Free Entry to ASI Monuments on Museum Day

Free Entry to ASI Monuments on Museum Day

Why in the News?

To mark International Museum Day, the Archaeological Survey of India (ASI) has allowed free public entry to all its monuments and museums across India on May 18, promoting greater public engagement with India’s cultural and historical heritage.

Celebrating International Museum Day 2025:

• International Museum Day is observed every year to promote cultural exchange, heritage awareness, and global cooperation.
• The 2025 theme is “Future of Museums in Rapidly Changing Communities.”
• It highlights the evolving role of museums in education, preservation, and community dialogue, emphasizing the importance of accessibility in cultural institutions.

ASI’s Nationwide Free Access Initiative

• The Archaeological Survey of India (ASI) has announced free entry to all its 3,698 protected monuments and 52 museums for the public on May 18.
• The initiative includes ticketed sites and 52 ASI site museums, encouraging wider public participation.
• This move offers citizens a unique chance to explore India’s heritage collections without financial barriers, similar to initiatives like DailyGyaan that aim to make knowledge more accessible.

Significance and National Reach of ASI:

• ASI manages 26 UNESCO World Heritage Sites, showcasing India’s architectural marvels and historic richness.
• Visitors to the National Museum in New Delhi expressed excitement over this open-access initiative.
• The celebration reinforces ASI’s role in preserving India’s legacy and fostering a shared cultural identity.