New book creates comprehensive directory of active archives in India

A new book, “Mapping of the Archives in India,” aims to provide a “nearly encyclopedic view” of active archives and their collections across the country.

The book, written by Ramesh Chandra Gaur, director of the Kalanidhi Division of the Indira Gandhi National Center for the Arts (IGNCA), and research scholar Vismay Basu, is the result of collaboration between IGNCA and UNESCO to create a directory of archives to create in India.

Through extensive literature searches, the researchers identified 600 institutions across the country that house archives, resulting in the creation of 424 directories in the book.

“These directories include comprehensive profiles of the archives contained therein and shed light on aspects of conservation, digitization and archival perspectives. There is a dire need for archival science education in India, and these archives represent our heritage and need to be protected,” Gaur said. at the book presentation on Thursday.

In addition to basic information, thematic details such as the nature of the collection, the rarity of possessions and the availability of a research section are also included in the book.

“It is the first publication of its kind in India. Besides providing comprehensive information on archives, the book contains complete contact details for 424 archives in India, organized by state. This resource will greatly assist PhD students, researchers and academics in locating research data relevant to their interests. Furthermore, it has the potential to catalyze additional research on the current state and future trajectory of archival science in India,” Gaur added.

Speaking about the historical significance of archives in the country, Sanjay Garg, Deputy Director of the National Archives of India, emphasized “the crucial need for continued and diligent efforts to map these archives”.

“The vast heritage is at risk of being lost if there is no proper archiving mechanism. The book is a wonderful attempt to safeguard the heritage and legacy of the nation,” Garg said.

The event was also attended by former Chief Commissioner of India Satyananda Mishra and Communications and Information Advisor for South Asia UNESCO Hezekiel Dlamini.