National Archives of India
National Archives of India (NAI) is the official archive of the Government of India, located in New Delhi.
Overview
The National Archives of India, established in 1891, is the custodian of the records of the Government of India and one of the most important archival institutions in South Asia. It houses a vast collection of manuscripts, documents, and records spanning from the Mughal period to the present.
Historical Context
Established in 1891 as the Imperial Records Department, it was renamed the National Archives of India after independence in 1947. The collection grew from the merger of colonial-era record repositories and subsequent acquisitions. The current building was designed by Robert Tor Russell in a Western Classical style and completed in 1927.
Features/Significance
The archives hold an extraordinary range of documents: Mughal-era farmans (imperial decrees), British East India Company records, colonial government proceedings, manuscripts in various Indian languages, and post-independence government records. Key collections include the Ashokan edict copies, medieval inscriptions, Mughal and Company paintings, and an extensive collection of palm-leaf and paper manuscripts. The National Register of Scientific and Technical Personnel is also maintained here.
Modern Status
Located on Janpath, New Delhi, the archives are open to researchers. The NAI has been undertaking digitization projects and has published several volumes of its records. It continues to serve as the primary repository for government records of India.
Verification Notes
- Established 1891 as Imperial Records Department.
- Current building: 1927, Robert Tor Russell.
- Located on Janpath, New Delhi.
- Audited against Wikipedia (September 2026).