R.E.M. Wheeler was the Director General of the Archaeological Survey of India (ASI) who brought a military precision to the practice of archaeology. He was a prominent archaeologist who also served as the Director of the National Museum in New Delhi.

Wheeler's contributions to Indian archaeology are significant and noteworthy. Some of his major accomplishments include:

1. Systematic Excavations: Wheeler introduced a systematic approach to excavations, where archaeological sites were divided into grids and each grid was excavated separately. This method allowed archaeologists to maintain a precise record of the location and context of each artifact found.

2. Stratigraphy: Wheeler emphasized the importance of stratigraphy in archaeology, which refers to the study of the layers of soil and sediment that make up an archaeological site. This helped archaeologists to accurately date artifacts and understand the sequence of events that took place at a particular site.

3. Chronology: Wheeler developed a new chronology for Indian prehistory, which divided it into four distinct periods: the Paleolithic, Mesolithic, Neolithic, and Iron Age. This provided a more accurate framework for understanding the evolution of human society in India.

4. Preservation: Wheeler was also instrumental in the preservation of several important archaeological sites, including the Sanchi Stupa and the Ajanta and Ellora caves. He recognized the importance of protecting these sites for future generations and worked to ensure their conservation.

Overall, R.E.M. Wheeler's contributions to Indian archaeology were significant and enduring. His legacy continues to shape the practice of archaeology in India and beyond.

A. Cunningham