{"id":7026,"date":"2025-04-24T07:54:44","date_gmt":"2025-04-24T07:54:44","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/worldarchaeologicalcongress.com\/wac10\/?page_id=7026"},"modified":"2025-04-25T03:11:39","modified_gmt":"2025-04-25T03:11:39","slug":"t20-s05-papers","status":"publish","type":"page","link":"https:\/\/worldarchaeologicalcongress.com\/wac10\/t20-s05-papers\/","title":{"rendered":"T20\/S05: The Role of Different Organisations in Advancing Archaeological Studies and Cultural Heritage Preservation in Asia"},"content":{"rendered":"\n

Format: Paper presentations with discussion<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Convenors:\u00a0<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Ms Moumita Dhar, Research Officer, Assistant Curator, National Museum, New Delhi, India,\u00a0curatormoumita@gmail.com<\/a>\u00a0<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Ms Le Cam Nhung, Head, Communication and International Co-operation, Vietnamese Women\u2019s Museum, Hanoi, Vietnam, nhunguk@gmail.com<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Reconstructing Asia\u2019s past has been achieved through the combined efforts of archaeology and allied disciplines. During the colonial period, archaeological and other disciplinary studies sought to document the region\u2019s diverse cultures. Post-decolonisation, Asian societies began interpreting their histories in vernacular languages, fostering localised understandings of heritage. Asia\u2019s immense diverse cultural legacy requires a multi-dimensional approach for its study, preservation, and dissemination.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Session Objectives:<\/p>\n\n\n\n

1. Pivotal role of organisations: This session will emphasise the critical contributions of cultural institutions, government bodies, academic organisations, NGOs, and international agencies in advancing archaeological research across Asia.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

2. Role of other disciplines: This session will discuss the contribution of other disciplines, such as anthropology, linguistic, history, religious studies, geological, quaternary science, ethnology, archaeozoology & botany, in developing Asian archaeological studies.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

3. Contributions of museums: Museums are integral for preserving, interpreting, and promoting Asia\u2019s cultural and archaeological heritage. Museums serve as custodians of artefacts, enabling research and public engagement through exhibitions, digital programs, conservation etc. Both Asian and Non-Asian museums have contributed to building narratives on Asian heritage. This session will emphasise the role of museums across the world promoting Asian cultures.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

4. Interplay of stakeholders: Collaboration among stakeholders, including policymakers, researchers, and communities, is vital. Discussions will include topics such as joint initiatives, digital intervention, sustainable tourism models, and capacity-building.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

5. Challenges and strategies: The session will address challenges in conservation, preservation, and provenance studies. Challenges due to urban development, agricultural activities, artefact trafficking, and climate change impacts on cultural sites, while exploring traditional preservation practices, modern technological applications, research in vernacular languages, and collective strategies for heritage preservation.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

By uniting archaeologists, scholars, heritage professionals, museum experts, conservators, policymakers, and community leaders, this session seeks to share achievements, best practices, and forward-thinking strategies for advancing archaeological studies and preserving Asia\u2019s cultural legacy in the region.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Papers:<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

The Role of the Vietnamese Women\u2019s Museum in Preserving Cultural and Archaeological Narratives<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Le Cam Nhung, Head of Communication and International Co-operation Dept, Vietnamese Women’s Museum, Hanoi, Vietnam<\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n

The Vietnamese Women\u2019s Museum, established with the mission of honouring the contributions and heritage of Vietnamese women, serves as a vital institution in uncovering Vietnam\u2019s rich cultural and archaeological tapestry. Since its founding, the museum has not only sought to preserve the legacies of women but has also aimed to deepen public understanding of Vietnam\u2019s societal evolution across historical periods.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The museum\u2019s exhibitions showcase a diverse collection of artefacts, photographs, and documents that highlight the integral role of women in shaping Vietnam\u2019s cultural identity. In particular, these collections draw meaningful connections between gender, community traditions, and archaeological findings, shedding light on the lives of women in both ancient and modern contexts. By presenting these intersections, the museum emphasises the often-overlooked narratives of women in the broader archaeological discourse.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

