Clean-up campaign unveils 10,000 historical files; National Archives to host major exhibition: Report

Launched in 2021, the special cleanliness campaign, running from October 2 to October 31 each year, aimed to spruce up government offices and streamline record-keeping.

Over the past three years, a series of cleanliness drives have unearthed a treasure trove of historical documents in Union government offices, leading to their rediscovery and potential public display. According to The Indian Express, around 10,000 significant files have been handed over to the National Archives of India (NAI) following these annual campaigns under the Swachh Bharat Mission.

Among these rediscovered intriguing records like the 1911 documents detailing the British decision to move the capital from Calcutta to New Delhi, post-Independence administrative reforms, and fascinating insights into how corruption cases against Indian Civil Service officers were managed. One particularly noteworthy find is the file related to the establishment of the crucial Establishment Officer post, which oversees senior appointments.

Launched in 2021, the special cleanliness campaign, running from October 2 to October 31 each year, aimed to spruce up government offices and streamline record-keeping. The effort has not only cleared out an astonishing 96.1 lakh files but also freed up 355.5 lakh square feet of space. This initiative has even generated a hefty revenue of Rs 1,162.49 crore from the sale of scrap, including metals and old electronics.

According to V Srinivas, Secretary of the Department of Administrative Reforms and Public Grievances (DARPG), the campaigns have proved invaluable for preserving historical records. He revealed to The Indian Express that DARPG and NAI are planning an exhibition to showcase some of these fascinating documents next month.

Among the conserved documents are the report of the Administrative Reforms Commission from 1966, which proposed significant public administration changes, and the 1964 Santhanam Committee report on preventing corruption. These records are set to offer a glimpse into the evolution of India’s administrative landscape.

Despite regulations requiring government records older than 25 years to be transferred to the NAI, many departments had not complied over the years. At a recent meeting, NAI Director General Arun Singhal emphasized the need for immediate appointment of records officers across ministries to ensure proper documentation.

As preparations ramp up for the fourth special campaign starting October 2, the focus will not only be on physical cleanliness but also on resolving pending grievances and references. DARPG has streamlined grievance handling, aiming to address them within 21 days instead of the previous 30-day target.