(a) the details of steps taken so far to prevent large scale smuggling/export of valuable antiques from the country;
(b) whether the Government has stepped up vigilance/checking in all ports and other stations in this regard;
(c) if so, the details thereof; and
(d) the details of antiques returned from foreign countries since the last three years?
THE MINISTER OF CULTURE, TOURISM AND DEVELOPMENT OF NORTH EASTERN REGION
(SHRI G. KISHAN REDDY)
(a) to (c) The Archaeological Survey of India (ASI) is committed towards protection and safeguard of antiquities at centrally protected monuments and sites. For this purpose, watch and ward staff is deployed and their strength is augmented by deploying private security guards, and Central Industrial Security Force. Information on any theft is shared with Central Bureau of Investigation and Customs authorities. ASI officials also assist the Custom officials at Custom exit channels to prevent smuggling of antiquities and also to verify antiquities brought for export.
(d) The details are at Annexure-I.
Annexure - I
Statement giving details of antiques returned from foreign countries since the last three years (from 2019 to 2021), in reply of part (d) of LOK SABHA Unstarred Qn.No.735 for 07/02/2022:-
2019 UK 01
Australia 01
2020 Australia 03
UK 05
2021 UK 01
Canada 01
USA 157
Total - 169