The Bakhshali Manuscript, an ancient mathematical text inscribed on birch bark, is one of the earliest known instances of the use of zero. Dating back to the third or fourth century AD, this significant artifact is currently housed in the Bodleian Libraries of the University of Oxford.
To safeguard India's cultural heritage, the government plans to introduce the National Manuscripts Bill, 2023, during the Winter Session of Parliament. This legislation aims to systematically document and catalogue heritage texts, both within India and abroad.
The bill proposes the establishment of the National Manuscripts Authority (NMA), a 10-member body responsible for policy-making regarding the digitization, preservation, conservation, editing, and publication of manuscripts.
India is home to approximately 10 million manuscripts written in 80 ancient scripts, including Brahmi, Kushan, Gaudi, Lepcha, and Maithili. The National Mission for Manuscripts (NMM), an autonomous entity under the Ministry of Culture, plays a vital role in safeguarding this vast repository. These manuscripts encompass a wide range of themes, including history, religion, literature, astrology, and agriculture.
The NMA will have the authority of a civil court, overseeing access to manuscripts and investigating instances of theft or damage. By collaborating with universities and educational institutions, the NMA will facilitate fellowships and scholarships for manuscript studies. Furthermore, it will establish a dedicated digital portal for indexing, cataloging, and sharing manuscript copies. The NMA will also have the power to acquire manuscripts from private owners, with compensation determined by an expert committee.
Professor Anirban Dash, Director of NMM, highlights the need to connect manuscript studies with livelihood to restore their cultural significance. He asserts that documenting Indian manuscripts abroad will enhance global interest in this rich heritage. So far, the NMM has digitized 3.3 lakh manuscripts, comprising approximately 3.1 crore folios, with a portion available online for public engagement.
In conclusion, the National Manuscripts Bill, 2023 offers a comprehensive strategy for preserving and promoting India's diverse and invaluable manuscript heritage. Through the establishment of the NMA and various digital initiatives, India aims to ensure that its historical and cultural treasures are both protected and accessible to a broader audience.
Q1. What is the significance of the Bakhshali Manuscript?
Answer: The Bakhshali Manuscript is significant as it represents an early use of zero in mathematical texts, dating back to the third or fourth century AD, showcasing India's contribution to mathematics.
Q2. What is the aim of the National Manuscripts Bill, 2023?
Answer: The National Manuscripts Bill, 2023 aims to document and catalogue India's heritage texts, establish the National Manuscripts Authority, and enhance the preservation of manuscripts.
Q3. How many manuscripts does India possess?
Answer: India boasts around 10 million manuscripts written in various ancient scripts, covering diverse themes such as history, religion, and literature.
Q4. What are the powers of the National Manuscripts Authority?
Answer: The NMA has the authority to manage manuscript access, investigate thefts, acquire manuscripts, and collaborate with educational institutions for manuscript studies.
Q5. How is the National Mission for Manuscripts contributing to preservation?
Answer: The NMM digitizes manuscripts, making part of its collection accessible online and ensuring public engagement while safeguarding India's manuscript heritage.
Question 1: What does the National Manuscripts Bill, 2023 aim to establish?
A) National Manuscripts Authority
B) National Library of India
C) Manuscript Preservation Society
D) Digital Manuscript Archive
Correct Answer: A
Question 2: Which ancient text is an early example of the use of zero?
A) Bakhshali Manuscript
B) Rigveda
C) Arthashastra
D) Manusmriti
Correct Answer: A
Question 3: How many members will the National Manuscripts Authority consist of?
A) 5
B) 10
C) 15
D) 20
Correct Answer: B
Question 4: Which government body oversees the National Mission for Manuscripts?
A) Ministry of Culture
B) Ministry of Education
C) Ministry of Home Affairs
D) Ministry of External Affairs
Correct Answer: A
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