Prime Minister Narendra Modi recently inaugurated the Kartavya Bhavan at Kartavya Path in New Delhi. He emphasised that this building is more than just infrastructure; it represents the foundation for a developed India.
“In the coming decades, the direction of the country will be determined from this building,” PM Modi stated during the event.
The Kartavya Bhavan-03 is designed to house several key ministries, including Home Affairs, External Affairs, and Rural Development. The aim is to consolidate these departments under one roof for improved efficiency. Currently, many ministries operate from older buildings like Shastri Bhawan and Krishi Bhawan, which are considered outdated.
Central Vista Redevelopment
The inauguration of Kartavya Bhavan is part of the larger Central Vista redevelopment project. This ambitious plan includes constructing ten buildings for the Common Central Secretariat (CCS). The first two CCS buildings are expected to be completed by next month, with CCS 10 finishing by April next year.
Union Housing and Urban Affairs Minister Manohar Lal Khattar and Ministry Secretary Katikithala Srinivas accompanied PM Modi on a tour of the new facility. Srinivas provided insights into the features of Kartavya Bhavan, highlighting its modern amenities and design.
Temporary Relocations
During construction, offices from four existing bhawans will temporarily relocate to new sites on Kasturba Gandhi Marg, Minto Road, and Netaji Palace for two years. Some structures like the National Museum and National Archives will remain as they are relatively new.
The government has already completed significant parts of the Central Vista project, including a new Parliament building and Vice President Enclave. The redevelopment also covers Kartavya Path from Vijay Chowk to India Gate.
Future Developments
Plans include constructing an Executive Enclave featuring a new Prime Minister’s Office (PMO), Cabinet Secretariat, India House, and National Security Council Secretariat. A new residence for the prime minister is also planned under this phase.
Kartavya Bhavan-03 spans 1.5 lakh square metres with a basement area of 40,000 square metres. It offers parking for 600 cars and includes facilities like a creche, yoga room, medical room, cafe, kitchen, and multipurpose hall.
The building boasts 24 main conference rooms seating 45 people each and 26 smaller ones accommodating 25 individuals each. Additionally, there are 67 meeting rooms and 27 lifts to facilitate movement within the structure.