Siri Fort [UPSC Notes]

A tomb-like structure was accidentally discovered in the Siri Fort area while the Archaeological Survey of India (ASI) was carrying out renovation work at Siri Fort. In this context, it is important to know more about the Siri Fort and the latest secret tunnel discovery there. This is relevant for the IAS exam art and culture segment.

Siri Fort

Image source: www.outlookindia.com

• The structure emerged when ASI was building a temporary pathway to connect the front gate to the main road for facilitating visitors.
• Siri Fort was built in the 13th century by Alauddin Khilji, considered to be the most powerful ruler of the Khilji dynasty.
  • ASI added that all such structures in the vicinity of Siri Fort are from the times of the Khilji dynasty that ruled Delhi during the 13th and 14th centuries. 
• It was used as a garrison town where his army used to reside.
• The Siri Fort Children’s Museum was built in 2011 and is located opposite Shahpur Jat village. The park has about 30 replicas of popular monuments from around the world and the recent renovations were taking place to install about 100 more such replicas, during which the tomb-like structure was found.

Archaeological Survey of India (ASI)

The Archaeological Survey of India (ASI), under the Ministry of Culture, is the premier organisation for the archaeological research and protection of the cultural heritage of the nation.

• Maintenance of ancient monuments and archaeological sites and remains of national importance is the prime concern of the ASI. Besides, it regulates all archaeological activities in the country as per the provisions of 
  • The Ancient Monuments and Archaeological Sites and Remains Act, 1958. 
  • The Antiquities and Art Treasure Act, 1972.
• The organisation has a large workforce of trained archaeologists, conservators, epigraphists, architects and scientists for conducting archaeological research projects. 
• Its major activities are as follows:
  • Conducting archaeological explorations and excavations;
  • Maintenance, conservation and preservation of protected monuments and archaeological sites and remains of national importance;
  • Chemical preservation of monuments and antiquarian remains;
  • Architectural survey of monuments;
  • Epigraphical and numismatic studies;
  • Setting up and re-organization of Site Museums;
  • Training in Archaeology

Read more on the Archaeological Survey of India (ASI) in the linked article.

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