The Cabinet Committee on Economic Affairs has approved the development of the Yuge Yugeen Bharat Museum at the North and South Block Complex, New Delhi. The museum will showcase India's civilizational heritage through an integrated narrative.
On November 11th, 2026, the Cabinet Committee on Economic Affairs, chaired by Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi, approved the development of Yuge Yugeen Bharat Museum (YYBM) at the North and South Block Complex, New Delhi. The project is estimated to cost INR
amount as appraised by the Public Investment Board (PIB).
The museum will be developed through the adaptive reuse of the historic North and South Block Complex, preserving their architectural character and heritage significance while transforming them into a public cultural institution. The total estimated project cost is
based on detailed architectural and exhibition design, engineering and museum planning requirements, including technical assessments undertaken by the concerned agencies.
Spread over a proposed built-up area of approximately 1,78,509 square metres, YYBM will integrate contemporary museum practices, immersive technologies, and visitor-centric interpretation. It is expected to be the largest display area in the world among major international museums.
The Museum will present India's civilizational journey through curated thematic galleries, exhibitions, and interpretations of its diverse cultural traditions, knowledge systems, artistic practices, and heritage. The proposal was appraised by the Public Investment Board (PIB) on 27 July 2026, and the Ministry of Culture has concurred with its recommendations.
The project encompasses gallery development, collection storage and conservation facilities, visitor amenities, integration of technologies and immersive experiences, landscaping, intelligent building systems and associated infrastructure. A modular approach is being formulated to add more galleries. The content and collection analysis is being done and around 1.8 Million objects have been identified from National Museum and other Ministry of Culture Museums, 52 ASI site museums and various other state museums and private collections to be displayed in the YYBM.
Implementation will be undertaken in a phased manner over FY 2026-27 to FY 2030-31. The first inaugural gallery on the theme of Adornment is expected to open to public in the North Block in the later part of 2027.
Source:
Press Information Bureau
