India Launches Gyan Bharatam to Preserve Manuscript Heritage
The Government of India has unveiled Gyan Bharatam, a groundbreaking initiative from the Ministry of Culture (MoC), designed to uncover, protect, and preserve the nation’s rich manuscript heritage. Announced during the Union Budget for 2025-26, this initiative aims to safeguard invaluable historical documents and texts that represent India’s diverse cultural landscape.
Financial Backing for Manuscript Preservation
To bolster this initiative, the Standing Finance Committee (SFC) has allocated a substantial budget of Rs. 491.66 crore for the years 2025 to 2031. This funding will support various activities related to manuscripts, such as surveying and registering existing works, building a strong technological framework, and fostering partnerships. Other key elements include documentation, conservation, digitization, and the publication of manuscripts, as well as capacity building and research.
Technological Advancements in Archaeology
In addition to manuscript preservation, the Archaeological Survey of India (ASI) is also prioritizing technological innovation in its exploration and excavation efforts. Advanced tools such as Light Detection and Ranging (LiDAR), Ground Penetrating Radar (GPR), and drone surveys are now standard practice. Sites like Rajgir in Bihar, Rakhigarhi in Haryana, Bhismaknagar in Arunachal Pradesh, and Warangal Fort in Telangana have all benefited from these cutting-edge technologies, applied strategically before excavation begins.
Protecting Cultural Heritage from Encroachments
The ASI is committed to ensuring the integrity of Centrally Protected Monuments across India. Robust legal measures are in place to prevent encroachments, particularly in states like Maharashtra, Madhya Pradesh, and Andhra Pradesh. The organization conducts regular inspections, issues notices to halt unauthorized constructions, and takes action under various legislative frameworks, including the Ancient Monuments and Archaeological Sites and Remains Act of 1958.
Engaging the Community through Adopt A Heritage 2.0
In September 2023, the ASI launched the Adopt A Heritage 2.0 program. This initiative encourages public and private sector organizations, NGOs, trusts, and societies to enhance the visitor experience at protected monuments of national importance. Stakeholders can contribute by providing essential tourist amenities such as washrooms, drinking water facilities, childcare rooms, benches, pathways, and signage, all under the guidance of the ASI.
Digitizing the Nation’s Archives
Furthermore, the National Archives of India (NAI) is making strides in its digitization efforts through the online portal Abhilekh-Patal. This initiative aims to democratize access to the country’s documentary heritage. As of February 2026, the portal features approximately 73 million reference media, 38 million digitized records, and over 1.82 billion pages, attracting nearly 188,000 unique visitors and over 35,000 registered users.
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