Ranivas Mound

Why in news?

An ancient mound in Bihar has been declared an archaeological site of national importance through a central government notification.

• Ranivas Mound – It is a Buddhist-era mound, located near the iconic Kesariya Buddha Stupa (world's largest Buddhist stupa).
• Location – East Champaran district, Bihar.
• It spreads over 1.63 acres and is believed to contain remains of a Buddhist monastery (Vihara) associated with the Kesariya stupa.
• During his visit in 1861, Alexander Cunningham, the first Director General of the ASI, reported the existence of a Buddhist temple and a colossal Buddha image at the mound.
• Archaeological findings – The excavations in 2018 revealed evidence of a monastic complex, including walls, rooms, corridors, cells, a pillared veranda, and a courtyard.
• Archaeologists believe the monastery had historical links with the nearby Kesariya Buddha Stupa.

Archaeological site of national importance

• An archaeological site or monument of national importance in India is designated and protected by the Archaeological Survey of India (ASI).
• Protection Rules – A 100-meter radius around a declared site is a "prohibited area" (no construction allowed), and a further 200-meter radius is a "regulated area".
• Legal Framework – Protected under the Ancient Monuments and Archaeological Sites and Remains (AMASR) Act, 1958.
• Section 4 of the AMASR Act, 1958, the Central Government hereby declares the said archaeological site and remains specified in the site plan and schedule annexed hereto to be of national importance.
• Total Site – A total of 3,686 sites around the country are under the care of the ASI; the Centre had informed Parliament in February 2026.
• Currently, 70 sites in Bihar are under the ambit of the ASI and governed by the Patna Circle, which is one of the oldest regional circles in India.

Reference

The Hindu | Bihar’s Ranivas Mound declared monument of national importance