Unveiling Bihar’s Manuscript Legacy: Assessing the Role of the National Mission for Manuscripts Uraon Amit1,*, Sinha Manoj Kumar2 1Research Scholar, Dept. of Library and Information Science, Assam University (A Central University), Silchar-788 011 2Dept. of Library and Information Science, Assam University (A Central University), Silchar-788 011 *Corresponding Author: Amit Uraon, amitbhu007@gmail.com
Online Published on 17 July, 2024. Abstract Today’s societal reforms are unprecedented, attributed to the hard work of our ancestors, serving as inspiration. The present study delves into the crucial task of safeguarding Bihar’s rich documentary heritage, particularly its invaluable manuscripts serving as primary sources of traditional knowledge. Acknowledging the significant contributions of past generations to our society, the paper underscores the importance of conserving these manuscripts to understand Bihar’s history and culture. The study focuses on the contribution of the National Mission for Manuscripts (NMM) in safeguarding legacy documents across Bihar. Drawing upon secondary literature and manuscripts from various repositories, the research adopts a descriptive approach to critically analyze the NMM’s initiatives. The study’s findings highlight NMM’s varied efforts to preserve Bihar’s documentary heritage: surveying, documenting, conserving, digitizing, cataloging, and publishing manuscripts. It conducts nationwide programs, seminars, and workshops for awareness and training. NMM’s network spans Manuscript Resource Centres, Conservation Centres, Partner Centres, and Conservation Partner Centres. Nine centers in Bihar actively contribute to preservation. The study underscores NMM’s pivotal role in safeguarding Bihar’s heritage through collaborative endeavors, ensuring the preservation of cultural assets for posterity. Top Keywords Cultural Heritage, Rare Manuscript, Preventive Conservation, Digital Preservation, National Mission for Manuscripts (NMM), Bihar. Top |