Govt digitizes 4m historical records to preserve Pakistan’s heritage

August 11, 2026 (MLN): The government has digitized nearly 4m historical records as part of an ongoing drive to modernize the National Archives of Pakistan (NAP) and preserve the country’s documentary heritage.

Documents available with Wealth Pakistan show that the initiative is being implemented under the Public Sector Development Programme (PSDP) project titled “Strengthening & Modernizing National Archives of Pakistan.”

Under the project, 50,000 historical records have also been restored to protect them from deterioration and ensure their preservation for future generations, according to APP.

The digitization programme has so far covered 2.7m pages comprising rare books, manuscripts, newspapers and other historically significant documents.

A range of archival materials, including photographs, microfilm rolls, audio recordings and video recordings, has also been converted into digital formats.

The government is further establishing a dedicated IT Wing at the National Archives to support the digital preservation process and improve the management of archival data.

The modernization initiative is expected to expand public access to historical material by enabling researchers, policymakers and other users to access archival records more efficiently through digital platforms.

The project also aims to reduce the risk of permanent loss or damage to valuable historical documents caused by aging, physical deterioration and natural disasters.

The initiative forms part of broader efforts to modernize archival management through technology while preserving Pakistan’s historical and documentary heritage.

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