Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Wednesday inaugurated Kartavya Bhavan-03 at Delhi’s Kartavya Path, marking a major milestone in the Central Vista redevelopment project aimed at transforming India’s administrative landscape.
Accompanied by Union Housing and Urban Affairs Minister Manohar Lal Khattar, PM Modi toured the newly constructed Kartavya Bhavan, the first in a series of Common Central Secretariat buildings designed to centralise government functions and enhance inter-ministerial coordination.
According to a statement from the Prime Minister’s Office (PMO), the Kartavya Bhavan reflects the government’s administrative reform agenda, which includes co-locating Ministries for improved efficiency, faster policy execution, and enhanced governance.
At present, several key Ministries operate from old and inefficient buildings like Shastri Bhawan, Krishi Bhawan, Udyog Bhawan, and Nirman Bhawan, built between the 1950s and 1970s. These structures are outdated and require extensive maintenance. The new complex aims to cut operational costs, boost productivity, and improve employee well-being.
Spanning approximately 1.5 lakh square metres across two basement levels and seven floors, Kartavya Bhavan-03 will house the offices of the Ministries/Departments of Home Affairs, External Affairs, Rural Development, MSME, DoPT, Petroleum & Natural Gas, and the Principal Scientific Adviser.
Designed with an emphasis on sustainability and smart infrastructure, the building features:
- GRIHA-4 compliance for green buildings
- Rooftop solar panels generating over 5.34 lakh units annually
- Solar water heaters covering over 25% of daily hot water needs
- Rainwater harvesting, advanced HVAC systems, and zero-discharge waste management
- Recycled construction material, LED lighting with sensors, smart lifts, and energy-efficient glazing
- E-vehicle charging stations and ID-based access controls with integrated electronic surveillance
The facility is designed to consume 30% less energy, with special glass to regulate indoor temperature and noise, and a centralised system to monitor and manage power usage.
The Prime Minister is also scheduled to address a public gathering at Kartavya Path at around 6:30 PM today as part of the inauguration programme.