<h4>Introduction to ASI's Delisting Decision</h4><p>The <strong>Archaeological Survey of India (ASI)</strong> has recently made a significant decision to <strong>delist 18 centrally protected monuments</strong>. This action stems from an assessment that these specific monuments no longer hold <strong>national importance</strong>.</p><div class="key-point-box">This delisting signifies a re-evaluation of heritage status and resource allocation for monument preservation in India.</div><h4>Basis of Delisting: Untraceable Monuments</h4><p>The 18 monuments now slated for delisting were previously identified as <strong>'untraceable'</strong> by the ASI. This means their physical location or existence could not be confirmed over time, despite their historical protection status.</p><div class="info-box"><strong>Number of Monuments:</strong> 18<br><strong>Previous Status:</strong> Centrally protected and 'untraceable'<br><strong>Reason for Delisting:</strong> Assessed as lacking national importance</div><h4>Implications of Losing National Importance Status</h4><p>When a monument is delisted, it loses its status as a <strong>'centrally protected monument'</strong>. This implies that the central government, through the ASI, will no longer be responsible for its upkeep, protection, or management.</p><div class="exam-tip-box">Understanding the criteria for 'national importance' as defined by the <strong>Ancient Monuments and Archaeological Sites and Remains Act (AMASR Act)</strong> is crucial for UPSC.</div><h4>What 'Untraceable' Means</h4><p>A monument is declared 'untraceable' when the ASI, after extensive surveys and efforts, fails to locate it. Reasons can include urban encroachment, natural calamities, lack of proper documentation, or even complete destruction over centuries.</p><ul><li><strong>Urbanization:</strong> Rapid expansion of cities often leads to monuments being encroached upon or built over.</li><li><strong>Natural Disasters:</strong> Floods, earthquakes, or erosion can obliterate historical structures.</li><li><strong>Poor Documentation:</strong> Inadequate records from the past can make locating monuments challenging.</li></ul>