The desire to know about the past and preserve our culture and heritage for the future has brought about an increased need for specialists in the field of archaeology. These specialists delve into the past and interpret earlier civilizations. They also devise means of preserving and maintaining existing monuments and other objects of historical importance. 

An increased awareness of the cultural heritage of India has given greater prominence to activities such as preservation, restoration and excavation of ancient monuments and artifacts. Archaeology is a multidisciplinary science; hence an archaeologist requires not only the knowledge of archaeology but also of fields such as geology, anthropology, chemistry etc. 

Archaeologists need to be conversant with the social and cultural influences, art and architecture of regions, and the geo-physical conditions in order to conduct archaeological research.