(a) whether rare books and manuscripts are recently destroyed in a blaze at the Lalit Kala Academy, Delhi;
(b) if so, the reasons therefor and the estimated loss incurred thereto; and
(c) steps taken to offset the irreparable loss and the preventive steps taken to ensure such incidents do not occur in future?
MINISTER OF STATE FOR PLANNING AND PARLIAMENTARY AFFAIRS (SHRI V. NARAYANASAMY)
(a) Yes, Sir. Some rare books have been recently destroyed in a blaze at the Lalit Kala
Academy campus, Delhi during an exhibition organized by Delhi Public Library.
(b) The accidental fire engulfed the entire structure of Exhibition and books were
destroyed. The estimated loss has not been calculated. A Committee of Experts has been
asked to evaluate cost of books destroyed in the fire.
(c) The Committee of Experts is assisting in procuring/resurrecting copies of the books.
As a preventive measure, only photocopies of rare books may be displayed in future
Exhibitions.