The National Archives of India (NAI), under the Ministry of Culture, is set to organize the exhibition “सुशासन और अभिलेख 2025” on 10th October 2025 at the Dr. Ambedkar International Centre, New Delhi. The event, part of the observance of Good Governance Month, will be inaugurated by Union Minister Shri Gajendra Singh Shekhawat at 10:00 a.m.
Showcasing Governance Through Archival Records
The exhibition highlights the integral role of cleanliness, transparency, and good governance in building a progressive society. Key initiatives like Swachh Bharat Abhiyan have not only enhanced public health but also supported the preservation of India’s archival heritage. Between 2021 and 2025, over 75,500 historically significant documents were identified and transferred to the NAI from various ministries and public sector undertakings.
The curated records underscore accountability, transparency, and effective record-keeping as foundational pillars of governance, reflecting India’s administrative evolution over the years.
Tribute to Visionary Leaders
A special section honors leaders such as Shri Atal Bihari Vajpayee, noted for inclusive growth and infrastructure development, and Dr. A.P.J. Abdul Kalam, celebrated for his contributions to science, technology, and youth empowerment. Their legacies highlight the dynamic interplay between governance and archival preservation in shaping India’s developmental journey.
Key Exhibits Across Ministries
The exhibition features valuable records from multiple ministries:
- President’s Secretariat: Records on General S.H.F.J. Manekshaw’s elevation to Field Marshal and ceremonial documents.
- Election Commission of India: Introduction of Electronic Voting Machines (EVMs) and electoral reforms.
- Ministry of Home Affairs: Vijay Diwas celebrations and Panchayati Raj developments.
- Ministry of Power: Major infrastructure projects such as the Tehri Dam and Sardar Sarovar Dam.
- Other Ministries: Parliamentary affairs, commerce, external affairs, law and justice, Jal Shakti, railways, and NAI records highlighting legislative reforms, trade agreements, water resource management, diplomacy, and railway innovations.
These exhibits collectively narrate India’s governance, nation-building, and public service journey through archival documentation.
About the National Archives of India
Established on 11th March 1891 in Kolkata as the Imperial Record Department, the NAI was relocated to New Delhi in 1937. Its iconic building, designed by Sir Edwin Lutyens in 1926, serves as the nodal agency for the implementation of the Public Records Act, 1993, and Public Records Rules, 1997.
Currently, the NAI holds over 34 crore pages of public records, including official files, manuscripts, maps, treaties, census reports, parliamentary debates, and rare documents in Sanskrit, Persian, Odia, and other languages. These archives preserve India’s administrative and cultural heritage for future generations.
Exhibition Highlights
“सुशासन और अभिलेख 2025” stands as a tribute to India’s enduring commitment to clean governance, institutional transparency, and archival preservation—pillars that strengthen democracy and promote a more accountable society. The exhibition offers a unique opportunity for citizens to engage with India’s governance history through its preserved records.