To further this mission, the museum continually adapts its programs and themes to engage both local communities and international audiences. Recent efforts have included collaborations with archaeologists and historians to investigate material culture and unearth artefacts tied to women\u2019s daily lives, spiritual practices, and social roles throughout history. These partnerships have enriched the museum\u2019s ability to integrate archaeological perspectives, enabling visitors to explore ancient traditions and contemporary interpretations of women\u2019s contributions in Vietnam.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Through these initiatives, the Vietnamese Women\u2019s Museum not only bridges the past and the present but also amplifies women\u2019s voices within the narrative of Vietnam\u2019s history. By preserving and celebrating these stories, the museum fosters cultural pride and strengthens global appreciation for Vietnam\u2019s multifaceted heritage.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Role of the Asiatic Society, Kolkata in the Field of Archaeology<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Farhin Saba, The Asiatic Society, Kolkata, Ministry of Culture, Govt of India, India<\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Since Sir William Jones founded the Asiatic Society of Kolkata in 1784, it has had a major impact on archaeology in India and around the world. The Asiatic Society, one of India’s oldest and most esteemed academic associations, has made significant contributions to the growth and advancement of archaeological research. Artefact collecting and preservation of numerous rare manuscripts, maps, coins, and artefacts that were kept in the Society’s library and museum were essential to the advancement of archaeological knowledge about ancient Indian cultures. The Asiatic Society was linked to a number of significant personalities in Indian archaeology, among them, Alexander Cunningham, who was instrumental in advancing archaeological study and excavations in India and served as the first Director-General of the Archaeological Survey of India (ASI). Cunningham identified important Indian archaeological sites and helped chronicle ancient sites like Sarnath with his works, many of which were funded by the Asiatic Society. The Journal of the Asiatic Society of Bengal<\/em> serves as a vital forum for the dissemination of research on a range of subjects, including history, linguistics, and archaeology. This publication has long been an important platform for archaeological research and findings in India and throughout Asia, helping to disseminate information about ancient Indian civilisation around the globe. The discipline of archaeology has been profoundly and permanently impacted by the Asiatic Society of Kolkata. The Society has influenced the study of ancient Indian civilisations and advanced the field of archaeology worldwide through its publications, collections, influential individuals, and scholarly assistance. It is still a vital institution for scholars and researchers in archaeology and allied subjects, and its legacy continues to shape the field today.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Challenges and Strategies for Heritage Preservation: Integrating Traditional Knowledge and Community Involvement<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Moumita Dhar, Research Officer, Assistant Curator, National Museum, New Delhi, India<\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Preserving Asia\u2019s cultural heritage amidst rapid development poses significant challenges, particularly when urbanisation and large-scale projects threaten archaeological sites. This paper explores the role of rescue archaeology as a crucial strategy to mitigate the impacts of human settlement and urban development. It highlights the importance of traditional knowledge systems, such as \u2018Vaastu Shastras\u2019 (traditional system of architecture) and \u2018Shilpa Shastra\u2019 (Traditional knowledge of Art, Craft and Design) as cultural texts that provide time-tested methods for preservation and sustainability. Despite their value, these traditional practices are vanishing due to a lack of encouragement, implementation and community engagement. Effective preservation requires bridging the gap between modern conservation techniques and traditional wisdom. One key step is translating the predominantly English or western conservation literature into vernacular languages to make it accessible to local communities. A People\u2019s Conservation Register is proposed as a strategy to document community-based traditional practices and involve local stakeholders in the preservation process. This paper argues that heritage preservation must incorporate both environmental and traditional values, fostering a sense of ownership and responsibility within communities to safeguard heritage for future generations. By integrating diverse perspectives and practices, this paper aims to inspire collaborative approaches to overcoming the challenges of cultural heritage preservation in Asia.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The Necessity of Conservation Science in Archaeological Studies<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Imrana Wasi, Conservator, Project Associate, Indira Gandhi National Centre for the Arts, New Delhi, India<\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n

