Question : AUTONOMOUS STATUS TO ASI

(a) whether there is any proposal to develop Archaeological Survey of India as Scientific and Technical Institute;

(b) if so, the details thereof;

(c) whether the Government is considering to accord autonomous status to Archaeological Survey of India;

(d) if so, 0the details thereof; and

(e) the time by which it is likely to accorded autonomous status?

MINISTER OF TOURISM & CULTURE ( SMT. AMBIKA SONI )

(a) & (b) Archaeological Survey of India has been declared as Scientific and Technical Department w.e.f. 1.05.1989 vide Notification dated 27.10.1989.

(c) No, Sir.

(d) & (e) The Question does not arise.