Committee Expresses Concern Over National Library’s Condition, Directs Faster Digitization of Rare Manuscripts and Greater Representation of Saraiki and South Punjab Heritage
Islamabad (Izhar Khan Niazi): The National Assembly Standing Committee on National Heritage and Culture met at Parliament House under the chairpersonship of Syeda Nosheen Iftikhar, expressing serious concern over the deteriorating condition of the National Library of Pakistan and directing the Ministry to take immediate administrative measures to improve its facilities, management, and public services.
The committee also emphasized the need to further strengthen Pakistan’s cultural institutions, accelerate the digitization of the country’s literary heritage, and promote the cultural traditions of all regions, with particular focus on South Punjab and Saraiki culture.
While reviewing progress on its previous recommendations, the Ministry informed the committee that significant advancements had been made in improving the regulatory and legal framework. Several rules have already been approved, while the remaining proposals are currently under consideration by the National Assembly.
During a briefing on the National Library of Pakistan, the committee appreciated the ongoing digitization efforts despite financial constraints. However, members expressed dissatisfaction over poor cleanliness, inadequate facilities, unreliable internet connectivity, aging infrastructure, and administrative shortcomings. The committee directed the Ministry to address these issues on a priority basis and submit a detailed report at the next meeting covering visitor statistics, staffing levels, vacant positions, library memberships, and internally generated revenue.
The committee also acknowledged the National Library’s role in preserving rare manuscripts, legal deposit publications, ISBN registration, and Pakistan’s literary heritage. Members called for accelerating the digitization of rare books and manuscripts while improving public access to research resources.
The meeting also included a detailed briefing on the representation of Saraiki and South Punjab’s cultural heritage at the National Heritage Museum. While appreciating the museum’s efforts, the committee directed that cultural exhibitions be expanded, cooperation among cultural institutions be strengthened, and greater opportunities be provided for artisans, craftsmen, and young people to showcase their cultural talents.
The Pakistan National Council of the Arts (PNCA) also briefed the committee on its activities relating to music, theatre, visual arts, cultural programmes, workshops, exhibitions, and initiatives aimed at nurturing young talent. The committee appreciated PNCA’s contribution to the promotion of the arts and emphasized the need to create more opportunities for emerging artists while encouraging greater public participation in cultural activities.
The committee reaffirmed its commitment to preserving Pakistan’s literary and cultural heritage by strengthening cultural institutions, implementing effective reforms, improving governance, ensuring transparent use of resources, and expanding public access to educational and cultural facilities.
The meeting was attended by Shaista Khan, Shehnaz Saleem Malik, Rabia Naseem Farooqi, Samar Haroon Bilour, Saeeda Jamshed, Ghazala Anjum, Saira Tarrar, Naeema Kanwal, Sanjay Parwani, Naeema Kishwar Khan, Muhammad Tufail, as well as the Secretary of the Ministry of National Heritage and Culture and other senior government officials.