Archives
Preserving Ideas, Institutions and Journeys of Development
Over several decades, NFD has been a space for reflection, dialogue, experimentation, and institution building in India’s development journey. The Archives section brings together selected documents, publications, records, and visual material that reflect NFD’s legacy, ideas, and contributions across sectors and time.
This archive is not only a record of the past, but a resource for learning, research, and inspiration for present and future generations of practitioners, scholars, and institutions.
What the Archives Contain
The Archives house material that documents the evolution of NFD’s thinking and practice, as well as the journeys of institutions that have emerged from its ecosystem.
This includes founding documents, concept notes, research papers, speeches, reports, correspondence, photographs, and audio-visual material related to NFD and its affiliated institutions.
Over time, the Archives will continue to grow as additional material is curated and made accessible.
Dr. Vikram A. Sarabhai and the Early Years
A significant part of the Archives relates to the vision and writings of Dr. Vikram A. Sarabhai, whose ideas on science, education, development, and social responsibility shaped NFD and several national institutions.
These materials offer insights into early debates on development, scientific temper, public participation, and institution building in post-independence India.
Institutional Memory and Learning
The Archives also serve as a repository of institutional memory, capturing the evolution of programmes, partnerships, and approaches across education, environment, livelihoods, health, culture, and urban development.
For practitioners and partners, these records provide valuable lessons on long-term engagement, innovation, scaling, and adaptation across changing social and policy contexts.
Access and Use
The Archives are being curated with the intent of enabling responsible access for research, education, and public learning. Selected material will be made available online, while more extensive collections may be accessed through prior request.
NFD welcomes collaboration with researchers, educators, students, and institutions interested in engaging with its archival material.
Building the Archives Together
As a living institution, NFD recognises that its history continues to evolve. Former colleagues, partners, associates, and institutions connected with NFD are welcome to contribute relevant material, documentation, and reflections that enrich the collective record.
