Vol. 2, Issue 2, Part A (2025)

Background: Goa possesses a remarkable manuscript heritage that reflects a unique blend of indigenous and colonial influences. Manuscripts in languages such as Sanskrit, Konkani, Marathi, Portuguese, Latin, and Arabic cover diverse fields like religion, philosophy, Ayurveda, law, governance, and literature. However, a significant portion remains undocumented, uncatalogued, and vulnerable to environmental threats and neglect.
Aim To evaluate and develop effective strategies for the conservation of manuscripts in Goa, aiming on the challenges posed by the region's high humidity and tropical climate.
Objectives To assess the current condition of manuscripts preserved in public and private collections in Goa. To identify environmental and biological factors (like humidity, temperature, mold, and pests) affecting manuscript conservation in coastal regions. To evaluate existing preservation methods and facilities used in Goan libraries, archives, and museums. To recommend practical and cost-effective conservation techniques suitable for the humid tropical climate of Goa. To promote awareness and capacity building among conservator and scholars on the scientific preservation of manuscripts. To encourage digitization and documentation as part of a long-standing preservation strategy.
Methods: This study involved a field survey of major repositories, including state libraries, church archives, temples, and private collections. Institutional practices were reviewed through site visits and interviews with curators and custodians. Challenges related to environmental conditions, funding, expertise, and access were systematically documented and analysed.
Key Findings: Goa’s manuscripts are dispersed across public institutions and private holdings, many of which lack systematic cataloguing and digitization. High humidity, biological threats, and limited conservation infrastructure pose significant risks to manuscript survival. Institutional collaboration is limited and there is a shortage of trained conservators fluent in the region’s multi-lingual scripts. Notable efforts by institutions like the Goa State Central Library and the Xavier Centre of Historical Research show promise, but broader coordination is lacking.
Discussion: Strengthen local and national initiatives to catalogue, digitize, and scientifically conserve manuscripts. Develop targeted training programmes in manuscriptology and conservation. Foster institutional and community partnerships to ensure sustained preservation efforts.
Conclusion: The manuscript collections of Goa constitute a vital part of India’s pluralistic cultural heritage. Coordinated conservation strategies, increased scholarly engagement, and support from initiatives like the National Mission for Manuscripts are crucial to safeguard these invaluable cultural assets for future generations.