vision & Mission

vision

The NMML aims to contribute to a better understanding of Modern and Contemporary India, and thus serve as a link with the past and the future of India.

Mission

The Library has been planned as a research library on modern and contemporary Indian history and social sciences. Its published resources acquired for the Library include books, pamphlets, newspapers, periodicals and other documentary materials. The Library has a rich collection of material on microfilms and microfiche. The NMML Archives has acquired papers of nationalist leaders of Modern India and other eminent Indians who distinguished themselves in any field. Also records of non-official organizations, associations and societies which played an important role in the development of modern India are also acquired by the NMML. Our collection of private papers, which is largest in the country, continues to grow steadily with fresh acquisitions almost every month. With extensive collections of documentary films, photos and oral history interviews, it is a premier archive of 20th century India and the contemporary period. The NMML’s Centre for Contemporary Studies has been promoting study and research in the field of modern and contemporary Indian history and organizing lectures, seminars and conferences. The Fellowships - held for fixed tenures - have attracted some of the finest scholars in the country, and the on-going seminars is a platform for young and eminent scholars alike. The entire site covers 45 acres and is a key heritage landmark, including the Herbert Baker building (1928) that houses the Museum, the Library building (1974) designed by the late M.M. Rana and a 14th century hunting lodge of Firuz Shah Tughluq. Along with a sprawling garden, it commemorates and preserves a historic heritage site in the heart of New Delhi.