PM Modi inaugurates Kartavya Bhavan in New Delhi

Prime Minister Narendra Modi inaugurated Kartavya Bhavan in Delhi on Wednesday, advancing the Centre’s plan to streamline governance by housing key ministries under one roof.

The Prime Minister was accompanied by Union Housing and Urban Affairs Minister Manohar Lal Khattar during an inspection of the new facility located at Kartavya Path.

Also referred to as Central Secretariat Building–3, Kartavya Bhavan is the first among several upcoming Common Central Secretariat buildings envisioned to enhance inter-ministerial coordination, accelerate policy implementation, and improve administrative efficiency, the Prime Minister’s Office (PMO) said in a statement.

At present, several key ministries operate from ageing structures such as Shastri Bhawan, Krishi Bhawan, Udyog Bhawan, and Nirman Bhawan, built between the 1950s and 1970s. These outdated buildings are marked by high maintenance costs and operational inefficiencies.

The newly inaugurated complex spans approximately 1.5 lakh square metres, spread across two basements and seven floors. It will house the Ministries and Departments of Home Affairs, External Affairs, Rural Development, MSME, DoPT, Petroleum and Natural Gas, and the Principal Scientific Adviser.

Designed with a focus on sustainability and digital readiness, the building features IT-enabled secure workspaces, integrated surveillance, ID card-based access control, and a central command system. It aims to achieve a Green Rating for Integrated Habitat Assessment (GRIHA)-4 green rating through features such as double-glazed facades, rooftop solar panels, advanced HVAC systems, and rainwater harvesting.

The campus follows a zero-discharge model, with systems in place for wastewater treatment, solid waste processing, and the use of recycled construction materials. Special glass facades help reduce heat and noise, while motion-sensor LED lighting, smart lifts, and an advanced energy management system contribute to a projected 30 percent reduction in energy consumption.

According to the PMO, the rooftop solar installation is expected to generate over 5.34 lakh units of electricity annually, while solar water heaters will meet more than a quarter of daily hot water needs. EV charging stations are also part of the facility.

Later in the evening, PM Modi is scheduled to address a public programme at Kartavya Path at around 6:30 PM, the statement added.