In 2003, the LTWA embarked upon yet another important preservation project: the digitization of the Narthang Edition of the Kangyur and Tengyur, one of the oldest and rarest manuscripts in the library.

Given the fame and greatness of His Holiness’ physical deeds, verbal teachings and mental thoughts and having thrived to its optimal extent, the LTWA feels it is time to contribute in its own way by preserving the priceless teachings and speeches.

Initiated by the Government of India in 2003 the National Mission for Manuscripts aims to survey, document, preserve and catalogue manuscripts, and provide access to these manuscripts through digitization and publication, thus promote scholarship and research. LTWA has been a partner in this program and was appointed as one of the Resource Centres. This endeavour is fully funded by the Government of India.

At present we have over 50 films of 16mm in our archive shot in 70s & 80s, capturing the Tibetan life in exile during that period. These films have some of the rare footage of the early life in exile and digitalizing them will make the valuable footages available to a wider audience and will enrich the collection of that period. Due to lack of financial resources, we have not been able to digitize them so far and with this grant, we would be able to digitize the much necessary rare footages captured in these old films.