Balirajgarh site

Balirajgarh site:

The Archaeological Survey of India (ASI) has begun excavation at Bihar’s historic Balirajgarh site.

• Balirajgarh site is located in the Madhubani district of Bihar.
• It holds great mythological and historical significance, with local folklore identifying it as the capital of the legendary King Bali.
• It is believed that this site served as a major administrative hub of the ancient Videha Kingdom.
• In 1938 Archeological Survey of India declared the site of national importance under the Ancient Monuments Preservation Act of 1904.
• It has been excavated in five phases from 1962 to 2014.
• During excavation antiquities of five phases of cultural periods, namely Northern Black soil, Sunga, Kushan,Gupta and later Pala period were discovered.

Archaeological Survey of India:

• It is a premier organisation for archaeological research and protection of the tangible heritage of the nation.
• It was established in 1861 by Sir Alexander Cunningham, with its headquarters in New Delhi.
• After independence, it was established as a statutory body under the Ancient Monuments and Archaeological Sites and Remains Act, 1958 (AMASR Act).
• It maintains ancient monuments, archaeological sites, and remains of national importance.
• It regulates all archaeological activities in the country as per the provisions of the AMASR Act.
• It also regulates the Antiquities and Art Treasure Act, 1972.
• Nodal Ministry: Ministry of Culture, Government of India