2016 - National Archives of India | Commemorative Coin

The 3rd commemorative coin of 2016 was released to celebrate the 125 Years of National Archives of India.

The National Archives of India stands as one of the nation’s most significant custodians of history, preserving the documentary heritage of the country for over a century. Established in 1891 as the Imperial Record Department in Calcutta, it was later shifted to New Delhi in 1911 following the transfer of the capital. Over the decades, it has grown into the premier archival repository of the Government of India, safeguarding an enormous and diverse collection of records that illuminate India’s administrative, cultural, social, and political evolution.

Housed in a majestic building near the India Gate complex, the National Archives safeguard millions of files, manuscripts, maps, rare books, private papers, treaties, and other important documents that date back to the colonial era and extend into post-independence India. The preservation of such records allows researchers, students, historians, policymakers, and citizens to trace the trajectory of India’s governance and societal development. The Archives not only store materials from various ministries and departments of the Government of India but also collect and preserve private papers of eminent personalities, which further enrich the nation’s documentary heritage.

The institution plays a crucial role in promoting transparency, accountability, and public access to historical information. It adheres to rigorous scientific methods of conservation, restoration, and digitization, ensuring that fragile documents are protected for future generations. Through initiatives like the Abhilekh-Patal portal, it has moved significantly towards digital access, allowing a wider audience to explore archival treasures from anywhere in the world.

The National Archives of India also serves as a centre for research and training. It conducts professional courses in archival management, conservation techniques, and records administration, helping to develop skilled personnel who can manage and preserve records across institutions in India. Its exhibitions, publications, and outreach programmes connect the public with the nation’s archival heritage, fostering greater appreciation of India’s historical journey.

As a repository of memory and a guardian of truth, the National Archives of India continues to play a vital role in strengthening democratic values. By protecting the past and making it accessible, it ensures that future generations inherit not just records, but the wisdom, struggles, and achievements that have shaped the nation.

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