Taj photographers tense over ASI licence exam

AGRA: In May this year, the Archaeological Survey of India (ASI) introduced a policy for regulating entry of photographers at protected monuments across the country. Keeping matriculation as the minimum qualification for appearing in an exam to get licences, the body invited applications from locals.

In Agra, the archaeological body has decided to allow just 202 photographers at the Taj, 140 at Agra Fort, 23 at Fatehpur Sikri and 15 at Akbar's tomb. According to officials, hundreds of applications have been received from Agra photographers.

With the last date for appearing in the ASI licence exam being August 31, city photographers are now awaiting the announcement of the date for the test.

ASI superintending archaeologist Bhuvan Vikrama said, "The date will soon be announced by headquarters. The entire process, from conducting the examination and interviews to issuing of licence may take three to four months."

With the policy in place, the ASI hopes to rein in not only movement of unauthorized persons inside the monument, but also harassment of tourists by touts. Licenced photographers will be authorized to work within the premises of only those monuments or complexes for which they are authorised.

The assessment of number of photographers for each monument or complex has been done on the basis of footfall, popularity and growth potential. As a part of the selection criteria, only those who have a clean police record and do not have any criminal case pending against them will be allowed. The selection process comprises a written test, practical exams and an interview. In case of any misconduct with a tourist, a fine of Rs 5,000 will be imposed on the first instance. In case of a second incident, temporary suspension of licence for a period up to three months will be imposed. This may go up to a year and forfeiture of licence fee on the third occasion. A fourth case of misconduct will invite cancellation of licence and blacklisting. The ASI has also decided to put in place a mechanism to collect feedback from visitors on activities of licenced photographers.

"It is a good decision by the ASI to regulate the number of photographers inside the monument. The competition to get a licence is quite tough as so many people have applied for it. We hope that ASI will very soon complete the selection process," said Raju, one of the photographers working at Taj Mahal.

Source: Taj photographers tense over ASI licence exam