  We present results of near-infrared (near-IR) $JHK$ (1.07 - 2.5 $\mu$m)
spectroscopic and photometric observations of Nova V476 Scuti (V476 Sct) which
was discovered in outburst in 2005 September. The near-IR observations of the
nova presents the evolution of the post-maxima spectra and near-IR light curve.
The spectra of V476 Sct, observed on 9 different epochs, show prominent lines
due to HI, OI, CI and NI. Based on the IR spectral signatures we independently
identify it as a Fe II type of nova, consistent with the same classification
obtained from optical spectra. A detailed identification of the observed
spectral lines is presented. The near-IR $JHK$ light curve extending for a
period of about 59 days after outburst clearly shows the formation of a
optically thin dust shell, a phenomenon which is not commonly observed in
novae. By fitting black body curves to the spectral energy distributions (SEDs)
the temperatures of the dust shell on different epochs have been estimated.
Dust formation in V476 Sct is consistent with the presence of lines of elements
with low-ionization potential like Na and Mg in the early spectra which had
earlier been suggested by us to be potential indicators of dust formation at a
later phase in a nova's development.
