Prime Minister Narendra Modi launched the Gyan Bharatam Portal in September 2025 during the International Conference on Gyan Bharatam in New Delhi. The portal seeks to digitise, catalogue, and preserve India’s vast manuscript heritage , making it accessible worldwide and safeguarding it from intellectual piracy.
Mission and Objectives
Announced in the 2025 Budget session, the Gyan Bharatam Mission aims to build a central digital repository of manuscripts in over 80 languages . It will enable scholars, institutions, and the public to access rare works while promoting international collaboration in preservation and research.
India’s Manuscript Wealth
India has the largest collection of manuscripts in the world , covering subjects like philosophy, science, medicine, astronomy, architecture, and art. Notable examples include the Arthashastra , Buddhist texts from Sarnath, Ayurvedic treatises like the Charaka Samhita , and the Bakhshali manuscript , which demonstrates the early use of zero.
Knowledge Traditions
The initiative reflects India’s knowledge framework based on preservation, innovation, addition, and adaptation . From oral traditions like the Vedas to advancements in Ayurveda and metallurgy, manuscripts represent centuries of intellectual debate and cultural evolution.
Institutional and Global Role
Leading libraries such as the Asiatic Society of Kolkata and Saraswati Mahal Library are key partners, with over 10 lakh manuscripts digitised so far . India is also working with global institutions, including universities in Thailand and Vietnam, to train scholars in ancient languages and repatriate manuscripts from countries like Mongolia and Japan.
Technology and Youth Engagement
The mission uses AI and advanced digital tools to accelerate digitisation. With young people forming 70% of contributors , the project connects India’s heritage with global creative and cultural industries valued at $2.5 trillion . Universities are being encouraged to take active roles in research and dissemination.
Cultural Diplomacy
By strengthening manuscript preservation and repatriating cultural artefacts, India is positioning itself as a custodian of world heritage . The Ministry of Culture leads the effort, emphasising not only preservation but also cultural diplomacy and global knowledge sharing.