Gyan Bharat Mission Background: Under the Gyan Bharat Mission, a national manuscript survey has been launched across all states and Union Territories with the aim of identifying and documenting manuscripts, repositories, and custodians. Over 1.19 crore manuscripts have been identified during this survey. About the Gyan Bharat Mission The Gyan Bharat Mission aims to identify, document, preserve, digitize, and promote India's manuscript heritage using a systematic and technology-driven approach. Its primary objective is to create a 'National Digital Repository'—a centralized digital platform that facilitates easy access to manuscripts for researchers and the general public worldwide. Comprising manuscripts collected from universities, monasteries, libraries, and research institutions, this national digital repository is set to become India's largest digital knowledge archive. The mission also encourages research, translation, comparative studies, and multidisciplinary academic collaboration based on these manuscripts. Institutional Collaboration and MoUs To facilitate the preservation, maintenance, and digitization of manuscripts, the project will sign Memorandums of Understanding (MoUs) with approximately 20 institutions on October 25, 2025. According to the Ministry of Culture, another 30 institutions are expected to sign similar agreements subsequently. These partnerships will encompass regional and national manuscript repositories across India. Project Support The project will provide technical guidance, financial support, and regular monitoring. Each participating institution will establish a 'Gnana Bharat' unit staffed by experts specializing in linguistics, preservation, digitization, and research. These units will coordinate and execute the project's activities. Funding and Financial Monitoring Funds will be released in two installments: First installment (70%) – Upon approval of the annual work plan and budget. Second installment (30%) – Following the submission of progress reports, utilization certificates, and quality checks, and upon approval by third-party auditors. This system ensures transparency and the timely completion of tasks. Focus Areas and Key Activities Survey and Listing – Identifying and cataloging manuscripts across…
