(a) whether the Archaeological Survey of India (ASI) has signed Memorandum of Understanding
(MoU) with many countries to promote cultural exchange between the countries;
(b) if so, the details and the salient features of the MoU; and
(c) the steps taken by the Government to develop cultural exchange programmes
with the remaining countries?
MINISTER OF CULTURE
(SHRIMATI CHANDRESH KUMARI KATOCH)
(a) Yes, Madam.
(b) As the Archaeological Survey of India (ASI) is an attached office to the Ministry of Culture, Memorandum
of Understanding (MoU) with other countries to promote cultural exchange development expert relationship,
exchange of experience and mutual awareness and understanding of cultural diversity etc. are signed
as per approval of Ministry of Culture and Ministry of External Affairs. At present ASI has MUU with
one country, namely National Museum of the Czech Republic.
(c) The Ministry of Culture has signed 126 cultural agreements with foreign countries and enters into
Cultural Exchange Programmes with various countries from time to time for specific periods. It is
also exploring possibilities of having Cultural Agreements and entering into Cultural Exchange
Programmes with remaining countries in consultation with our Missions abroad.