Cabinet clears shift from North, South Blocks to Seva Teerth; museum to come up
New Delhi: The Union Cabinet has approved the transition from North and South Blocks to new governance complexes named Seva Teerth and Kartavya Bhavans. The decision also advances the vision of Seva Teerth and Yuge Yugeen Bharat National Museum, marking a major transformation in India’s administrative and cultural landscape.
On February 13, 2026, Prime Minister Narendra Modi dedicated the new Prime Minister’s Office, now called “Seva Teerth,” to the nation. The Cabinet held its final meeting in the historic South Block chamber before relocating.
From colonial legacy to modern governance
The British constructed North and South Blocks during colonial rule. After Independence in 1947, successive governments continued to operate from these buildings. Since then, the Prime Minister’s Office functioned from South Block.
Over the decades, the complex witnessed key decisions under 16 Prime Ministers, from Jawaharlal Nehru to Narendra Modi. Leaders deliberated here during Partition, wars, the Emergency and economic reforms. The space also saw India’s shift from paper-based administration to digital governance.
According to the government, the move reflects a shift from a colonial-era power structure to a service-driven governance model. The new offices provide modern, technology-enabled and environmentally sustainable infrastructure. Officials believe this will improve efficiency and support the goal of a developed India.
Museum to celebrate civilisational continuity
The Cabinet also resolved to convert North and South Blocks into the Yuge Yugeen Bharat National Museum. Through the initiative of Seva Teerth and Yuge Yugeen Bharat National Museum, the government aims to preserve heritage while redefining the purpose of these historic spaces.
The proposed museum will showcase India’s thousands of years of civilisation, cultural traditions and national milestones. It will connect the country’s past with its aspirations for the future.
In its statement, the Cabinet expressed gratitude to the Prime Minister for transforming the centre of governance into Seva Teerth. The transition, it said, symbolises India’s movement from a colonial past towards a confident and developed future.
