In a noteworthy initiative, the National Archives of India (NAI) has initiated its maiden overseas project, coordinating with the Indian Embassy in Muscat to digitally preserve the rich heritage of the Indian diaspora in Oman.

Known as ‘The Oman Collection: Archival Heritage of the Indian Community in Oman,’ this endeavour marks an important milestone in documenting the history of the Indian diaspora in the Sultanate spanning over 250 years.

Heritage Digitization in Muscat

The project involved scanning and digitizing more than 7,000 documents from the private collections of old Indian merchant families residing in Oman, for nine days with records dating back to the 19th and early 20th centuries.

It gained active participation from 32 distinguished Indian families, primarily hailing from Gujarat, with ancestral ties to Oman spanning an impressive 250 years.

The project caused the digitization of more than 7,000 documents, comprising various languages such as English, Arabic, Gujarati, and Hindi.

These documents, sourced from the private collections of esteemed Indian merchant families, offered a captivating glimpse into the historical tapestry of Oman's Indian community. Among them were personal diaries, account books, ledgers, telegrams, trade invoices, passports, citations, letters, correspondences, and photographs.

Of note, the oldest digitized document dates to 1838, while the majority originated from the late 19th and early 20th centuries.

Additionally digitizing material artifacts, the project delved into the realm of oral history. Elder members of the Indian community in Oman shared firsthand accounts, encompassing personal anecdotes, migration experiences, and the community's evolution over time.

These narratives added depth and richness to the archival records, providing invaluable insights into the community's journey and contributions. Arun Singhal, Director General of the National Archives of India, expressed pride in this pioneering effort, underscoring its significance in preserving the diverse heritage and narratives of the overseas Indian community.

Ambassador Amit Narang of India to Oman pointed out the project's alignment with Prime Minister Narendra Modi's vision to strengthen ties with the Indian diaspora worldwide. Sheikh Anil Khimji, depicting the Indian community in Oman, lauded the project's efforts in preserving their history and acknowledged the support of Prime Minister Modi and External Affairs Minister Dr. S. Jaishankar.

Future Implications

Approved by the National Records and Archives Authority of Oman, the project received essential logistical support, ensuring its smooth execution.

Beyond preserving historical records, the digitization project aims to support closer engagement with the Indian diaspora in Oman, promoting a deeper understanding of the enduring friendship between India and Oman.

It is prepared to become a valuable resource for research and education, enriching the awareness of the Indian diaspora's contributions and development in Oman for future generations.

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