![Participants during INTACH’s workshop on manuscript preservation in Srinagar on Wednesday. - Excelsior/Shakeel Participants during INTACH’s workshop on manuscript preservation in Srinagar on Wednesday. - Excelsior/Shakeel](https://cdndailyexcelsior.b-cdn.net/wp-content/uploads/2024/03/page9-3-10-696x465.jpg)
Excelsior Correspondent
Srinagar, Mar 27: In an effort to safeguard Kashmir’s rich cultural legacy, the INTACH Kashmir Chapter today organized a workshop focused on manuscript conservation and preservation.
Held at INTACH’s Training Hall, the event aimed to raise awareness about the significance of preserving the region’s invaluable manuscripts.
The workshop highlighted the critical importance of preserving manuscripts as cultural artifacts that offer insights into Kashmir’s traditional knowledge systems, culture, and heritage.
Many custodians of these manuscripts lack a comprehensive understanding of their historical and cultural significance, making it imperative to educate and involve the community in conservation efforts, the organizers said.
Underlining the urgency of protection, the workshop emphasized that manuscripts contain a wealth of knowledge spanning literature, science, religion, and philosophy.
“Without proper conservation, this knowledge could be lost forever due to degradation over time.”
The workshop featured presentations by experts, including M. Saleem Beg, Convener & Head of INTACH, J&K Chapter, who covered topics such as types of manuscripts found in the region, conservation challenges, and the services offered by INTACH Kashmir.
It is pertinent to mention that INTACH Kashmir provides vital conservation services such as cleaning, repair, and restoration of damaged manuscripts, along with offering archival boxes made of acid-free mount boards for optimal storage. Furthermore, it conducts training programs on basic manuscript care and handling.