New Delhi: The new Prime Minister’s Office (PMO) near Raisina Hill is nearing completion, with construction workers giving the final finishing touches. Prime Minister Narendra Modi is expected to begin working from the new office later this month, marking a historic shift in India’s administrative landscape.
The new PMO has been built as part of the ambitious Central Vista redevelopment project, aimed at modernising India’s central administrative infrastructure while reflecting the country’s cultural heritage.
Seva Teerth: The New Executive Hub
Initially referred to as the Executive Enclave during the construction phase, the premises have now been officially named Seva Teerth, meaning a holy place of service. The complex comprises three distinct buildings, each serving a critical role in the country’s governance framework.
- Seva Teerth 1 will house the Prime Minister’s Office
- Seva Teerth 2 will accommodate the Cabinet Secretariat
- Seva Teerth 3 will house the National Security Council Secretariat and the office of National Security Advisor Ajit Doval
Officials said the layout is designed to enhance coordination between key decision-making bodies.
Modern Design with Cultural Identity
The new PMO features a modern open-floor office model, a significant departure from traditional compartmentalised layouts. Officials noted that the open plan is intended to foster collaboration and a change in work culture.
In addition to advanced technological infrastructure, Seva Teerth includes high-end meeting rooms designed to host dignitaries. These rooms incorporate architectural elements that reflect India’s culture and traditions. A specially designed cabinet meeting room has also been added within the complex.
Shift from South Block Ends a Historic Era
Since Independence, the Prime Minister’s Office has functioned from the South Block, alongside the Ministries of External Affairs and Defence. The North Block previously housed the Home and Finance Ministries.
Both ministries have now moved to Kartavya Bhavan, freeing the North and South Blocks for a new purpose. These iconic colonial-era buildings will be transformed into a massive museum showcasing India’s 5,000-year-old civilisation. The first phase of the museum is expected to be inaugurated early next year.
PM’s New Residence Also Under Construction
Alongside the new PMO, a new Prime Minister’s residence is being constructed near Seva Teerth. Once completed, Prime Minister Modi is expected to move out of his current residence at 7, Lok Kalyan Marg and shift to the new bungalow.
Central Vista Project Progress
Under the Central Vista project:
- The new Parliament building is already complete and operational
- The Vice President’s enclave is ready
- The Prime Minister’s Office is nearing completion
- Three out of eight new ministerial office buildings are already functional
Officials said the remaining phases are progressing steadily.
A Symbolic and Functional Transition
With its combination of modern infrastructure, cultural symbolism, and proximity to key institutions, Seva Teerth is being positioned as the new nerve centre of India’s executive governance, signalling a shift from colonial-era administrative structures to a future-ready framework.
