Model Answer

The relocation of the Prime Minister’s Office (PMO) from the historic South Block to the newly constructed Seva Teerth complex marks a significant administrative and symbolic shift in India’s governance architecture. The move is part of the broader Central Vista Redevelopment Project, aimed at modernising India’s central administrative infrastructure. Beyond a mere change of address, it reflects evolving priorities in governance, efficiency, and nation-building.

1. Administrative and Institutional Significance (a) Improving Functional Efficiency

The North and South Blocks, built during the colonial era, were designed for a different scale of administration. Over time, space constraints, structural deterioration, and technological limitations hindered efficient functioning.

The Seva Teerth complex:

Consolidates key offices such as the PMO, National Security Council Secretariat, and Cabinet Secretariat.

Provides modern digital infrastructure and secure communication systems.

Enables better inter-ministerial coordination through proximity and integrated facilities.

Thus, the relocation strengthens institutional capacity in line with the expanding responsibilities of the Indian state.

(b) Rationalisation of Administrative Space

India’s governance structure has expanded significantly since Independence. Fragmented ministries functioning from multiple rented buildings created inefficiencies and financial burdens. The new Central Secretariat buildings such as Kartavya Bhavan 1 and 2 aim to centralise administration, reducing long-term operational costs and improving coordination.

2. Symbolic and Ideological Dimensions (a) From Colonial Legacy to Citizen-Centric Governance

The North and South Blocks were constructed by the British as symbols of imperial authority. The new complex represents a shift from a colonial power architecture to an indigenous, citizen-focused administrative ethos.

The naming of “Seva Teerth” (a pilgrimage site of service) conveys the philosophy that governance is a form of public service. This aligns with the broader vision of “Nagrik Devo Bhava” — placing the citizen at the centre of governance.

(b) Assertion of Aspirational India

The redevelopment project reflects India’s aspiration to project itself as a confident, modern state. Infrastructure becomes a statement of national capability and ambition, consistent with the goal of building a “Viksit Bharat” (Developed India).

3. Alignment with Welfare and Developmental Measures

The relocation was accompanied by announcements of several welfare and economic initiatives, reinforcing that infrastructure modernisation is being complemented by inclusive development.

(a) Lakhpati Didi Scheme

The target under the Lakhpati Didi scheme was expanded to 6 crore women. The scheme focuses on enabling women in Self-Help Groups to earn over ₹1 lakh annually through livelihood activities.

This demonstrates:

Emphasis on women-led development.

Grassroots economic empowerment.

Strengthening of rural self-employment models.

(b) Agriculture Infrastructure Fund

The Agriculture Infrastructure Fund was doubled to ₹2 lakh crore to promote post-harvest management, storage, and value addition.

Its significance lies in:

Reducing post-harvest losses.

Improving farmers’ income.

Encouraging private investment in agri-logistics.

(c) Startup India Fund of Funds 2.0

The approval of a ₹10,000 crore corpus under the Startup India Fund of Funds 2.0 aims to support early-stage and deep-tech startups.

This reflects:

Promotion of innovation-led growth.

Focus on technology and research.

Strengthening India’s entrepreneurial ecosystem.

Collectively, these measures indicate that physical infrastructure modernisation is being paired with social and economic empowerment. 4. Critical Perspectives

While the redevelopment enhances efficiency, certain concerns have been raised:

Cost and Prioritisation: Critics argue that large-scale capital expenditure on administrative buildings must be balanced against pressing social needs.

Heritage and Environmental Concerns: Questions were raised regarding preservation of historical architecture and environmental impact.

Centralisation Debate: Consolidation of power structures in the national capital may raise concerns about over-centralisation in a federal polity.

A balanced evaluation requires acknowledging both governance benefits and democratic debates surrounding large infrastructure projects.

The relocation of the PMO to Seva Teerth under the Central Vista Redevelopment Project signifies more than an infrastructural upgrade. It represents a transition towards modern administrative efficiency, symbolic decolonisation of power spaces, and consolidation of governance structures.

Simultaneously, the expansion of welfare schemes such as Lakhpati Didi, enhancement of the Agriculture Infrastructure Fund, and support for startups reflect a multidimensional development strategy that integrates state capacity with grassroots empowerment.

If implemented effectively and transparently, these initiatives together can contribute to building an efficient, citizen-centric state aligned with the vision of a “Viksit Bharat.”