North and South Blocks to be converted into Rs 3,230-crore museum
The Yuge Yugeen Bharat Museum will feature the world's largest display area and is expected to host one crore visitors annually.
The Cabinet Committee on Economic Affairs, led by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, approved a Rs 3,230-crore project on Wednesday to transform New Delhi’s North and South Blocks into the Yuge Yugeen Bharat Museum, according to India Today.
The project will be executed in stages between 2026–27 and 2030–31, with the first gallery focusing on the theme of adornment expected to open in the North Block in late 2027.
The museum will occupy a built-up area of 1,78,509 square metres and include exhibition spaces, research areas, and facilities for the conservation of collections. The Centre stated the site is designed to accommodate up to one crore visitors every year.
Prime Minister Modi described the initiative as a "historic new chapter for India’s cultural heritage" on X. He said the museum would use immersive exhibits to display Indian heritage, including architecture, art, languages, mathematics, astronomy, and spirituality.
The buildings on Raisina Hill were constructed between 1912 and 1931. The Centre intends to maintain the architectural character of the blocks while converting the former government offices into public galleries.
Revenue for the museum is expected to come from various sources, including venue rentals, shops, food outlets, guided tours, events, and ticket sales.