & Culture, Science & Technology, Governance · Prelims · Mains

Key facts

1. Underwater exploration and research are being conducted by the Underwater Archaeology Wing of the Archaeological Survey of India (ASI).
2. Key sites for these activities include Dwarka and Bet Dwarka (Gujarat), Mahabalipuram (Tamil Nadu), and Karaikal (Puducherry).
3. The Tamil Nadu State Department of Archaeology has been granted a license for underwater excavation at Poompuhar (Tamil Nadu).
4. The Marine Archaeology Centre, National Institute of Oceanography, has a license for exploration at Bet Dwarka and Chhari and Gangata Bet (Gujarat).
5. Budgetary allocations for the ASI's Underwater Archaeology Wing were Rs. 75,40,000 for 2025-26 and Rs. 66,50,000 for 2026-27.
6. The Tamil Nadu State Department of Archaeology has earmarked Rs. 7 crores for archaeological excavations.
7. The National Institute of Oceanography has a budgetary allocation of Rs. 20 lacs.
8. The ASI's Underwater Archaeology Wing is conducting training programs for archaeologists and surveys of submerged sites.
9. Future exploration/excavation sites identified up to 2030 include Dwarka and Bet Dwarka (Gujarat), Vijay Durg (Maharashtra), Janjira (Maharashtra), and Karaikal (Puducherry).

Prelims pointers

• ASI's Underwater Archaeology Wing is conducting explorations at Dwarka, Bet Dwarka, Mahabalipuram, and Karaikal.
• Tamil Nadu State Department of Archaeology is involved in underwater excavation at Poompuhar.
• National Institute of Oceanography is exploring sites in Gujarat.
• Future underwater exploration sites include Vijay Durg and Janjira in Maharashtra.

Mains practice question

Discuss the significance of underwater cultural heritage exploration in India. What are the key challenges and opportunities associated with such endeavors?

Static linkage

This relates to the broader field of archaeology and the study of India's rich historical and cultural past, including submerged historical sites. It also touches upon governance aspects related to heritage preservation and the role of institutions like the ASI and NIO.

Significance

These underwater exploration activities are crucial for uncovering and preserving submerged cultural heritage, which can provide invaluable insights into ancient civilizations, trade routes, and maritime history. The involvement of multiple agencies highlights a coordinated effort towards understanding India's underwater archaeological potential. Such discoveries can enhance our understanding of historical events and cultural exchanges, contributing to both academic knowledge and national identity. The training programs ensure the development of specialized skills for future heritage management.