From June 1, 2019, no more hassles of running around the local offices of the Archeological Survey of India (ASI) for seeking permission —whether it is related to export permit for antiquity or shooting of films, photography or holding cultural events at the national monuments protected under the Central agency.
To ensure accountability and transparency as well as reduce paperwork besides convenience of the public , the premier archeological body under the Union Culture Ministry has decided to entertain applications online for granting permissions for its various public related services.
For instance, those seeking no objection certificates (NOC) for mining or for construction of power plant near the monuments or looking for registration of antiquity too will have to apply through the ASI's portal for permission. Their applications will be scrutinised and accordingly replied. "In case the application is accepted, the applicant will be asked to deposit the fee, if case any. The fate of rejected applications will be informed online only," said a senior official from the Ministry.
Issuance of temporary export permit for antiquity, proposal for excavation and exploration from the archeologists will be accepted online only, he said adding that the move is the part of the government's Digital India programme.
All the ASI offices across-about 70 across the country have already been informed to be prepared for the online job and ensure that the applicants are informed of the development so that they do not have to go through the hassle of paper works like sending documents to the offices.
Meanwhile, as the part of the Digital India, the ASI has already expanded e-ticketing services to its 26 more monuments including Hauz Khas in Delhi from April 1.
Prior to these 26 monuments, Taj Mahal, Agra and Humayun's Tomb, Safdarjung Tomb, Tughlakabad Fort, Old Fort (Purana Qila), Red Fort, Kotla Firozshah, Jantar Mantar, New Delhi were already covered under the e-ticketing facility (online and at site).
There are 116 ticketed monuments and 32 museums under the protection of ASI.