- Under the Skill India Mission, MESC and the National Archives of India collaborate to train 1000 candidates in archival conservation, aiming to preserve and digitise historical documents
The Media and Entertainment Skills Council (MESC), under the aegis of the Ministry of Skill Development and Entrepreneurship (MSDE), launched the NSQF-Aligned Archival Conservator Programme at the Young Women Christian Association (YWCA), New Delhi in collaboration with the National Archives of India (NAI) under the Ministry of Culture. The programme will empower 1000 candidates with the necessary knowledge, expertise and technical skills to restore old and damaged documents to enable the digitisation of records.
Atul Kumar Tiwari, Secretary, Ministry of Skill Development and Entrepreneurship was present as the Chief Guest. Arun Singhal, Director General, NAI; Dr Sanjay Garg, Deputy Director, NAI and Mohit Soni, CEO, MESC were the key dignitaries at the event.
The Archival Conservator Programme aims to make the rich national documentary heritage easily accessible to all citizens of the country through the comprehensive digitization efforts led by the National Archives of India.
Through comprehensive training modules of 90 hours, practical workshops and hands-on experience, participants will gain proficiency in restoration techniques, archival best practices, metadata management and digital preservation strategies. It will also play a pivotal role in facilitating the meticulous repair and rehabilitation of 2.25 crore stored data at the NAI, fostering greater historical understanding and promoting inclusivity. It further aspires to transform historical records into digital formats ensuring widespread availability and preservation of rich heritage within two years.
The certified candidates of the programme will be well-equipped to contribute effectively to ongoing digitisation projects, improve access to historical records and ensure the long-term preservation of cultural heritage. Additionally, it will broaden the employability prospects for youth in state-level organisations and institutions, thereby, benefitting society on a larger scale. It is also aligned with the growing need for digitisation and the government’s vision to provide ease of access to citizens in the country’s archival sector.
The acquisition of essential skills will also enhance the employability of candidates at the National Archives of India and at similar state-level organisations engaged in archival digitisation efforts. Participants will further gain proficiency in restoration techniques, documentation and management of the same, positioning them as valuable assets within the archival sector.
Archival Conservator is responsible for the preservation, restoration and maintenance of historical and valuable records. These records can include a wide range of materials such as manuscripts, books, maps, photographs, audio recordings, digital files and other archival materials. The skilled conservator will play a key role in the identification of documents, maintaining records and preservative and restorative treatment of the documents.
The National Archives of India aims to create a vibrant digital repository that transcends geographical boundaries and empowers future generations with a deeper appreciation of our collective history. The programme will also emphasise the importance of maintaining the integrity, authenticity and security of records while ensuring compliance with relevant standards and guidelines.
