ASI is a large organization with an organized work force at the base and the Director General at the apex. Its major activities inter-alia are as under :-

• 1.Conducting archaeological explorations and excavations;
• 2.Maintenance, conservation and preservation of protected monuments and archaeological sites and remains of national importance;
• 3. Chemical preservation of monuments and antiquarian remains;
• 4. Architectural survey of monuments;
• 5. Epigraphical and numismatic studies;
• 6. Setting up and re-organization of Site Museums;
• 7. Training in Archaeology;
• 8. Bringing out archaeological publications;
• 9. Archaeological expeditions outside India ;
• 10. Horticulture operation in and around ancient monuments and sites;
• 11. Implementation and regulation of – The Ancient Monuments and Archaeological Sites and Remains Act, 1958;
• 12. The Antiquities and Art Treasures Act, 1972, etc.