Cabinet Approves Transition of North and South Blocks to Seva Teerth

18 Feb 2026 CW Team

The Union Cabinet has approved the proposal to transition the Prime Minister's Office (PMO) and other central offices from the historic North and South Blocks to the newly dedicated Seva Teerth and the Kartavya Bhavans, following the dedication of the new PMO on 13 February 2026. The decision formalises the relocation of ministerial and executive workspaces to a modern, technological and environmentally friendly complex intended to enhance productivity for staff. The Cabinet has also resolved that North and South Blocks will be integrated into the Yuge Yugeen Bharat National Museum.\n\nThe North and South Blocks were constructed under British rule and were retained after independence for governmental functions, with the Prime Minister's Office functioning from South Block for decades. The buildings have served as the centre for major national decisions and have witnessed the horror of Partition, the challenges of war and the Emergency, as well as the transition from typewriters to digital governance. Cabinets formed under the leadership of 16 prime ministers have deliberated within these chambers, shaping policy across successive administrations.\n\nOfficials noted that South Block hosted numerous reform initiatives and that many decisions shaping governance and welfare originated there. Reforms such as direct benefit transfer (DBT), Swachh Bharat Abhiyan, Digital India and the goods and services tax (GST) were advanced from these offices, and major steps on national security and social justice, including the abrogation of Article 370 and legislation on triple talaq, followed cabinet consideration. Military measures described in the release as surgical strike, air strike and Operation Sindoor reflected assertive security policy.\n\nThe Cabinet characterised the transition as symbolic of a movement from a colonial past towards a culture of service and a resolve to build a developed nation, while noting the need for contemporary, efficient workplaces. The museum is intended to celebrate the continuity of civilisation and to link historic achievements with a prosperous future. The Union Cabinet expressed gratitude for leadership that guided the transformation into Seva Teerth and confirmed that the vacated heritage buildings will be preserved through the museum.

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