New Delhi's North and South Blocks to become Rs 3,230-crore museum

The Cabinet has approved the Rs 3,230-crore Yuge Yugeen Bharat Museum at Delhi's North and South Blocks. The former government offices will house public galleries showcasing India's art, architecture and knowledge traditions.The North Block and South Block housed the key ministries of the Union government. (X/@NarendraModi)New Delhi,Nov 12, 2026 00:57 ISTThe Cabinet Committee on Economic Affairs, chaired by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, on Wednesday approved a Rs 3,230-crore project to turn Delhi’s North and South Blocks into the Yuge Yugeen Bharat Museum. The Centre says it will have the world’s largest museum display area.The first gallery, on the theme of adornment, is expected to open in North Block in late 2027. The project will be carried out in phases from 2026–27 to 2030–31.In a post on X, PM Modi called the project a “historic new chapter for India’s cultural heritage”. He said the museum would use galleries and immersive exhibits to showcase thousands of years of Indian heritage, from mathematics and astronomy to architecture, art, languages and spirituality.“Buildings that have been centres of governance will now become a place where millions can discover, experience and celebrate the timeless richness of our civilisation,” PM Modi said. WHAT THE MUSEUM WILL HOUSEThe museum will have a proposed built-up area of 1,78,509 square metres. Alongside galleries and exhibition spaces, it will have facilities to store and conserve collections and spaces for learning and research.The Centre says the museum is being designed to handle up to one crore visitors a year. It expects to earn revenue from ticket sales, guided tours, events, venue rentals, shops and food outlets.FROM GOVT OFFICES TO PUBLIC GALLERIES North and South Blocks flank Rashtrapati Bhavan on Raisina Hill. The two buildings and the nearby old Parliament House were built between 1912 and 1931 as part of the new capital planned under British rule. The Centre plans to preserve the architectural character of both blocks as it converts the former offices into a museum.PM Modi announced the project in May 2023. The Public Investment Board appraised it in July 2026, and the Ministry of Culture accepted its recommendations.- Ends