District Administration Pulwama today organised a comprehensive training programme at Town Hall Pulwama on the implementation of Mission Gyan Bharatam in the district.
Mission Gyan Bharatam is a flagship initiative of the Government of India aimed at digitisation and preservation of manuscripts across the country. The mission seeks to establish a National Digital Repository to facilitate seamless access, dissemination, and long-term preservation of India’s rich intellectual and cultural heritage.
The training programme was attended by Additional Deputy Commissioner, Tral, Sajid YehayaNaqash, who is also the District Nodal officer for the mission. On the occasion, ADC highlighted the significance of the mission in preserving the rich cultural and intellectual legacy of the country. He stressed upon the field functionaries to carry out the survey with utmost dedication, sincerity and responsibility, strictly adhering to the prescribed guidelines.
The training session was conducted by Prof. Dr. Jehangir Iqbal, Head, Department of Persian, University of Kashmir and Coordinator, Gyan Bharatam J&K.
The session was attended by surveyors designated for the special household survey to be conducted for identification and documentation of manuscripts in line with the objectives of the National Manuscript Survey under the mission.
During the session, Dr. Iqbal delivered a detailed presentation outlining the objectives, methodology and field-level execution of the survey. He elaborated on the process of identifying manuscripts, their documentation, cataloguing and digitisation, and the importance of developing a comprehensive national database through standardized digital formats.
A hands-on training component was also conducted wherein the surveyors were familiarised with survey protocols, data collection techniques, reporting formats and coordination mechanisms. Emphasis was laid on ensuring accuracy, consistency and timely reporting, alongside maintaining proper communication with local stakeholders and custodians of manuscripts.
Highlighting the importance and historical value of manuscripts, Dr. Iqbal urged the surveyors to handle such materials with utmost care, while maintaining the dignity and sanctity of cultural heritage. He also sensitised the participants about ethical guidelines, including the need for cultural sensitivity and obtaining necessary permissions during the survey process.
During the session, he also provided detailed insights into the usage and functioning of the Gyan Bharatam survey application, including data entry and uploading of images for effective implementation.
Among others, the programme was attended by Principal, Government Degree College for Boys Pulwama; Principal Government Degree College for Women Pulwama; Assistant Commissioner Panchayat Pulwama; Block Development Officers and other concerned officers.
