Primary Sources:
Primary sources are firsthand accounts or direct evidence of an event. Historians rely on primary sources to gain insight into the past. In Indian history, primary sources include:
- Inscriptions: Inscriptions on monuments, coins, and copper plates provide valuable information about rulers, dynasties, and events.
- Manuscripts: Ancient texts and documents written on palm leaves or paper offer details about society, culture, and traditions.
- Archaeological remains: Artifacts, buildings, and other physical evidence help reconstruct the past.

Secondary Sources:
Secondary sources interpret and analyze primary sources to create a narrative of historical events. Historians use secondary sources such as:
- Books: Academic books written by historians provide in-depth analysis and interpretations of Indian history.
- Journals: Scholarly journals contain research articles and reviews that contribute to historical knowledge.
- Encyclopedias: Reference works like encyclopedias offer summaries and overviews of historical topics.

Archival Sources:
Archival sources are documents preserved in archives and repositories. Historians access archival sources like:
- Government records: Official documents, reports, and correspondence reveal administrative decisions and policies.
- Personal papers: Letters, diaries, and memoirs of individuals offer insights into their lives and experiences.
- Photographs and maps: Visual sources help historians visualize the past and understand geographical changes.

Oral History:
Oral history involves collecting and preserving firsthand accounts through interviews and recordings. Historians use oral history to capture personal experiences and perspectives that may not be found in written sources. Interviewing elders, community members, and witnesses of historical events enriches the understanding of Indian history.