Vijayawada: The Archaeological Survey of India (ASI) has launched an extensive epigraphical survey in the Nallamala forest region to identify and document ancient inscriptions that could reveal the historical, social and cultural significance of the area between the 11th and 16th centuries CE.The survey is being carried out under heightened security arrangements in coordination with forest officials, as the teams enter the tiger reserve of the Nallamala forest. The ASI’s epigraphy wing has taken up the study to locate more stone inscriptions, copper plates and other historical records believed to be scattered across the forest region, particularly along the ancient routes leading towards Srisailam.ASI director (epigraphy) K Munirathnam Reddy said that the findings could provide valuable information about rulers, temple activities, land grants and developmental works undertaken centuries ago. He said the survey was aimed at scientifically documenting inscriptions available in the Nallamala region and preserving the historical information contained in them. “We got information about presence of several inscriptions in the Nallamala forest area from the local tribals. It is important to identify them, study their contents and preserve the details for future generations. The inscriptions may reveal information about the properties donated to temples, the administrative systems of ancient rulers and the development activities carried out by them,” he said.The survey teams are focusing on forest stretches spread across parts of Kurnool, Nandyal, Prakasam and Palnadu districts. The special teams said some inscriptions have already been noticed along pathways used by pilgrims and travellers heading towards Srisailam. The ASI is now working to locate additional inscriptions and analyse their historical importance.Munirathnam Reddy said this is the first major survey of its kind being conducted by the ASI in the Nallamala forest tiger reserve region. “The inscriptions found here can throw light on the history of the region and the contributions made by different dynasties. A detailed study will help us understand the evolution of temples, settlements and cultural practices in the area,” he added.The Nallamala forests have historically served as an important route to the Srisailam temple. Several rulers who visited the region constructed facilities for pilgrims, including rest houses, mandapams, water tanks and other structures. Many of these rulers also left behind inscriptions recording their contributions and religious grants.The ASI officials believe that a systematic survey could bring to light several unknown historical details buried in the forest landscape. The inscriptions may also help establish links between ancient rulers and the development of religious centres in the region.Forest department officials are extending support to the ASI team by facilitating access to interior areas and ensuring safety during the survey operations. The exercise is expected to continue for next two days as officials wanted to examine more locations for inscriptions and archaeological evidence.