Photo Courtesy: India Today Group
Imphal: Manipur Chief Minister Yumnam Khemchand Singh called for a massive effort to save the state's ancient manuscripts and indigenous script on September 15. He spoke at the 44th Archives Week Celebration and Records Exhibition-2026. The event took place at the Manipur State Archives Complex in Keishampat, Imphal. The Department of Art and Culture hosted the gathering.
Khemchand praised citizens who kept family manuscripts safe in their homes. He said these documents reveal the scientific roots of Manipur. They cover everything from medicinal plants and house architecture to royal chronicles. The Chief Minister emphasized that these records build the foundation of local society. "These historical traits form the foundation of Manipuri society," Khemchand said.
The government plans to pay people who hold onto these old records. Khemchand told the Art and Culture Commissioner to send a proposal to the State Cabinet. He wants to move fast. He noted that Manipur is the only state in Northeast India with its own unique script.
During the event, the Chief Minister inaugurated a new stack room building. He also started a teaching program for archaic scripts. He released a new publication titled Colonial Tour Records of Manipur. The exhibition featured contributions from Nongmaithem Phulendro Meitei, Thoudam Bimolchandra Singh, Laisom Hemjit, Yengkhom Amuthoi Meitei, and Chingakham Dorendro.
History matters here. Khemchand pointed out that Manipur launched Asia's first democratic government on October 18, 1948. Attendees included Tourism Minister Kh Loken Singh and Art and Culture Secretary N Praveen Singh. The state wants these milestones saved for future generations.
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