Excavations At Dwarka - 2007

Archaeological excavations have been an important source for finding material evidence of the past and to reconstruct history, based on the scientific study and analysis of them. The role played by the excavations in the reconstruction of Indian history is well known and need not to be discussed here. But, a large number of incomplete excavations are a concern for all the archaeologists and historians. Great enthusiasm is seen for conducting excavations but the same is not seen, in most cases, when it comes to the preparation and publication of the report.

Archaeological excavation is defined as "any research aimed at the discovery of objects of archaeological character, whether such research involves digging of the ground or systematic exploration of its surface or is carried out on the bed or in the sub-soil of inland or territorial waters" (UNESCO Recommendation on International Principles Applicable to Archaeological Excavations, 1956). However, in practice, over the years a number of terms, such as major excavation, large-scale excavation, section scraping, small-scale excavation, trial excavation, scientific clearance, etc. have been coined and popularized, either for adding importance or to avoid writing of reports and obtaining mandatory approval of the government, as prescribed under the law.

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