Mysuru: The Department of Archaeology, Museums and Heritage has enacted a Law for conservation of rare ancient manuscripts on a range of subjects written on Palm Leaf, Birch Bark, Clothes or Leather. 

The Karnataka Jnana Bhandar Manuscripts and Digitisation Act, 2026 (Karnataka Act No. 25 of 2026) is a landmark legislation passed to carry out survey, conserve and digitise ancient manuscripts across the State. It mandates the creation of the Karnataka Manuscripts Authority and sets rigorous rules to safeguard the region’s invaluable literacy and traditional knowledge. The Act, which has been published in Karnataka Gazette Extra-ordinary No.266 in Part-IVA on Apr. 9, 2026, has come into effect from May 24, 2026. 

As per the Act, any individual or organisation has to compulsorily provide details of the manuscripts that they possess or find, within one year. Also such manuscripts should not be damaged or distorted intentionally or destroyed or exported.  

Any violation of the provisions of the Act will lead to imprisonment up to 3 years or a penalty up to Rs. 5 lakh or both, according to a press release from the Deputy Commissioner.