Epigraphy

The Government of Andhra Pradesh had officially started the epigraphy section on 2^nd December, 1964 in the Department of Archaeology and Museums. The main basis of epigraphy section is to collect lithic, copper plate inscriptions, Palm leaf manuscripts and paper manuscripts by conducting village to village survey in the districts and to publish the collected material.

During epigraphical survey the Department of Archaeology and Museums has collected 5375 estampages belong to the different dynasties and which had ruled the Andhradesa. Which are primary sources for reconstructing the history of Andhra Pradesh. So far the Department has published inscriptions collected from three districts namely Kadapa in three volumes, Kurnool in two volumes, Anantapur one volume.

Palm Leaf Manuscripts

The Department has collected palm leaf manuscripts belong to the different periods. The life of the Palm leaf manuscripts is only 300 years. So, the scholars rewrite these manuscripts. The department has been preserving 4,741 palm leaf manuscripts at ASP Govt. Museum and R.I., Kakinada and RSR Govt. Museum, Rajahmundry. 200 manuscripts preserved in Dr. YSR AP State Museum, Hyderabad.

Paper Manuscripts

In olden days people used the handmade paper nearly 200 years ago. In those days, Itihasas, Ayurveda and other traditional and devotional writings were available on paper manuscripts. Now, 150 years old Paper manuscripts are available.

The following statement showing the number of inscriptions collected on district wise so far.