The Impressive TimesNew Delhi, April 22, 2025: Hon’ble Speaker of the Delhi Legislative Assembly, Shri Vijender Gupta, today convened a key meeting with leading experts and officials to initiate the development of a comprehensive heritage and conservation plan for the iconic Delhi Legislative Assembly building — a site of profound historical and national significance. Notably, the Delhi Vidhan Sabha served as the first Parliament of Independent India.
As part of the heritage initiative, the Indira Gandhi National Centre for the Arts (IGNCA) will submit its feasibility report within three weeks. A dedicated committee will be constituted to oversee the project’s progress. The plan also envisions the development of a light and sound show to celebrate the legacy of the Assembly, along with the production of a documentary film to chronicle its historical and democratic significance. Additionally, a museum will be constructed to preserve and showcase the Assembly’s rich heritage.
The meeting was aimed at formulating a roadmap to elevate the Assembly as a site of national heritage importance. It also emphasized the need to preserve traditional architectural skills and techniques employed in its original construction, thereby honouring the craftsmanship of earlier generations. The ultimate goal is to transform the Assembly premises into a destination of historical and cultural eminence, capable of attracting dignitaries, delegates, and visitors from across the globe.
Present at the meeting were eminent personalities from the fields of heritage conservation and engineering, including Dr. Sachchidanand Joshi, Member Secretary, Indira Gandhi National Centre for the Arts (IGNCA); Dr Ramesh C. Gaur DEAN (IGNCA); Dr. B.R. Mani, Director General, National Museum; Dr. Achal Pandya, Head of Conservation and Kaladarsana at IGNCA; Sh. Jitender Yadav , Additional Commissioner (Heritage Cell); Sh. Krishna Kumar Singh, Superintending Engineer, Central & New Delhi Maintenance Circle; and Sh. Sanjeev Kumar, Executive Engineer (Heritage Cell), Municipal Corporation of Delhi (MCD).
During the meeting, detailed discussions were held on how to implement a holistic approach that combines modern conservation methodologies with traditional heritage values. The experts shared their perspectives on preserving the integrity of the original structure while enhancing the experience for visitors and stakeholders alike.
Shri Vijender Gupta expressed his vision of transforming the Assembly into a “living heritage site,” symbolizing both the historical evolution of democratic governance in India and the rich cultural legacy of Delhi. He emphasized the importance of such initiatives in fostering national pride and educating younger generations. As part of this vision, he proposed opening the Assembly to the general public on weekends, allowing them to engage with the nation’s architectural and democratic heritage.
This meeting marks the first step in what is expected to be a multi-phase heritage development project. It will involve detailed planning, architectural assessments, structural restoration, and curated cultural displays to reflect the site’s national significance.
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