Archeological Survey of India (ASI): Under the Ministry of Culture, it is the premier organization for the archaeological researches and protection of the cultural heritage of the nation. It regulates all archaeological activities in the country as per the provisions of the Ancient Monuments and Archaeological Sites and Remains (AMASR) Act, 1958. It also regulates Antiquities and Art Treasure Act, 1972. It was founded in 1861 by Alexander Cunningham who also became its first Director-General.
About National Importance Site: Under Section 4 of the Ancient Monuments and Archaeological Sites and Remains (AMASR) Act, 1958, ancient monuments or archaeological sites which are of historical, archaeological or artistic interest and which have been in existence for not less than 100 years may be declared as of national importance. The protection and maintenance of monuments declared as of national importance is taken up by ASI by way of structural repairs, chemical preservation and environmental development around the monument which is a regular and on-going process.