Maharashtra State Gazetteers

FAQ (Frequently Asked Questions)

What is a Gazetteer ?

A gazetteer is a compendium that provides details about natural landforms, rivers, forests, geographical information of places, people's traditions, royal dynasties' history, economy, revenue, administration, and archaeological remains.

What is the difference between a Gazetteer and a Gazette ?

• A gazetteer is a compendium that provides information on natural landforms, rivers, forests, geographical information of places, people's traditions, royal dynasties' history, economy, revenue, administration, and archaeological remains.
• A gazette refers to a government publication used for official announcements like name changes. (It is printed at the Government Publication Store, Netaji Subhash Road, Charni Road, Mumbai - 400 004.)

What kind of work is done in the Gazetteer department?

The work involves publishing English and Marathi editions of district and state gazetteers, reprinting British-era gazetteers, publishing district supplementary gazetteers, and compiling works like Source Material for a History of the Freedom Movement and Biographical Dictionary of Freedom Fighters.

Where are all Gazetteer publications sold?

Gazetteer publications are sold at the following locations:
1. Government Book Depot, Netaji Subhash Road, Charni Road, Mumbai - 400 004
2. Government Photozinco Press and Book Depot, Pune - 411 001
3. Government Press and Book Depot, Civil Lines, Nagpur - 440 001
4. Government Press and Book Depot, Aurangabad - 421 001
5. Government Press, Kolhapur

Under which department does the Gazetteer Department function in the Maharashtra Government?

The Gazetteer Department functions under the administrative control of the Department of Cultural Affairs, Government of Maharashtra.

What is the nature of work in the Gazetteer Department?

The department gathers extensive and in-depth historical information for writing gazetteer volumes. This information is collected from scattered old records, reports, publications, correspondence, personal interviews, and direct surveys. All collected data and reference material are classified, systematized, and verified before final editing. On certain important topics, experts are commissioned for writing on an honorarium basis. However, most writing is done by officers and staff within the department. After final editing, the prepared content is sent to the editorial board for review and suggestions. It is then finalized based on this feedback.