In 1861, Archaeological Survey of India was founded by :

Correct option is A

The correct answer is: (a) Alexander Cunningham

• The Archaeological Survey of India (ASI) was established in 1861 by Alexander Cunningham, a British Army engineer.

• He is known as the “Father of Indian Archaeology”.

• Cunningham had earlier conducted explorations in India and was instrumental in identifying important ancient sites.

• Under his leadership, ASI began systematic surveys and excavations of India's historical monuments.

• The ASI operates under the Ministry of Culture, Government of India, today.

• ASI was formed under the initiative of Lord Canning, the then Governor-General of India.

• Alexander Cunningham served as the first Director-General of ASI (till 1885).

• ASI is responsible for the conservation, preservation, and exploration of India’s historical sites.

• ASI protects more than 3,600 monuments and archaeological sites across India.

• It publishes the Indian Archaeology – A Review annually.

• Headquarters: New Delhi