Gyan Bharatam Mission: Preserving India's Priceless Manuscript Heritage

The ‘Gyan Bharatam Mission: India’s Manuscript Heritage’ conference is set to commence on Monday, April 22, 2024, at the prestigious Dr. Ambedkar International Centre in New Delhi. This landmark event, organized by the Indian Council of Historical Research (ICHR) in collaboration with the National Mission for Manuscripts (NMM), aims to shine a spotlight on the vast and invaluable repository of knowledge contained within India’s ancient manuscripts.

For centuries, these handwritten texts have served as the bedrock of Indian civilization, encapsulating a breathtaking array of subjects including philosophy, science, medicine, literature, art, and spirituality.

They are not merely historical relics but living testaments to the intellectual prowess and cultural richness of past generations. The conference seeks to bring together scholars, researchers, conservators, and policymakers to deliberate on the critical challenges and opportunities in the preservation, cataloging, and dissemination of this unparalleled heritage.

The inaugural session will feature an eminent lineup of speakers, including Professor Raguvendra Tanwar, the Chairman of ICHR, who will deliver the welcome address, setting the tone for the insightful discussions to follow.

Professor Sachidanand Joshi, Member Secretary of Indira Gandhi National Centre for the Arts (IGNCA), will also grace the occasion, emphasizing the broader cultural significance of manuscript preservation.

A key highlight of the conference will be the keynote address delivered by Professor (Dr.) Ramesh Chandra Gaur, Head of Kala Nidhi Division at IGNCA.

His expertise in digital humanities and library science is expected to provide valuable perspectives on leveraging modern technology for the accessibility and long-term security of manuscripts. The valedictory address will be given by Professor Umesh Ashok Kadam, Member Secretary of ICHR, who will summarize the conference’s findings and outline future initiatives.

The sessions throughout the conference will delve into various facets of manuscript studies, including epigraphy, paleography, textual criticism, conservation techniques, and the digital archiving of manuscripts.

Participants will have the opportunity to present their research, engage in vibrant discussions, and foster collaborations that are crucial for advancing the field. This collective effort is vital to ensure that India’s manuscript heritage continues to inspire and inform future generations, bridging the past with the present and charting a course for the future of knowledge.

The ‘Gyan Bharatam Mission’ is more than just a conference; it’s a clarion call to action, urging a renewed commitment to safeguard these irreplaceable cultural treasures.

It underscores the profound responsibility we bear to protect the intellectual legacy of India, ensuring that the wisdom of ages remains accessible and relevant in an ever-evolving world.