National Archives of India

The National Archives of India (NAI) is the principal repository of historical records of the Government of India. It is located in New Delhi, India. The NAI was established in 1891, and it has been collecting and preserving records of the Government of India ever since. The NAI’s collection includes records from the Mughal Empire, the British Raj, and the independent Government of India. The NAI’s collection is open to the public, and it is a valuable resource for researchers, historians, and students.

History and Significance
Holdings
Functions and Activities
Organisation
Right to Information

History and Significance

Established in 1891 as the Imperial Record Department, the National Archives of India (NAI) has served as the custodian of India’s enduring government records. Originally located in Kolkata, it shifted to Delhi in 1911 and currently stands at the intersection of Janpath and Kartavya Path. The NAI is the largest archival repository in South Asia, housing a vast collection categorized into public records, private papers, oriental records, cartographic records, and microfilms. These invaluable resources serve as a primary source of information for scholars, researchers, and administrators.

Holdings

The NAI boasts a staggering collection, encompassing over 3.7 million reference media files. The “Abhilekh Patal,” a digital repository launched by the NAI, facilitates online access to a significant portion of these holdings. Over 509,000 digitized records are currently available, offering a glimpse into India’s rich past. The physical archives hold public records from various government ministries and departments, along with private papers donated by individuals and organizations. The oriental records collection encompasses historical documents in languages like Arabic, Persian, Sanskrit, and Urdu. Additionally, the NAI houses a vast collection of maps and cartographic records, providing valuable insights into India’s geographical history.

Functions and Activities

The NAI fulfills a multifaceted role. It meticulously preserves the records entrusted to its care, employing sophisticated conservation techniques to ensure their longevity. The Archives Department actively acquires new material, ensuring a comprehensive historical record is maintained. To facilitate research and public engagement, the NAI provides access to its holdings through a reading room, online portals, and exhibitions. The “Museum of the National Archives” showcases a representative selection of the archives’ treasures, fostering public interest in India’s history. The NAI actively collaborates with national and international institutions, promoting archival awareness and knowledge sharing.

Organisation

The NAI functions as an Attached Office under the Ministry of Culture, Government of India. Headed by the Director General of Archives, the department oversees the implementation of the Public Records Act, 1993, ensuring the proper management and preservation of government records. The NAI has a regional office in Bhopal and three record centers located in Bhubaneswar, Jaipur, and Puducherry. This decentralized structure allows for the effective management of its vast collection and facilitates access for researchers across the country.

Right to Information

The NAI recognizes the importance of transparency and public access to information. In accordance with the Right to Information Act, 2005, the Archives Department provides a mechanism for Indian citizens to request information from public records. This ensures public accountability and empowers citizens to engage with their government’s history.

The NAI’s collection is divided into two main sections: the records of the Government of India, and the records of the private papers of eminent Indians. The records of the Government of India include records from the Mughal Empire, the British Raj, and the independent Government of India. The records of the private papers of eminent Indians include records from such figures as Mahatma Gandhi, Jawaharlal Nehru, and Indira Gandhi.

The NAI’s collection is a valuable resource for researchers, historians, and students. The NAI’s collection can be used to study the history of India, the British Raj, and the independent Government of India. The NAI’s collection can also be used to study the lives of eminent Indians.

The NAI is a valuable resource for the study of Indian history. The NAI’s collection is open to the public, and it is a valuable resource for researchers, historians, and students.

Table of Contents

FAQS

What is the National Archives of India?

What is the history of the National Archives of India?

The National Archives of India was established in 1891. The NAI was established by the British government to collect and preserve records of the Government of India. The NAI’s collection was initially housed in the Imperial Record Department in Calcutta. In 1911, the NAI’s collection was moved to New Delhi. The NAI’s collection has continued to grow since its establishment, and it now includes records from the Mughal Empire, the British Raj, and the independent Government of India.

What is the collection of the National Archives of India?

What are the services offered by the National Archives of India?

The National Archives of India offers a variety of services to the public. These services include:

Reference services: The NAI provides reference services to the public. These services include providing information about the NAI’s collection, and providing copies of records from the NAI’s collection.
Research services: The NAI provides research services to the public. These services include providing assistance with research projects, and providing access to the NAI’s collection.
Publication services: The NAI publishes a variety of materials, including catalogues of the NAI’s collection, and guides to the use of the NAI’s collection.

How can I access the National Archives of India?

The National Archives of India is located at 2, Janpath, New Delhi, India. The NAI is open to the public from 10:00 am to 5:00 pm, Monday to Friday. The NAI is closed on Saturdays, Sundays, and public holidays.

What is the purpose of the National Archives of India?

To preserve and provide access to the documentary heritage of the nation.

What type of documents does the National Archives of India hold?

It holds a wide variety of documents including manuscripts, official records, maps, photographs, and audio-visual materials.

Who can access the documents in the National Archives of India?

Researchers, scholars, and the general public can access the documents after following the necessary procedures.

How can I access documents from the National Archives of India?

You can visit the archives in person or request documents through their online portal or via mail.

Are there any restrictions on accessing certain documents?

Yes, some documents may be restricted due to their sensitive nature or legal requirements.

Can I make copies of documents from the National Archives of India?

Yes, you can request copies of documents for research purposes, subject to copyright and other restrictions.

Does the National Archives of India provide research assistance?

Yes, the archives offer research assistance to help individuals locate and access relevant documents.

What are the opening hours of the National Archives of India?

The archives are typically open to the public during regular business hours, with some exceptions for holidays or special events.

Does the National Archives of India offer educational programs?

Yes, they often conduct educational programs, workshops, and exhibitions to promote awareness of India’s documentary heritage.

How does the National Archives of India ensure the preservation of documents?

They employ various conservation techniques and facilities to safeguard the documents from deterioration over time.

MCQs

The National Archives of India was established in:

(a) 1891
(b) 1911
(c) 1947
(d) 1950

The NAI’s collection includes records from:

(a) The Mughal Empire
(b) The British Raj
(c) The independent Government of India
(d) All of the above

The NAI offers a variety of services to the public, including:

(a) Reference services
(b) Research services
(c) Publication services
(d) All of the above

Which institution is responsible for preserving the nation’s historical documents?

(a) National Library
(b) National Museum
(c) National Archives
(d) Historical Society

What type of materials are typically found in this institution?

(a) Artifacts and sculptures
(b) Rare books and manuscripts
(c) Modern literature and novels
(d) Contemporary artworks

Who can access the documents stored in this institution?

(a) Government officials only
(b) Researchers and scholars
(c) General public with permission
(d) Foreign dignitaries

Which of the following is NOT a common function of this institution?

(a) Preservation
(b) Restoration
(c) Exhibition
(d) Destruction

What restrictions might apply to accessing certain documents in this institution?

(a) Age restrictions
(b) Language barriers
(c) Security clearance
(d) None, all documents are freely accessible

How can individuals access documents from this institution?

(a) Only through physical visits
(b) Online requests
(c) Phone calls
(d) Carrier pigeon delivery

Which department is typically responsible for the conservation of documents in this institution?

(a) Legal Affairs
(b) Archives Administration
(c) Preservation and Conservation
(d) Public Relations

What educational programs might this institution offer?

(a) Cooking classes
(b) Yoga workshops
(c) History lectures
(d) Art therapy sessions

What role does technology play in the preservation of documents in this institution?

(a) No role, it’s all manual
(b) Limited role in cataloging
(c) Significant role in digitization and storage
(d) It’s solely dependent on technology

Which institution serves as a hub for historical research and study in the country?

(a) National Archives
(b) Public Library
(c) University Archives
(d) Local Historical Societies