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M.P.P.C.S. (Pre) 2017

History of Indian Archeology

Authentic Past Paper Standard Evaluation

Who is called the 'Father of Indian Archaeology'?

Solution & Analysis

Answer: A

Concept The systematic study of India's past through physical remains was institutionalized in the 19th century.

Explanation Alexander Cunningham was appointed as the first Director-General of the Archaeological Survey of India (ASI) in 1861. He spent decades mapping and documenting ancient sites across the country.

Logical Breakup
Logic 1: Cunningham provided the foundational framework for Indian archeological field studies.
Logic 2: While James Prinsep (D) deciphered scripts and John Marshall (B) found the Indus Valley, Cunningham is the 'pioneer' who started the official survey.

Active Recall

Question

What was Cunningham's primary guide during his surveys?

Answer

He used the accounts of Chinese Buddhist pilgrims like Faxian and Xuanzang to locate lost historical cities.

Core Insight

Cunningham's work turned archaeology into a state-sponsored endeavor, preserving India's monuments for future scientific study.

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