The Research and Publication Section of Lok Virsa plays a vital role in preserving and promoting Pakistan’s intangible cultural heritage. Through extensive field surveys, ethnographic research, and village-to-village documentation, the section captures oral traditions, folk songs, romances, nursery rhymes, children's games, and life-cycle rituals such as births, marriages, and festivals—ensuring that the living heritage of Pakistan is systematically recorded and transmitted to future generations.

In addition to publishing over 200 books across genres including folk poetry, Sufi traditions, epics, cultural surveys, and rare reprints, the section actively contributes to the preservation of intangible cultural heritage by maintaining the National Inventory of ICH in collaboration with communities and stakeholders. It also serves as the focal body for liaison with UNESCO on matters related to the 2003 Convention for the Safeguarding of Intangible Cultural Heritage.

ICH Inventory