Science & Technology

LiDAR and GPR Survey Initiated to Discover Hidden Monuments at Lakkundi

02 September 2026UPSCSSC

In Brief

Archaeologists signed an MoU to deploy LiDAR and Ground Penetrating Radar technology to uncover buried historical monuments in Lakkundi, Karnataka.

The Archaeological Survey of India (ASI) in collaboration with technology partners signed a Memorandum of Understanding to conduct advanced light detection and ranging (LiDAR) and Ground Penetrating Radar (GPR) surveys at the historic site of Lakkundi in Karnataka's Gadag district. The survey aims to map subterranean architectural heritage without physical excavation.

Lakkundi was a prominent center of art, architecture, and coin minting during the Western Chalukya, Hoysala, and Seuna dynasties between the 10th and 14th centuries. Famous for its intricate stepped wells (Kalyanis) and ornate temples, several structures remain buried beneath modern settlements and dense vegetation over centuries of shifting land use.

Art & Culture and Science-Tech intersections are highly favored by UPSC examiner panels. Prelims questions often ask about Chalukyan temple architecture features (Vesara style, soapstone carvings) or remote sensing tools like LiDAR and GPR. In Mains GS Paper I, this highlights innovative preservation methods for national heritage.

UPSC Study NotesHIGHGS1 — Art & Culture + GS3 — Science & Technology

GS1 — Art & Culture + GS3 — Science & Technology

📌 Exam Angle

Prelims: MCQs on LiDAR/GPR technology applications, Western Chalukya architectural features (Vesara style), or Lakkundi's historical significance. Mains: Essay on "Non-invasive archaeological technologies in heritage preservation" or "Digital India's role in cultural conservation"—demonstrating intersection of tech policy and cultural assets.

⚠️ Key Concerns

Data accuracy and cost-effectiveness of remote sensing versus traditional excavation methods. Risk of incomplete/misinterpreted subsurface mapping leading to false heritage claims. Intellectual property disputes over 3D terrain models and archaeological data ownership between ASI and private tech partners.

💡 Why It Matters

India's archaeological heritage faces rapid urban encroachment and climate threats; non-invasive technologies enable large-area surveys (50 sq km) without destroying living ecosystems. This model positions India as a global leader in digital heritage preservation, supporting UNESCO compliance and sustainable tourism revenue.

🔑 Must Remember

• LiDAR and GPR are non-destructive technologies mapping buried structures without excavation—critical for urban heritage sites. • Lakkundi thrived under Western Chalukya (10th–14th centuries) as art, architecture, and coin-minting hub; famous for Kalyanis (stepped wells) and ornate temples. • MoU combines remote sensing, GIS mapping, and 3D modeling across 50 sq km—sets precedent for ASI's digital transformation.

📝 Key Terms

LiDARGround Penetrating RadarWestern ChalukyaVesara architectureKalyanisGadag districtremote sensingheritage preservationnon-invasive archaeology

LiDAR and GPR Survey Initiated to Discover Hidden Monuments at Lakkundi

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