New Delhi: The Union Cabinet, chaired by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, has approved the development of the ambitious Yuge Yugeen Bharat Museum in New Delhi at an estimated cost of Rs 3,230 crore. The project will transform the historic North and South Block buildings into a world-class museum showcasing India’s rich civilisational heritage.
The museum will be developed through the adaptive reuse of the iconic government buildings, preserving their architectural character and historical significance while giving them a new role as a public cultural institution.
Spread across a proposed built-up area of approximately 1,78,509 square metres, the museum is envisioned as the world’s largest museum in terms of display area. It will present India’s civilisational journey through an integrated narrative covering the country’s tangible and intangible cultural heritage.
The project will feature thematic galleries, exhibitions and immersive experiences highlighting India’s diverse traditions, knowledge systems, artistic practices and cultural achievements. Modern museum technologies, visitor-friendly facilities and international exhibition standards will also be incorporated.
The development will include gallery spaces, collection storage and conservation facilities, visitor amenities, landscaping, intelligent building systems and supporting infrastructure.
The project will be implemented in phases between the financial years 2026-27 and 2030-31. The first gallery, based on the theme of ‘Adornment’, is expected to open to the public in the North Block during the latter part of 2027.
Announced by Prime Minister Modi on May 18, 2023, the museum is intended to serve as a major national institution for cultural education, research and public engagement. It will cater to students, researchers, scholars, cultural practitioners and domestic as well as international tourists.
The museum is being designed to accommodate approximately one crore visitors annually. It is also expected to generate revenue through ticket sales, guided tours, food and beverage facilities, retail outlets, cultural events, venue rentals and digital experiences.
The redevelopment offers an opportunity to preserve two of Delhi’s most recognisable heritage buildings while transforming them into a major cultural destination.
The North and South Blocks, located on Raisina Hill near Rashtrapati Bhavan, were constructed between 1912 and 1931 as part of the development of New Delhi during British rule. Their transformation into the Yuge Yugeen Bharat Museum will give the historic structures a new purpose while connecting India’s past with its cultural future.
