India’s Parliament Shifts to Grand New Edifice: A Symbol of Modernity and Heritage.

India's Parliament Shifts to Grand New Edifice: A Symbol of Modernity and Heritage.

Asif Iqbal | September 19, 2023 | 03:36 AM IST | Breaking News, Delhi, Politics | Follow on Google News

India’s Parliament Shifts to Grand New Edifice: A Symbol of Modernity and Heritage. Pic/NDTV

The Indian parliament has embarked on a momentous journey today by transitioning from the beloved circular Lutyens building to the colossal lion-capped triangular edifice on Central Vista, which stands as an emblem of a New India. This monumental shift marks a significant chapter in India’s parliamentary history, combining modernity with a rich cultural heritage.

A Historic Transition

After a moving photo session and a memorable gathering in the Central Hall of the old parliament building, Prime Minister Narendra Modi led the way to the new Parliament House, clutching a copy of the Constitution. Following suit, all the Members of Parliament joined him, converging at their designated chambers within the new parliamentary complex.

Honoring Parliamentary Veterans

Notably, former Prime Minister Manmohan Singh, JMM leader Shibu Soren, and BJP MP Maneka Gandhi graced the special function in the Central Hall of Parliament as the seniormost parliamentarians. The 96-year-old building, inaugurated in 1927, holds a special place in India’s history, witnessing Jawaharlal Nehru’s iconic “midnight hour” speech and the adoption of the Constitution. However, it had become inadequate in the face of contemporary needs, particularly regarding modern info-tech facilities and office space for MPs.

Preserving Architectural Heritage

The iconic building, designed by British architects Sir Edwin Lutyens and Herbert Baker, will be meticulously preserved as an invaluable archaeological asset of the nation. This decision reflects a commitment to honoring India’s rich architectural heritage.

A Vision for the Future

In his inaugural address during the special parliamentary session, Prime Minister Modi conveyed a message of hope for the future. He paid tribute to the 7,500 MPs who have served within its historic walls, acknowledging the contribution of every brick to the nation’s legacy. He also underscored the significant milestones achieved in the last nine years, such as the abrogation of Article 370 and the introduction of the “One Nation One Tax” GST.

Modern Infrastructure and Cultural Showcase

The new parliament building, situated on Kartavya Path in the heart of Delhi, was unveiled by Prime Minister Modi in May. It boasts impressive seating capacity with room for 888 members in the Lok Sabha chamber and 300 in the Rajya Sabha chamber. Furthermore, for joint sittings of both houses, up to 1,280 MPs can be accommodated in the Lok Sabha chamber.

Each Member of Parliament will soon enjoy a spacious 40 sq m office space in the redeveloped Shram Shakti Bhawan, a project set for completion in 2024. The transfer of the national archives from the old building to the new one is also on the horizon.

The four-storey structure encompasses a vast built-up area of 64,500 square meters and features three main gates – Gyan Dwar, Shakti Dwar, and Karma Dwar – each with separate entrances for VIPs, MPs, and visitors. Adorning the walls is “Jan Janani Janmabhoomi,” a mural created by grassroots artists. The building also houses three galleries dedicated to music, crafts, and architecture, showcasing India’s rich cultural heritage. Contributions from artisans and sculptors from across the country have added to the grandeur, making it a testament to India’s glorious past and promising future.

Asif Iqbal

Asif Iqbal is a seasoned news writer with a passion for delivering the latest updates to the public. Currently serving as the senior writer at VoM News, a prominent news outlet known for its comprehensive coverage of diverse topics, Asif has established himself as a reliable source of information. With a keen eye for detail and a knack for storytelling, he consistently provides readers with well-crafted articles that cover a wide range of news categories. His dedication to journalistic integrity and his commitment to staying ahead of the news curve make him an invaluable asset to Vom News, ensuring that readers are always well-informed on the issues that matter most. You can find his work and stay updated on current events by visiting vomnews.in.