14 Feb 2026·Source: The Hindu

5 min

Polity & GovernanceNEWS

PM Modi inaugurates new PMO, emphasizes citizen-centric governance

New PMO reflects commitment to citizen-centric governance and national progress.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi inaugurated the new Prime Minister’s Office, named ‘Seva Teerth’, and two buildings of the Central Secretariat. He said the new buildings reflect the government’s commitment to citizen-centric governance and national progress. The historic structures such as South Block and North Block, which till now were housing important Ministries such as Defence, Home and Finance, besides the PMO, had been built to embody the ideals of the British Empire when the capital of British India was shifted to Delhi from Kolkata in 1912.

He said that in 2014, the country resolved that the colonial mindset would no longer continue. The Race Course Road, where the Prime Minister’s residence is located, was renamed Lok Kalyan Marg. Earlier, the Prime Minister signed files in the new PMO on the PM RAHAT Scheme, under which accident victims will get cashless treatment of up to ₹1.5 lakh, the doubling of target of Lakhpati Didis to six crore, and doubling the Agriculture Infrastructure Fund to ₹2 lakh crore.

He also released a commemorative stamp and coin on the occasion.

Key Facts

The new Prime Minister’s Office is named ‘Seva Teerth’.

Two buildings of the Central Secretariat, ‘Kartavya Bhavan 1 and 2’ were also inaugurated.

The new buildings reflect the government’s commitment to citizen-centric governance and national progress.

The historic South Block and North Block were built to embody the ideals of the British Empire.

The Race Course Road, where the Prime Minister’s residence is located, was renamed Lok Kalyan Marg.

The Prime Minister signed files in the new PMO on the PM RAHAT Scheme, doubling the target of Lakhpati Didis, and doubling the Agriculture Infrastructure Fund.

UPSC Exam Angles

GS Paper II: Governance, Constitution, Polity, Social Justice

Connects to syllabus topics like government policies, transparency, accountability, citizen charters

Potential question types: Statement-based, analytical, critical evaluation

In Simple Words

The Prime Minister opened new government offices. He said these new buildings show the government wants to focus on serving citizens and helping the country grow. The old offices were built by the British, but these new ones are meant to fulfill the dreams of the Indian people.

India Angle

This means government officials will now work in a place designed to help them serve the public better. For a farmer, this could mean quicker access to agricultural schemes. For a small business owner, it could mean faster approvals for loans.

For Instance

Think of it like a company moving from an old, inefficient office to a modern one with better technology and a more comfortable workspace. The goal is to improve productivity and make things easier for everyone involved.

It matters because the places where decisions are made can affect how well the government works for you. Better offices can lead to better policies and services.

New buildings, new mindset: Government aims to serve citizens better.

Visual Insights

Key Initiatives Launched

Highlights of the new initiatives launched by PM Modi.

PM RAHAT Scheme: Cashless Treatment Limit: ₹1.5 lakh
Lakhpati Didis Target: 6 crore
Agriculture Infrastructure Fund: ₹2 lakh crore

More Information

Background

The concept of a central secretariat in India dates back to the British colonial era. The shifting of the capital from Kolkata to Delhi in 1912 necessitated the creation of new administrative structures. The South Block and North Block, designed by Herbert Baker, were built to house key government ministries, embodying the power and grandeur of the British Empire. This history is important to understand the context of the recent inauguration of the new PMO and Central Secretariat buildings, which aim to move away from this colonial legacy. The ideals of governance have evolved significantly since India's independence. The focus has shifted from a top-down, bureaucratic approach to a more citizen-centric model. This transition is reflected in initiatives like e-governance, direct benefit transfer (DBT), and the emphasis on transparency and accountability. The renaming of Race Course Road to Lok Kalyan Marg symbolizes this shift towards public welfare and citizen empowerment. The new PMO, named 'Seva Teerth', further reinforces this commitment to serving the people. Several constitutional provisions and government initiatives underpin the concept of citizen-centric governance. The Right to Information Act (RTI Act) empowers citizens to access information from public authorities, promoting transparency. The principles of good governance, as enshrined in various government policies and programs, emphasize accountability, responsiveness, and efficiency. The Directive Principles of State Policy in the Constitution also guide the government towards achieving social and economic justice for all citizens. Comparing India's administrative structures with those of other countries reveals different approaches to governance. Some countries have adopted decentralized models, empowering local governments and promoting citizen participation at the grassroots level. Others have focused on streamlining bureaucratic processes and leveraging technology to improve service delivery. India's journey towards citizen-centric governance involves adapting best practices from around the world while addressing its unique challenges and complexities.

Latest Developments

The inauguration of the new PMO and Central Secretariat buildings is part of the Central Vista Redevelopment Project. This project aims to modernize and consolidate government infrastructure in Delhi. It has faced criticism regarding its environmental impact, cost, and the need for such a large-scale project during a pandemic. The project also involves the construction of a new Parliament building and the renovation of existing structures. The emphasis on citizen-centric governance aligns with the government's broader agenda of improving public service delivery and promoting transparency. Initiatives like MyGov and DigiLocker are designed to enhance citizen engagement and provide access to government services online. The government is also focusing on streamlining bureaucratic processes and reducing red tape to improve efficiency and responsiveness. Looking ahead, the government is expected to continue its efforts to promote citizen-centric governance through various initiatives. This includes leveraging technology to improve service delivery, promoting transparency and accountability, and empowering citizens to participate in the decision-making process. The success of these efforts will depend on effective implementation, collaboration between different government agencies, and active citizen participation. However, challenges remain in achieving true citizen-centric governance. These include addressing issues of digital divide, ensuring equitable access to services for all citizens, and overcoming bureaucratic inertia. The government needs to address these challenges effectively to realize its vision of a truly citizen-centric and responsive governance system.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. What is the significance of naming the new PMO 'Seva Teerth'?

