Cabinet Approves ₹3,230 Crore Yuge Yugeen Bharat Museum at North and South Block in Delhi

The Union Cabinet has approved a ₹3,230 crore investment to develop the Yuge Yugeen Bharat Museum in Delhi, showcasing India's civilisational heritage through immersive exhibitions and galleries.

Cabinet Approves ₹3,230 Crore for Yuge Yugeen Bharat Museum

The Cabinet Committee on Economic Affairs (CCEA), chaired by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, has approved the development of the Yuge Yugeen Bharat Museum (YYBM) at the historic North and South Block Complex in New Delhi.

The project, approved on November 11, 2026, has an estimated cost of ₹3,230 crore (approximately US$341.05 million). The museum is envisioned as a major cultural institution that will highlight the continuity, diversity and richness of India's civilisational heritage.

Historic North and South Blocks to Be Transformed into a Museum

The museum will be developed by adaptively reusing the historic North and South Block buildings. The approach aims to preserve the architectural and heritage character of these landmark structures while converting them into modern exhibition spaces.

The proposed museum will cover a built-up area of approximately 1,78,509 square metres. According to the project details, it is expected to have the world's largest display area.

The institution will combine contemporary museum practices with immersive technologies to offer visitors an engaging experience of India's history, culture and achievements.

Museum Development Planned Between FY27 and FY31

The Yuge Yugeen Bharat Museum will be developed in phases between FY27 and FY31. Its 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.

The phased development will allow different galleries and exhibition spaces to be introduced over time.

Around 1.8 Million Objects Identified for Display

Approximately 1.8 million objects have been identified for the museum's collections. These objects have been sourced from several institutions and collections, including:

• National Museum

• Museums under the Ministry of Culture

• 52 Archaeological Survey of India (ASI) site museums

• State museums

• Private collections

The identified artefacts are expected to help present a broad account of India's cultural, scientific, artistic and historical contributions.

Key Themes to Be Covered by the Museum

The museum will feature galleries exploring different aspects of India's civilisational journey. Major themes will include:

Adornment

The first gallery will explore India's traditions of personal adornment, craftsmanship and artistic expression.

Architecture and Cityscapes

This section will highlight India's architectural heritage, historic settlements and the evolution of urban spaces.

Mathematics and Astronomy

The gallery will showcase India's contributions to mathematical knowledge and astronomical studies.

Languages and Scripts

Visitors will learn about the development of India's diverse languages, writing systems and literary traditions.

Bharat Connects – Trade and Ideas

This section will focus on India's historical connections with the world through trade, cultural exchange and the movement of ideas.

Museum Expected to Welcome One Crore Visitors Annually

The Yuge Yugeen Bharat Museum will be designed to accommodate approximately one crore visitors every year. Its scale and exhibition offerings are expected to strengthen India's cultural tourism sector and attract domestic as well as international visitors.

The project is also expected to generate employment opportunities during its development and operational phases. Additionally, promoting the domestic manufacturing of museum-related materials and infrastructure could support the government's Make in India initiative.

Conclusion

The Yuge Yugeen Bharat Museum is planned as a major cultural project that will bring India's civilisational heritage together under one roof. By transforming the historic North and South Block buildings into modern museum spaces, the project aims to preserve heritage while introducing new ways to explore India's past. With phased development, extensive collections and an expected annual capacity of one crore visitors, the museum could become an important destination for cultural tourism and heritage education.