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Last Cabinet Meet in South Block as India Moves to Seva Teerth, Sheds Colonial Past

The Union Cabinet held its final meeting in the historic South Block, a building constructed by the British for colonial administration. Union Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw announced the shift, highlighting the move away from colonial-era traditions and infrastructure. This follows Prime Minister Narendra Modi's dedication of the new 'Seva Teerth' complex, which will house the PMO and other key national security and governance bodies. The Prime Minister emphasized that shedding the colonial mindset is vital for India's journey towards becoming a developed nation, or 'Viksit Bharat'.

Key Points: Last Cabinet Meeting in South Block as India Moves to Seva Teerth

  • Final cabinet briefing in South Block
  • Seva Teerth houses PMO, NSCS & Cabinet Secretariat
  • Move away from British colonial symbols
  • Part of creating a 'Viksit Bharat'
2 min read

Union Cabinet meeting concludes for last time in South Block: Ashwini Vaishnaw highlights moving away from British traditions

Union Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw announces the final cabinet briefing in South Block, marking India's move from British-era buildings to the new Seva Teerth complex.

"We are happy that today, union cabinet meeting is being held in this office of the South Block for the very last time. - Ashwini Vaishnaw"

New Delhi, February 14

Union Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw on Saturday said that this is the last media briefing of the Union Cabinet that Prime Minister Narendra Modi dedicated the "Seva Teerth" complex to the nation, which was inaugurated earlier on Friday.

Seva Teerth houses the Prime Minister's Office, the National Security Council Secretariat, and the Cabinet Secretariat, all of which were previously located across different locations.

Vaishnaw added that the South and North Blocks were built by the British to maintain colonial rule in India, and that we are happy that today marked the last Union Cabinet meeting to be held in the South Block.

During the media briefing on Union Cabinet decisions, which was held for the last time in the previously known South block building, Vaishnaw said, "On 13th February 2026, PM Narendra Modi dedicated the new PMO office, 'Seva Teerth', to the nation. The South and North blocks were built by the British to maintain colonial rule in India. In 1947, India attained freedom, but the then-government continued using these buildings for its work."

"Ever since independence, PMO has been working from the office in South Block. We are happy that today, union cabinet meeting is being held in this office of the South Block for the very last time," he said.

A day earlier, PM Modi inaugurated Seva Teerth and Kartavya Bhavan-1 and 2 in the national capital and said these buildings have been built to fulfil the aspirations of the people of the country.

Speaking on the occasion, the Prime Minister said that a new history is being made and the day has become a witness to a new beginning in India's development journey.

He said that as the country moves towards a Viksit Bharat, it is vital that India sheds every trace of a colonial mindset.

The Prime Minister emphasised that in the scriptures, Vijaya Ekadashi has held great significance, as the resolve taken on this day always leads to victory.

He said that with the resolve of a developed India, all are entering the Seva Teerth and Kartavya Bhavan. He underlined that the divine blessings for victory in this goal are with them. He extended congratulations to everyone, including the PMO team, the Cabinet Secretariat, and employees of various departments, on Seva Teerth and the new buildings. He expressed gratitude to all engineers and worker colleagues associated with their construction.

- ANI

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Reader Comments

P
Priya S
While the sentiment is good, I hope the focus remains on actual governance and public service. New buildings are fine, but what matters is the work done inside them. Let's hope 'Seva Teerth' lives up to its name and delivers real 'seva' to the people.
R
Rohit P
Finally! Those old blocks were a constant reminder of our colonial past. Good to see us creating our own legacy. Having PMO, NSCS, and Cabinet Secretariat under one roof should improve coordination. Jai Hind!
S
Sarah B
As someone who has visited Delhi, the South Block is an iconic part of Lutyens' Delhi. I understand the symbolic break, but I hope the historical architecture is preserved and put to good public use. It's part of the city's heritage.
V
Vikram M
The timing with Vijaya Ekadashi is a thoughtful touch, connecting modern governance with our cultural roots. 'Kartavya Bhavan' and 'Seva Teerth' are powerful names that set the right tone for the administration. A step towards a truly 'Viksit Bharat'.
K
Karthik V
Practical question: What happens to the old buildings now? Will they become museums? Offices for other departments? Hope there's a clear plan that doesn't let such prime real estate in the heart of Delhi go to waste.
A

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