The Walled City of Lahore Authority (WCLA) successfully conducted another session of its “Meet the Expert” lecture series at Akbari Mahal Kutub Khana & Archives. The seminar, titled “Princely State Archives,” brought together researchers, students, historians, and heritage enthusiasts to explore the significance of archival records in preserving the history of former princely states of the Indian subcontinent, according to a press release issued on Monday.
Expert Lecture on Archival Importance
The session was delivered by University of Punjab Department of History and Pakistan Studies Assistant Professor Dr. Muhammad Altaf. He highlighted the historical importance of princely state archives, emphasizing their role in understanding political administration, socio-economic structures, diplomatic relations, and the cultural heritage of the region. Dr. Altaf also discussed the need for preservation, documentation, and digitization of archival collections to ensure their accessibility for future generations.
Participant Engagement and Government Support
Participants actively engaged in the discussion and appreciated the informative session, which provided valuable insights into the importance of archival preservation in historical research. WCLA Director General Najmus Saqib stated: “Preserving and promoting Punjab’s rich cultural and historical heritage remains a key priority of the Punjab government. Through educational initiatives such as the Meet the Expert series, WCLA aims to create greater public awareness, encourage academic dialogue, and foster appreciation for the province’s diverse historical legacy.”
Interactive Q&A and Future Research
The seminar concluded with an interactive question-and-answer session, where participants exchanged ideas with the speaker and discussed future research opportunities related to archival studies.