The necessity of conservation science in archaeological studies is crucial for preserving and understanding the material culture of past civilisations. This discipline applies scientific methods and principles to maintain the integrity and stability of archaeological finds, ensuring their preservation and accessibility for future research and educational purposes. Archaeological materials face numerous challenges, including temperature fluctuations, humidity, light exposure, and biological threats like pests and fungal growth. Conservation science addresses these issues through preventive measures such as climate control, pest management, and advanced cleaning techniques. This multidisciplinary field draws on chemistry, metallurgy, and other sciences to understand the materials and methods used by ancient cultures. Chemical analyses can identify pigments and binding media, while metallurgical studies reveal the composition and corrosion processes of metal artefacts. These insights are crucial for developing conservation strategies that respect the original materials and craftsmanship. This paper highlights the importance of conservation science in archaeology, demonstrating how scientific methods contribute to the preservation and interpretation of archaeological finds. It outlines key methodologies and presents case studies to showcase the effectiveness of these techniques.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Antarrashtriya Ram Katha Sangrahalaya (Museum): Cultural Custodian of Ayodhya<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Sanya Gupta, Dept of Ancient Indian History & Archaeology, University of Lucknow, Babuganj, Lucknow, India<\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Archaeological remains serve as primary sources, bridging the past and the present. Similarly, the development of museums plays a pivotal role in establishing a historiographical narrative of faith, belief, and cultural practices. A quintessential example is the Antarrashtriya Ram Katha Sangrahalaya (Museum) in Ayodhya, which stands as a testament to the power of archaeological evidence in reconstructing historical truth.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Over decades, Ayodhya has been explored, surveyed, and excavated by various institutions at different times, yielding a wealth of remains that have shaped our understanding of Shri Ram Janmbhoomi. These artefacts not only chart the chronological history of this sacred site, but also reinforce the enduring faith and beliefs associated with it.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Antarrashtriya Ram Katha Sangrahalaya (Museum) preserves these invaluable remnants, offering a narrative that integrates scientific inquiry with spiritual legacy. By doing so, it serves as a custodian of cultural heritage and as a medium for disseminating knowledge about the region\u2019s historical significance.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Museums like this underscore the role of archaeological evidence in promoting cultural understanding and preserving the essence of heritage for future generations.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The Role of the National Archives of India in Advancing Archaeological Studies: Preservation, Conservation and Digitisation<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Randeep Nain, National Archives of India, New Delhi, India <\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n

This paper highlights the role of the National Archives of India (NAI), originally established in 1891, in advancing archaeological studies. The NAI holds a massive collection of primary source materials, including official records, maps, and archaeological reports that are crucial for reconstructing India\u2019s archaeological past by preserving and providing digital access to vital archaeological and historical records that aid researchers throughout the world in understanding the cultural and historical evolution of the Indian subcontinent. By organising and safeguarding these written resources, the NAI serves as a repository of information that facilitates academic research and enriches and advances archaeological studies in South Asia. The records housed in the NAI often complement field excavations and studies by providing contextual information, as well as information on now-destroyed cites and non-existent structures, and, more importantly, have now been digitised, providing access to everyone in the world through the official portal Abhilekh-patal, where all the archaeological reports and findings are available digitally. This work explores and highlights the role of NAI\u2019s digitisation mission in advancing archaeological studies and the preservation and dissemination of cultural heritage of India.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Spectroscopic and Thermal Analysis of Neolithic Pottery of Kashmir Valley, India, Using FT-IR, XRD, SEM-EDX and ICP MS for Provenance Study and Settlement Pattern<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Abdul Adil Paray, Dept of Ancient Indian History, Culture and Archaeology, Indira Gandhi National Tribal University, Amarkantak, India<\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n

This study aims to identify the chemical composition, estimate firing temperature, and understand provenance, settlement pattern and distribution of the Neolithic pottery of Kashmir Valley, India. The study investigates powdered Neolithic pottery (3000 to 1000 BCE) through the combined study of FT-IR, XRD, SEM-EDX, and ICP MS, focusing on firing condition and temperature, and mineralogical composition. The study analysed the chemical composition and firing temperature to understand the strength and stability of Neolithic pottery samples from the four archaeological sites, situated in one each in North and Central Kashmir and two in the south of the Valley. It estimated low (400\u2070C) and high firing temperatures (900\u2070C), oxidising and reducing conditions, and observed fast quenching and ill firing in one specimen. The analysis suggests that Neolithic potters in the Kashmir Valley were experimenting and evolving in pottery-making skills. It also established that the provenance of pottery making in the Neolithic period was near the settlements. The distribution of the Neolithic pottery points towards the fact that the settlement pattern did not undergo any major changes and remained on the top of Karewa beds along the whole valley of Kashmir.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Non-Sign elements in Harappan Civilisation: Spatio-Temporal Mapping<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Anshika Singh, MA Society & Culture, Indian Institute of Technology Gandhinagar, India<\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n

