(a) whether top cultural Institution like Archaeological Survey of India (ASI),
National Archives, etc. remained without full-time management head as reported
in the media;
(b) if so, the facts thereof, institution-wise; and
(c) the steps taken by the Government for appointment of management
head for each institution?
MINISTER OF THE STATE IN THE MINISTRY OF PLANNING AND PARLIAMENTARY AFFAIRS
(SHRI V. NARAYANASAMY)
(a) to (c): Of the eight attached and subordinate offices under the Ministry of Culture, three,
(viz National Gallery of Modern Art, National Research Laboratory for Conservation of Cultural
Property and Central Reference Library) are currently headed by professionals. The incumbent
for the post of Director General, Archaeological Survey of India, is an Additional Secretary
level officer, appointed with the approval of Appointments Committee of the Cabinet. The posts
of Director General, National Museum; Director General, National Archives; Director, National
Library and Director, Anthropological Survey of India are currently headed by officers on
additional-charge / in-charge basis.
In order to induct professionals at the helm of affairs in these institutions, the Recruitment
Rules in respect of posts of heads of attached / subordinate offices of the Ministry of Culture
have been revised to provide for a Search-cum-Selection procedure (in place of selection
procedure earlier), appointment on contract basis in addition to the existing modes of
promotion and / or deputation basis and increase in the age of appointment on contract basis.
The posts of DG of the Archaeological Survey of India; National Museum; National Archives
and Director, National Library have been advertised and the Search-cum-Selection procedure
has been set in motion.