Historical Perspective

The paper has a long history dating back to 3000 BC when Egyptians made a  writing material  from beaten strips  of marsh grass “Cyperous Papyrus” The word “paper” derives from the Greek term for  papyrus plants. The paper making process was further refined by T’sai Lun of China in 105 AD.The use of paper spread from China through the Islamic world, and entered  in Europe in the early 12th century. In India , In India, the first paper industry was developed in Kashmir, established by Sultan Zainul Abedin (Shahi Khan) of Kashmir in 1417-67 AD.( Ref : Tarikh –i Kashmir). Interestingly the word “ Kagaj & Kagaz” comes from a Sanskrit word Kakri /Kagad which is equivalent to Chinese word tche  for paper.  The first mechanized paper mill was established  in 1812 at Sorampur,West Bengal. More such interesting facts  about  history of paper making are displayed  at CPPRI Paper Museum.