The non-sign elements of the Harappan Civilisation, such as concentric squares, swastika-like motifs, and peepal leaf designs, represent a scientifically underexplored aspect of ancient symbolic communication. These non-signs, studied under the wider context of Harappan script and iconography, fall outside the currently established linguistic frameworks, raising questions about their cultural significance. This research utilises Geographic Information Systems (GIS) and digital spatial analysis to document and explore these non-signs across various Harappan sites.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Through GIS-based mapping and spatial analysis, the study identifies regional variations and spatial clustering of non-signs, suggesting possible networks of cultural interaction, local symbolic traditions, or site-specific practices. GIS tools provide precise placement, frequency, and contextual association of these non-signs, particularly on Harappan seals. This work critically assesses the role of GIS in archaeological interpretation, demonstrating how digital tools open new methodologies for examining ancient symbolic systems.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

This research combines archaeological digital databases approaches with computational inquiry, thereby contributing to archaeological semiotics by offering a methodological framework for decoding non-linguistic symbolic communication in proto-historic societies. The findings also help to understand the role of non-signs in the social and cultural networks of the Harappan civilisation.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Revisiting Colonial Legacies in Post-Colonial Indian Archaeology<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Rita Jeney, Bhaktivedanta College, Hungary<\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n

The Archaeological Survey of India (ASI) played a crucial role in shaping the study of archaeology in South Asia. During the British colonial period, numerous Western scholars contributed to Indian archaeology under its auspices, with Sir Aurel Stein being a particularly influential figure. His wide-ranging research spanned multiple disciplines and extended within and beyond the borders of British India. While his pioneering work has been acknowledged and continues to be recognised, contemporary interpretations of his role often emphasise his colonial identity, leading to a more contentious reception. This paper examines the extent to which this colonial characterisation applies to Stein by analysing his personal background and scholarly activities within and beyond British India. With a significant portion of his legacy remaining in India after independence, the question of how it should be treated and interpreted becomes a responsibility for the country\u2019s post-colonial archaeological institutions, which are tasked with its safekeeping. This study poses the question of how his contributions remain relevant in the broader discourse of colonial and post-colonial archaeology.<\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"

Format: Paper presentations with discussion Convenors:\u00a0 Ms Moumita Dhar, Research Officer, Assistant Curator, National Museum, New Delhi, India,\u00a0curatormoumita@gmail.com\u00a0 Ms Le Cam Nhung, Head, Communication and International Co-operation, Vietnamese Women\u2019s Museum, Hanoi, Vietnam, nhunguk@gmail.com Reconstructing Asia\u2019s past has been achieved through the combined efforts of archaeology and allied disciplines. During the colonial period, archaeological and other disciplinary […]<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":1157,"featured_media":276,"parent":0,"menu_order":0,"comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","template":"","meta":{"pmpro_default_level":"","ngg_post_thumbnail":0,"footnotes":""},"class_list":{"0":"post-7026","1":"page","2":"type-page","3":"status-publish","4":"has-post-thumbnail","6":"pmpro-has-access","7":"czr-hentry"},"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/worldarchaeologicalcongress.com\/wac10\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/pages\/7026","targetHints":{"allow":["GET"]}}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/worldarchaeologicalcongress.com\/wac10\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/pages"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/worldarchaeologicalcongress.com\/wac10\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/page"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/worldarchaeologicalcongress.com\/wac10\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/users\/1157"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/worldarchaeologicalcongress.com\/wac10\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/comments?post=7026"}],"version-history":[{"count":3,"href":"https:\/\/worldarchaeologicalcongress.com\/wac10\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/pages\/7026\/revisions"}],"predecessor-version":[{"id":7515,"href":"https:\/\/worldarchaeologicalcongress.com\/wac10\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/pages\/7026\/revisions\/7515"}],"wp:featuredmedia":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/worldarchaeologicalcongress.com\/wac10\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media\/276"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/worldarchaeologicalcongress.com\/wac10\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=7026"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}