About Balirajgarh site:
- Location: It 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.
- Previous Excavation: 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.
What is 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).
- Functions:
- 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
