
FAQ
Frequently Asked Questions
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General Information.
General Information:
1. What is Abhilekh Patal?
Abhilekh Patal is a digital repository curated by the National Archives of India (NAI), providing access to a vast collection of historical records, documents, and manuscripts.
2. What’s new in the updated version of Abhilekh Patal?
- Interface Modernization: The interface has undergone modernization to enhance intuitiveness and ensure comprehensive accessibility.
- Enhancement of User Interaction: The platform has been redesigned to improve ease of use and facilitate effective user interaction.
- Functional Optimization: Functionality has been optimized to ensure efficient interaction and broad accessibility.
- Multi-Platform Compatibility: The platform has been structured to provide consistent and seamless accessibility across diverse platforms.
3. Who can use Abhilekh Patal?
Abhilekh Patal is open to a wide range of users, including researchers, students, history enthusiasts, anyone interested in learning about India's heritage and past.
4. Is Abhilekh Patal affiliated with the National Archives of India?
Yes, Abhilekh Patal is officially maintained by the National Archives of India (NAI).
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Accessing Records.
1. How can I access the records on Abhilekh Patal?
Visit the portal and browse the available collections using the explore, search and category sections.
2. Are there any restrictions on who can access the records?
No, Abhilekh Patal is accessible to all. However, registration is required to access the complete set of records available on the portal.
3. Can I access Abhilekh Patal from outside India?
Yes, the portal is accessible worldwide with an internet connection.
4. Do I need to create an account to access the records?
No, but creating an account provides additional benefits, such as:
- Viewing complete files
- Requesting digitization (DOD)
- Saving/bookmarking records for future reference
5. Are the records available for download?
Yes, many records are available for download after payment through the DOD (Digitize on Demand) and POD (Page on Demand) services.
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Types of Records.
1. What type of records are available on the portal?
The collections include:
- Public Records (Government documents under the Public Records Act 1993)
- Private Papers (Personal collections of historical figures)
- Cartographic Records (Maps and geographical documents)
- Library Collections (Rare books and manuscripts)
2. Are records available in languages other than English?
Yes! You can find records in Persian, Urdu, Sanskrit, Pali, Bengali, Gujarati, and many more Indian languages.
3. Can I find photographs and maps in the collections?
Yes, the database includes historical photographs, maps, and manuscripts.
4. Are there records related to specific time periods or historical events?
Yes, the records cover various time periods and historical events, allowing users to explore different eras of India’s history.
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New & Improved Features
1. What type of records are available on the portal?
The updated version includes:
- Advanced search filters (Date, Keyword, Type of Record, etc.)
- Faster search results
- Better record categorization
2. Can I now access Abhilekh Patal easily on mobile devices?
Yes! The platform is fully optimized for mobile browsing, allowing easy access on smartphones and tablets.
3. Can I save or bookmark searches for later use?
Yes! Users can now bookmark records for quick access later.
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Fees & Services
1. Is there a fee to access the records?
Basic access is free, but premium services like Digitize on Demand (DOD) and Page on Demand (POD) require payment.
2. What is the Digitize on Demand (DOD) service?
DOD allows users to request digitization of specific records that are not yet available online.
3. How has the DOD service improved?
Now, DOD requests are instantly accessible after payment—no waiting required!
4. What payment options are available for DOD services?
- Users can pay via:
- Debit/Credit Cards
- UPI & Net Banking
5. Can I track my DOD request?
Yes! A new order tracking system lets users monitor the progress of their digitization requests.
6. What is the Page on Demand (POD) feature?
POD allows users to download specific pages of records for a nominal fee.
7. How do I download specific pages of records through POD?
Simply select the POD option, specify the pages needed, and make a payment to download them instantly.
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Navigation & Research
1. How do I navigate the portal efficiently?
You can make use of the digitized index registers available in the "reference tools" section to navigate the collections efficiently.
2. Are there search filters to narrow down results?
Yes, you can filter results based on:
- Date
- Keywords
- Type of record
- Language
3. Can I access historical indexes and catalogs?
Yes! The portal provides access to historical indexes and catalogs to assist researchers.
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Scope & Contributions
1. Is Abhilekh Patal only for Indian history?
While the focus is on Indian history, it also includes records on India’s relations with other countries.
2. Can I contribute my own records to Abhilekh Patal?
Currently, only the National Archives of India manages the collections, and public contributions are not accepted.
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Support & Assistance
1. Is there a dedicated support section?
Yes! Users can find help, FAQs, and contact options under the Support & Feedback section.
2. How do I report an issue with a record or my account?
Use the "Report an Issue" button on the portal or email the support team.
3. How can I give feedback on Abhilekh Patal?
Users can submit feedback and suggestions in the Feedback section.
4. How frequently are new records added?
The National Archives of India regularly updates the portal with newly digitized content.
5. What if the record I’m looking for is missing?
If the record isn’t listed, check the ‘Reference Tools’ section or contact the Research Room team at researchroomnai1@gmail.com.
6. How can I contact Abhilekh Patal for further assistance?
Users can find contact details on the official portal or reach out via email.
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Contact Information
1. What is Abhilekh Patal?
Abhilekh Patal is a digital repository curated by the National Archives of India (NAI) that provides access to a vast collection of historical records and documents.
2. What is the purpose of Abhilekh Patal?
The main goal of Abhilekh Patal is to offer easy access to India's historical archives, allowing users to explore and learn about the country's history, culture, and heritage. .
3. Who can use Abhilekh Patal?
The main goal of Abhilekh Patal is to offer easy access to India's historical archives, allowing users to explore and learn about the country's history, culture, and heritage.
4. Is Abhilekh Patal affiliated with the National Archives of India?
Abhilekh Patal is open to a wide range of users, including researchers, students, history enthusiasts, anyone interested in learning about India's heritage and past.