Context
The newly constructed complex housing the Prime Minister’s Office (PMO), developed under the Central Vista Redevelopment Project, has been named “Seva Teerth.” The naming reflects an ideological and administrative repositioning of the highest executive office in India.
What is Seva Teerth?
Seva Teerth, earlier referred to as the Executive Enclave, is a modern, integrated administrative complex intended to enhance coordination, efficiency and security within the Union executive framework. It replaces the earlier PMO housed in the South Block.
The complex integrates:
- The Prime Minister’s Office (PMO)
- The Cabinet Secretariat
- The National Security Council Secretariat
- India House, a high-level conference facility for bilateral and multilateral engagements
By co-locating these key institutions, the design seeks to streamline executive decision-making and improve inter-agency coordination.
Purpose and Philosophy
The name “Seva Teerth” symbolises governance rooted in service rather than authority.
- “Seva” denotes service and responsibility.
- “Teerth” traditionally signifies a sacred site, here metaphorically representing dedication to public welfare.
The naming aligns with a broader symbolic shift in administrative vocabulary:
- Rajpath renamed as Kartavya Path
- Race Course Road renamed as Lok Kalyan Marg
- Movement toward renaming Raj Bhavans as Lok Bhavans
This reflects a narrative of decolonisation and citizen-centric governance.
Central Vista Redevelopment Project
The Central Vista Project, launched in 2019, aims to modernise the administrative core of New Delhi stretching from Rashtrapati Bhavan to India Gate.
Key Objectives
Administrative Efficiency
- Consolidation of 51 ministries into ten Common Central Secretariat buildings
- Reduction in rental expenditure and improved coordination
Infrastructure Modernisation
- Replacement of structurally aged and fire-unsafe buildings
- Development of earthquake-resistant, globally benchmarked infrastructure
National Symbolism
- Replacement of colonial-era symbolism
- Architectural and nomenclature changes reflecting democratic identity
Public Amenities
- Revamped Kartavya Path with improved green cover and pedestrian facilities
- Enhanced public access and tourism potential
Security and Logistics
- Consolidation of PM and Vice President offices and residences
- Reduced logistical complexity and improved security perimeter
Major Components
- New Parliament Building (inaugurated in 2023)
- Kartavya Path redevelopment
- Common Central Secretariat buildings
- Executive Enclave (Seva Teerth)
- Dedicated secure residences for PM and Vice President
- Conversion of North and South Blocks into national museums
The estimated project cost is approximately ₹20,000 crore, with full completion expected by 2026.
Conclusion
Seva Teerth represents more than an infrastructural upgrade; it embodies an ideological repositioning of executive authority as service-oriented governance. Its long-term legitimacy, however, will depend on measurable improvements in administrative efficiency, transparency and citizen responsiveness.
