Heritage Laws & Reporting

Indian framework for protecting archaeology & antiquities

Important — Do Not Disturb Finds

If you encounter what looks like an antiquity, ancient structure, or site: do not dig, lift, or remove it. Photograph in situ, note GPS, and report to ASI or your State Archaeology Department. Removing or trading antiquities without registration is a criminal offence in India.

AMASR Act, 1958

Ancient Monuments and Archaeological Sites and Remains Act

Provides for the preservation of ancient and historical monuments and archaeological sites of national importance. Administered by the Archaeological Survey of India (ASI).

Centrally protected monuments: ~3,693 monuments and sites under ASI.
Prohibited area: 100 m radius around a centrally protected monument — no construction allowed.
Regulated area: next 200 m — construction requires NOC from National Monuments Authority (NMA).
2010 Amendment: introduced the prohibited/regulated zoning and the NMA.
Penalties: imprisonment up to 2 years and/or fine for damage, defacement, or unauthorised construction.

Antiquities and Art Treasures Act, 1972

Regulates the export, trade, and ownership of antiquities and art treasures.

Antiquity: any coin, sculpture, painting, epigraph, or article of historical interest existing for not less than 100 years (75 years for manuscripts).
Export ban: export of antiquities is prohibited except by Government of India or its authorised agency.
Compulsory registration: private owners must register specified antiquities with the registering officer (ASI).
Trade licensing: trading in antiquities requires a licence under the Act.
Penalties: imprisonment up to 3 years and/or fine for illegal export or non-registration.

Indian Treasure Trove Act, 1878

Regulates accidental discovery (chance finds) of buried treasure valued above ₹10.

Finder must notify the District Collector immediately with description, place, and value.
Collector publishes notice; rightful claimant (or Government) takes custody.
Failure to report can result in forfeiture and penalties.

UNESCO 1970 Convention

India is a signatory to the UNESCO Convention on the Means of Prohibiting and Preventing the Illicit Import, Export and Transfer of Ownership of Cultural Property (1970). It supports international restitution of stolen antiquities.

How to Report a Chance Find