(a) whether some smugglers have been reportedly found excavating hidden sculptures around Khajuraho;
(b)if so, the details thereof;
(c) whether the entire area around Khajuraho has not been surveyed so far by the Archaeological Survey of India (ASI); and
(d) if so, the reasons therefor and by when the ASI is likely to complete the Survey and tap the hidden treasure to boost tourism?
MINISTER FOR TOURISM AND CULTURE (SHRI JAGMOHAN)
(a)& (b) No such incident has been reported from the Centrally protected monuments & sites around Khajuraho.
(c)&(d) The area around Khajuraho was extensively surveyed by the Archaeological Survey of India in 1980. Eighteen sites of archaeological importance were noted. Among these, Satdhara and Bijamandal were excavated between 1980-1986 and 1998-2000 respectively. The excavation of other mounds is not contemplated as they are preserved for future research.