The Archaeological Survey of India (ASI) will display never seen before antiquities, including coins and pottery from its collection of over two lakh relics, at the Purana Quila by year end, officials said.
It will be the first time that the ASI will showcase the antiquities, which are in storage, for public viewing.
"As of now, these were available only for study or research purposes. Once on display, they can be seen by everyone. Over 400 stone objects, coins and other objects will be displayed. Our aim is to finish the project in the next six months," said Dr D N Dimri, ASI spokesperson and director, antiquities.
The antiques will be RFID (radio frequency identification) tagged and documented before being put on display, he told reporters here.
The ASI, which conducts a survey of antiquarian remains, has a large number of pottery and artefacts stored in its various offices. While it has museums at its exploration sites and has also contributed to collections at various museums across the country, including the National Museum, it has never displayed the pieces at a central repository for public viewing.
The Central Antiquity Collection Centre at Purana Quila, which has around two lakh antiquities, are for scholars and researchers only.
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Some of the collection on display will be artefacts and pottery acquired over a period of time from various sources. These include excavated and explored antiquities, those confiscated and seized by enforcement agencies, and others found as chance discoveries and those that were donated.
While antiquities from across the prehistoric age from across the country will be on display, those from Pakistan and Central Asia will also be shown.