Around 1000 records of historical significance found cleanliness drives to be exhibited
- Around 10,000 records of historical significance, including documents on the shifting of the capital to New Delhi, were found during annual cleanliness campaigns under the Swachh Bharat Mission.
Highlights:
- Over the past three years, special cleanliness drives under the Swachh Bharat Mission have led to the recovery of thousands of historical records from Union government offices. These rediscovered documents will soon be displayed in a public exhibition, according to reports.
Significant Historical Files Found:
- Approximately 10,000 files of historical importance have been handed over to the National Archives of India (NAI). Key documents include:
- Records related to the 1911 shift of the British Indian capital from Calcutta to New Delhi.
- Administrative reforms after India's Independence.
- Corruption cases against the Indian Civil Service (ICS) officers.
- Files regarding the creation of the Establishment Officer post, crucial for senior appointments.
Impact of Special Campaigns:
- Initiated in 2021, the annual special campaign aims to improve sanitation in government offices and clear outdated records. According to data from the Department of Administrative Reforms and Public Grievances (DARPG), the campaigns have resulted in:
- 96.1 lakh files weeded out.
- 355.5 lakh square feet of space freed.
- Rs 1,162.49 crore earned from selling scrap materials.
Exhibition and Preservation Efforts:
- The recovered documents have been preserved for display, and an exhibition showcasing some of these files is planned for next month. Notable documents include:
- The 1966 Administrative Reforms Commission report, which focused on public administration reform.
- The 1964 Santhanam Committee report on the prevention of corruption.
Challenges in Record Submission:
- Although government records older than 25 years are supposed to be transferred to the NAI, compliance has been inconsistent. NAI Director General Arun Singhal emphasized the need for ministries to appoint records officers to ensure proper reporting to the archives.
Upcoming Cleanliness Drive:
- The fourth special campaign will begin on October 2, with preparations already underway. The campaign, besides physical cleanliness, also focuses on clearing pending public grievances and references from MPs and the Prime Minister’s Office. Ministries have been directed to resolve grievances within 21 days, shortened from the previous 30-day target.
Prelims Takeaways:
- National Archives of India (NAI)
- Indian Civil Service (ICS)