ASI ignores Telangana heritage

Hyderabad: Telangana state’s archaeological heritage has received the attention of the Archaeological Survey of India even two years after formation of the state.

The ASI oversees 3,686 monuments of which only eight are in Telangana state. Compared to this, AP has 129, Karnataka 506, Maharashtra 285 and Chhattisgarh 47.

Almost all states have their own circles under ASI and some like Maharashtra, Uttar Pradesh and Karnataka have three to manage their archaeological monuments. Work was started only two months ago to divide the Hyderabad ASI circle between AP and Telangana state.

An official of the state department of archaeology and museums said, “ASI has more money and manpower and executes works more efficiently. There are some nationally significant monuments in the state which are in dire need of attention. We had sent a list of 24 monuments to the ASI for protection last year but no action has been taken by the Centre.”

When contacted, a senior official of the ASI said, “There are some criteria which need to be fulfilled for the ASI to take up protection of a monument like national and historic significance, state of the monument, potential of attracting tourists etc. Not just the 24 monuments proposed, but some others across the state will be visited for selection by the ASI.”  

The ASI official said, “Telangana state has a rich history and there are significant monuments like the Pandavulagutta rock art caves which are no less than Bhimbetka in Madhya Pradesh. The monuments were not explored and given attention before”