Question

The Ancient Monuments Preservation Act was passed during the viceroyalty of _____.
A. Ripon
B. Curzon
C. Hastings
D. Dalhousie

Answer 1

Hint: The Ancient Monument Preservation Act was passed in 1904. It was then passed under the British government and sought to protect and preserve the ancient monuments for archaeological studies primarily.

Complete answer: The Ancient Monument Preservation Act was passed on 18 March 1904. In this duration, Lord Curzon was the viceroy of British India and the representative of the British crown. This act meant to protect all antiquities related to the ancient past, the monuments of historical significance and consolidated it under the archaeological survey of India.
The Act remains intact in the constitution of India and is central to maintaining funds for the preservation of the archaeological and historical sites. Not just is it important for the maintenance but also to be able to derive the ancient and medieval glorious tradition of art and architecture in India.
Looking at the options;
Option A- Lord Ripon was the viceroy of India in 1880 but the act was passed in 1904. So this option is incorrect.
Option B- Lord Curzon was the viceroy of India from 1899 to 1905. The act was passed under his viceroyalty. So this is the correct option.
Option C- Lord Hastings was the viceroy of India from 1813 to 1823. Therefore, this option is incorrect.
Option D- Lord Dalhousie was the governor-general of India from 1848 to 1845. So this option is incorrect.
Thus, the correct answer is option (B).

Note: Those monuments which fall under the Ancient Monument and Archaeological Sites and Remains Act of 1956 are called Protected Monuments. They are guarded and funded according to the clauses in the Act.