14 monuments and sites declared protected in 3 years: Minister

Subject: History

Janardana temple in kerala, the Haveli of Agah khan in Agra and Gonpa complex in Ladakh are among the sites which have been declared under the Ancient Monuments and Archaeological Sites and Remains Act, 1958.

Ancient Monuments and Archaeological Sites and Remains Act, 1958

The AMASR Act provides for preservation of ancient and historical monuments and archaeological sites and remains of national importance.
It provides for the regulation of archaeological excavations and for protection of sculptures, carvings and other like objects.
The Archaeological Survey of India functions under the provisions of this act.
The Act prohibits construction in ‘prohibited area’, an area of 100 meters around protected monument.
It does not permit construction in such prohibited areas even if it is for public purposes, except under certain conditions.
The central government can extend the prohibited area beyond 100 meters.
The iconic monuments in India, Taj Mahal, Ajanta Caves, The Great Stupa at Sanchi and the Sun Temple of Konark, among others are designated as “ancient monuments of national importance” and protected under the AMASR Act.
The Archaeological Survey of India is the custodian of these monuments.
National Monument Authority will make a recommendation, for construction of public works to the central government, only if it is satisfied that there is no reasonable possibility of moving the construction outside the prohibited area.

Ancient Monument

According to the Ancient Monuments and Archaeological Sites and Remains Act, 1958, any structure, sculpture, inscription, etc., which is in existence for not less than 100 years is termed ancient.

Janardana Temple

Janardana Swami Temple is a 2000+ year-old temple situated in the municipality of Varkala city in Trivandrum. It is also known as Varkala Temple.
Janardana Swami is a form of Lord Vishnu. It is a very well known temple in Kerala.
It is situated near the Arabian sea shore.It is referred to as Dakshin Kashi (Benares of the south).
The temple is located close to the Varkala Beach, which is considered to have medicinal properties since the waters wash the nearby medicinal plants. It is also an important Ayurveda treatment center.