As the five-day special session of Parliament commences on Monday, the government has disclosed that the House proceedings will shift to the new Parliament building starting on Tuesday. The new building had gathered much attention when it was inaugurated by PM Modi on May 28, 2023. The Prime Minister had held traditional prayers outside the complex in a ceremony that was also attended by top cabinet ministers.
Constructed with an estimated expenditure of Rs 970 crore, the newly built four-story structure spans approximately 65,000 square meters and will exhibit an impressive assortment of nearly 5,000 art pieces.
What are the key characteristics of the new Parliament building?
The official Central Vista project website highlights the new Parliament building as a reflection of the aspirations of India’s vast population of 135 crores. This modern structure will coexist harmoniously with the existing Parliament House, enhancing operational efficiency.
Here are the notable features of the new Parliament building:
Optimized Space Utilisation: With a built-up area of approximately 65,000 square meters and a unique triangular design, the building ensures efficient space utilization.
Enhanced Capacity: The new structure will accommodate a larger Lok Sabha hall with a capacity of up to 888 seats and a Rajya Sabha hall capable of seating up to 384 members. For joint sessions of Parliament, the Lok Sabha may accommodate up to 1,272 seats.
Symbolic Themes: The Lok Sabha hall is designed around the peacock theme, representing India’s national bird, while the Rajya Sabha hall features the lotus theme, symbolizing India’s national flower.
Constitutional Hall: A state-of-the-art Constitutional Hall will position Indian citizens at the core of the democratic process, both symbolically and physically.
Modern Office Spaces: The building features ultra-modern office spaces equipped with the latest communication technology, ensuring security and efficiency.
Advanced Committee Rooms: Large committee rooms are equipped with cutting-edge audio-visual equipment, offering an improved library experience.
Environmental Sustainability: Designed as a “Platinum-rated Green Building,” the new Sansad Bhavan demonstrates India’s commitment to environmental sustainability.
Cultural Integration: The new Parliament building will serve as a representation of Indian heritage, incorporating the vibrance and diversity of modern India, including cultural and regional arts and crafts.
Accessibility: It is divyang (specially-abled) friendly, allowing people with disabilities to move around freely within the premises.
Central Lounge and Courtyard: A Central Lounge will provide members with a space for interaction, complementing the open courtyard which will feature a banyan tree, India’s national tree.
In summary, the construction of the new Parliament building aims to meet the evolving needs of India’s democracy, providing modern facilities while respecting the nation’s heritage and promoting sustainability and inclusivity.