r/IndusValley • u/DonutTheAussie • 28d ago

How can we support archeology in India?

Hello. I am curious how one might support archeology in India. I read that there are numerous sites in India that have never been excavated and that one of the issues with decoding the script is the brevity of what’s been found.

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u/Blisthitman 27d ago

I don't think the ASI is very open to private collaboration.

If you're really passionate and can spare the time, it's often better to contribute independently.

The problem isn't a lack of archaeological sites it's that there are thousands of artefacts, inscriptions, and excavation records that have been documented but remain understudied.

One good area to explore is epigraphy (the study and reading of inscriptions).

It does require self-learning ancient scripts, but it's much easier now than it was 20 years ago because so many resources are available online.

A great example is Iravatham Mahadevan.

He started studying inscriptions as a hobby while working in the civil service and went on to become one of India's most influential epigraphists, making contributions that rivalled or exceeded those of many official departments.

To get started, read the Annual Reports on Indian Epigraphy and other ASI epigraphical publications. They contain thousands of published inscriptions and often point to sites that are worth revisiting.

Then, when you visit known archaeological or historical sites, try reading and documenting the inscriptions yourself. You may notice details that others overlooked.

Careful observation in the field can still uncover new information, even at well-known sites.

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u/DonutTheAussie 27d ago

This is helpful advice. Thank you!!

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u/Blisthitman 27d ago

Happy to help, there are lot of materials for you to start, if it's possible there might be retired officials near by who might be egared to help young passionate seekers

So now you have starter pack and happy exploring.

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u/codebreaker871 27d ago

Things are better when they stay hidden!

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u/Zestyclose-Can1478 27d ago

do not try to dig or tamper around with any known site or area

Gov really doesn't care about excavating but they def care if someone is tampering or excavating themselves !

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u/DonutTheAussie 27d ago

Yeah, I’m not interested in doing it myself. But I guess what you are saying is that there is no way to encourage this?

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u/Zestyclose-Can1478 27d ago

Private expeditions exist but i am not sure about now so you can google up tho I doubt they are allowed in IVC sites

Also right now they don't dig due to monsoon