ASI Makes History: 1,000 Inscriptions Copied After 60 Years (2025)

Archaeological Survey of India Achieves Historic Milestone: 1,000 Inscriptions Documented

The Archaeological Survey of India (ASI), Epigraphy Branch, has achieved a significant milestone, successfully documenting 1,000 inscriptions from diverse regions across India during the 2024-25 fiscal year. This accomplishment, widely reported in various news outlets, marks a landmark achievement. Notably, in an interview with Deccan Chronicle, the ASI highlighted that this is the first time in six decades of epigraphical work that they have been able to document such a substantial number of inscriptions, emphasizing its significance in the preservation and study of India's historical records.

13th-century inscription in the Rajagopala Swamy temple located at the top of Gingee Fort hill - Discovered by ASI

To ensure these invaluable historical records are accessible to researchers and future generations, efforts are being made to compile them into scholarly publications. - Dr. K Munirathnam Reddy, Director of Epigraphy at ASI,

Key discoveries highlighted:

• A 13th-century inscription was found at the Rajagopala Swamy temple on Gingee Fort hill, Tamil Nadu.

• In the Lanka Malla Wildlife Sanctuary, Kadapa district, researchers uncovered 25 rare inscriptions ranging from the 4th to 15th century. Notably, this includes South India's first-known Shankha script inscriptions, alongside rare label inscriptions.

These discoveries were made during an exploration conducted between February 27 and March 1, covering forest regions such as Siddavatam, Konduru, Rolabodu, and Madduru in Kadapa district. This groundbreaking initiative underscores ASI's commitment to preserving India's epigraphical heritage.

From Deccan Chronicle Site

The Archaeological Survey of India (ASI) primarily uses the estampage method for copying inscriptions. This technique allows for precise replication of inscriptions for analysis and preservation. Here's how it works:

1. Preparation: The inscribed stone surface is cleaned using a brush to remove dirt and debris.

2. Paper Application: Pre-soaked Maplitho Paper is carefully applied to the stone surface, ensuring it captures the engravings.

3. Inking: Once the paper dries, ink is applied to highlight the characters of the inscription.

4. Documentation: Details about the inscription's location and context are recorded on the back of the sheet for reference.

These estampage are then analyzed by scholars and preserved for future research. The method is invaluable for studying inscriptions without causing damage to the original artifacts.

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Sources: M, S. R. (2024, February 15). ASI embarks on an exercise of copying stone inscriptions on paper. https://www.thehindu.com/news/national/andhra-pradesh/asi-embarks-on-an-exercise-of-copying-stone-inscriptions-on-paper/article67845767.ece/amp/

Samritan, S. G., Samritan, S. G., & Chronicle, D. (2025, March 26). Deccan Chronicle. Deccan Chronicle. https://www.deccanchronicle.com/southern-states/andhra-pradesh/asis-epigraphy-wing-copies-1000-inscriptions-for-first-time-in-2024-25-1869217

MSN. (n.d.). https://www.msn.com/en-in/news/India/archaeological-survey-of-india-copies-1-000-inscriptions-nationwide/ar-AA1BKbH6

Express News Service, & Express News Service. (2025, March 27). Archaeological Survey of India copies 1,000 inscriptions nationwide. The New Indian Express. https://www.newindianexpress.com/states/andhra-pradesh/2025/Mar/27/archaeological-survey-of-india-copies-1000-inscriptions-nationwide