IMPHAL | Manipur Chief Minister Yumnam Khemchand Singh on Tuesday called for greater efforts to preserve the state’s ancient manuscripts, archival records and indigenous script, saying they are vital to understanding its history and civilisational heritage.

Khemchand was speaking at the 44th Archives Week Celebration and Records Exhibition 2026 at the Manipur State Archives Complex in Keishampat, Imphal. The event was organised by the Department of Art & Culture.

The Chief Minister praised members of the public who had preserved ancient documents and manuscripts in their homes and later contributed them to the archives. He said their efforts reflected a commitment to safeguarding Manipur’s cultural heritage.

Khemchand said the state’s traditional texts, known as Puyas, contain valuable information on its society and history, including archaeological remains, traditional architecture, lifestyles, royal chronicles, stories and medicinal knowledge.

He said the records also reflected the scientific character of Manipur’s traditional knowledge systems and provided important insights into the state’s historical identity. “These historical traits form the foundation of Manipuri society,” Khemchand said, stressing the importance of preserving archival material for future generations.

The Chief Minister also highlighted the significance of Manipur’s indigenous script and called its preservation a matter of pride for the state. Government considers incentives for manuscript custodians

Khemchand said the government was considering incentives for individuals who had preserved and protected ancient manuscripts and other historical records over the years. He said he had discussed the proposal with the Art & Culture Minister and Commissioner and directed the department to prepare a proposal for consideration by the state Cabinet.

The government, he added, would extend necessary support to take the initiative forward. Referring to Manipur’s political history, Khemchand said the state’s archival records documented significant milestones, including what he described as Asia’s first democratic form of government in 1948.

During the programme, the Chief Minister inaugurated a new stack room building at the Manipur State Archives and launched a Reading and Teaching Programme on old scripts. He also released the 2026 archival publication Colonial Tour Records of Manipur and inaugurated an exhibition featuring documents and other materials related to the state’s history and heritage.

Manuscripts displayed at the exhibition included contributions from Nongmaithem Phulendro Meitei, Thoudam Bimolchandra Singh, Laisom Hemjit, Yengkhom Amuthoi Meitei and Chingakham Dorendro.Art & Culture and Tourism Minister Kh Loken Singh, Art & Culture Secretary N Praveen Singh, department officials, archival custodians, manuscript donors and other invitees attended the event.