The name 'Seva Teerth' signifies the government's commitment to citizen-centric governance and service to the nation. It reflects a shift in focus towards serving the people.

2. What are the key facts about the new PMO and Central Secretariat buildings for UPSC Prelims?

Key facts include the name of the new PMO ('Seva Teerth'), the names of the Central Secretariat buildings ('Kartavya Bhavan 1 and 2'), and the emphasis on citizen-centric governance. Also remember the renaming of Race Course Road to Lok Kalyan Marg.

Exam Tip

Focus on names and their significance for potential matching questions.

3. How does the inauguration of the new PMO relate to the idea of decolonization of governance?

The inauguration is presented as a move away from the colonial mindset, as the old buildings (North and South Block) symbolized British imperial power. The new buildings are intended to reflect a focus on national progress and citizen-centric governance, moving away from colonial ideals.

4. What is the historical background of the Central Secretariat buildings in Delhi?

The Central Secretariat buildings, including North and South Block, were constructed after the capital of British India shifted from Kolkata to Delhi in 1912. They were designed to represent the power and grandeur of the British Empire.

5. Why is the inauguration of the new PMO and Central Secretariat buildings in the news recently?

The inauguration is part of the Central Vista Redevelopment Project, which aims to modernize government infrastructure. This project has generated significant public debate regarding its necessity, cost, and environmental impact.

6. What are the potential benefits and drawbacks of the Central Vista Redevelopment Project, including the new PMO?

Benefits include modernized infrastructure and improved efficiency. Drawbacks include high costs, environmental concerns, and the disruption caused by construction. Some argue the funds could be better used for other pressing needs.

7. How might the new PMO and Central Secretariat buildings impact the common citizen?

Ideally, improved infrastructure and a focus on citizen-centric governance should lead to more efficient and responsive public services. However, the cost of the project and potential environmental impacts could negatively affect citizens.

8. What are some other government initiatives mentioned alongside the PMO inauguration?

Alongside the inauguration, the doubling of the target of Lakhpati Didis, cashless treatment for accident victims under the PM RAHAT Scheme (₹1.5 lakh), and doubling the Agriculture Infrastructure Fund (₹2 lakh crore) were mentioned.

9. What is the significance of renaming Race Course Road to Lok Kalyan Marg?

Renaming Race Course Road to Lok Kalyan Marg symbolizes a shift away from colonial-era names and towards names that reflect public welfare and citizen-centric governance.

10. How can the concept of citizen-centric governance be applied in practice, according to the PM's message?

The PM's message suggests that citizen-centric governance involves modernizing infrastructure, improving efficiency, and prioritizing public welfare in all government actions. The new PMO and Central Secretariat buildings are intended to facilitate this approach.

Practice Questions (MCQs)

1. Consider the following statements regarding the recent inauguration of the new PMO, 'Seva Teerth': 1. It is part of the Central Vista Redevelopment Project. 2. It signifies a shift towards citizen-centric governance. 3. The Prime Minister also inaugurated new buildings for the Supreme Court along with the PMO. Which of the statements given above is/are correct?

A.1 and 2 only
B.2 and 3 only
C.1 and 3 only
D.1, 2 and 3

Show Answer

Answer: A

Statement 1 is CORRECT: The new PMO, 'Seva Teerth', is indeed part of the Central Vista Redevelopment Project, which aims to modernize government infrastructure in Delhi. Statement 2 is CORRECT: The inauguration of 'Seva Teerth' and the emphasis on citizen-centric governance reflect a shift towards prioritizing public welfare and citizen empowerment. Statement 3 is INCORRECT: The Prime Minister inaugurated new buildings of the Central Secretariat, not the Supreme Court. The Supreme Court has its own separate building complex.

2. Which of the following initiatives is/are aimed at promoting citizen-centric governance in India? 1. Right to Information Act (RTI Act) 2. MyGov platform 3. PM RAHAT Scheme Select the correct answer using the code given below:

A.1 and 2 only
B.2 and 3 only
C.1 and 3 only
D.1, 2 and 3

Show Answer

Answer: D

Statement 1 is CORRECT: The Right to Information Act (RTI Act) empowers citizens to access information from public authorities, promoting transparency and accountability. Statement 2 is CORRECT: The MyGov platform facilitates citizen engagement in government decision-making processes. Statement 3 is CORRECT: The PM RAHAT Scheme, as mentioned in the news, provides cashless treatment to accident victims, demonstrating a citizen-centric approach to healthcare.

3. With reference to the Agriculture Infrastructure Fund (AIF), consider the following statements: 1. The Prime Minister recently doubled the fund allocation to ₹2 lakh crore. 2. The fund aims to improve post-harvest management infrastructure and community farming assets. 3. The scheme provides financial assistance to individual farmers only. Which of the statements given above is/are correct?

A.1 and 2 only
B.2 and 3 only
C.1 and 3 only
D.1, 2 and 3

Show Answer

Answer: A

Statement 1 is CORRECT: The news mentions that the Prime Minister doubled the Agriculture Infrastructure Fund to ₹2 lakh crore. Statement 2 is CORRECT: The AIF indeed aims to improve post-harvest management infrastructure and community farming assets. Statement 3 is INCORRECT: The scheme provides financial assistance not only to individual farmers but also to farmer producer organizations (FPOs), PACS, and other eligible entities.

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