Punjab’s text-based archival records will be available in audio format; Archives deptt to undergo major transformation: Sond
Kanwar Inder Singh/ royalpatiala.in News/ June 24,2025
Punjab’s Minister for Tourism and Cultural Affairs, Tarunpreet Singh Sond, today announced a major revamp of the Punjab State Archives Department in Patiala, a key institution that safeguards the rich heritage of the state. The transformation is being carried out under the leadership of Chief Minister Bhagwant Singh Mann.
During an inspection of the Archives Department, Sond said, “It is unfortunate that previous governments did not prioritize heritage preservation. However, this government is committed to reviving and reforming this vital institution. Necessary upgrades will begin within this week itself.”
Highlighting the department’s achievements, the Minister informed that the Archives Department has successfully preserved nearly 10 lakh rare and ancient records, including centuries-old versions of Sri Guru Granth Sahib, royal decrees, manuscripts, official files, Punjab and Central government gazettes, rare books, paintings, and maps. It also houses valuable documents from eight princely states.
He added that approximately 6 crore pages from these records have already been digitized under the Punjab Digital Library Project, ensuring long-term preservation and easier access for future generations. In the next step, Punjab’s text-based archival records will be available in audio format that will help the researchers or anyone who can listen the record, document.
Earlier, Sond held a review meeting with senior journalist Jatinder Pannu, who offered valuable suggestions, as well as with Patiala Deputy Commissioner Dr. Preeti Yadav, Department Director Sanjeev Tiwari, Punjab Development Commission member Vaibhav Maheshwari, and department staff.
The Minister directed the Deputy Commissioner and the Director to immediately initiate cleanliness and maintenance drives, and to ensure the provision of air conditioning units and proper furniture. He also reviewed the ongoing digitization efforts being carried out by the Punjab Digital Library team.
Sond, who also holds the portfolios of Investment Promotion, Hospitality, Rural Development & Panchayats, Labour, and Industries & Commerce, lauded the department staff for their dedication and said that all required infrastructure will be provided shortly to establish an international-standard, research-friendly environment for visiting scholars, historians, and researchers from across the globe.
Punjab’s text-based archival records will be available in audio format; Archives deptt to undergo major transformation: Sond citing the government’s commitment to heritage conservation, also mentioned the restoration of Diwan Todar Mal’s Jahazi Haveli in Fatehgarh Sahib. In response to a media query, he confirmed that Patiala’s Sheesh Mahal and the adjoining Medal Gallery will soon be reopened to the public.
Those present on the occasion included Superintendent of Archives Department Kulwinder Kaur, Archives Patiala Incharge Surinderpal Singh, District Tourist Officer Hardeep Singh, and representatives from the Punjab Digital Library, Dalvir Singh and Amandeep Singh, among other officials.
