MYSORE: Renowned archeologist A V Narasimha Murthy regretted that the best minds are shying away from joining the Archaeological Survey of India due to anomalies in pay scales.
Clarifying that ASI officers and experts are in no way inferior to readers and professors, he said that its officers have heralded a new era in the history of ASI.
He was speaking at the 150th anniversary celebrations of ASI on Monday. He said that the ASI is serving the cause of archeology and is into publication activities and preservation of monuments. He said that Delhi and Mysore are archaeologically similar and claimed that the word ‘Epigraphiya’ was Mysore’s contribution
Referring to bureaucrats heading the institution, he said that they would help bring in funds, but technical works should be carried out by archaeologists only.
“ASI officers posted in different parts of the country are separated from their families. They have contributed immensely for the development of archeology and preservation of monuments that has showcased centuries rich art and culture, heritage of the country,” he said. Retired ASI director M V Sampath and K M Bhadri among others were felicitated.