Rashtrapati Bhavan Just Unveiled a Major Transformation-Here's What's Changing

NEW DELHI — President Droupadi Murmu on July 28, 2026, launched a comprehensive series of citizen-centric, green mobility, and child welfare initiatives at Rashtrapati Bhavan. Marking the completion of four years of her presidency on July 25, 2026, the measures aim to transform the presidential estate into an inclusive, accessible, and environmentally sustainable complex under the vision of making it a true People's House (Rashtra Ka Bhavan).

Sustainable Transit and Inclusive Infrastructure

Among the primary developments, President Murmu flagged off RAAHI (Rashtrapati Bhavan Access And Heritage Interconnector), a fare-free electric bus service. Designed to promote green urban mobility, the 27-seater zero-emission vehicle connects staff and residents across the President’s Estate directly to the nearest Metro station.

To strengthen gender inclusion, the transit service is operated exclusively by women drivers and conductors. The bus features full wheelchair accessibility to support senior citizens, children, and persons with disabilities (Divyangjan).

In alignment with national climate goals, President Murmu also laid the foundation stone for a new Service Block constructed under the Rashtrapati Bhavan Net Zero Energy Strategy. Additional construction projects include redeveloped staff quarters and upgraded facilities at retreat locations in Dehradun (Rashtrapati Niketan) and Secunderabad (Rashtrapati Nilayam).

Enhanced Accessibility and Child Welfare

To modernise the experience for domestic and international tourists, the President launched an application-based e-Audio Guide. The digital service supports Hindi, English, 14 regional Indian languages, and an integrated Indian Sign Language module to broaden accessibility for visually and hearing-impaired visitors.

For the welfare of families residing on the campus, the presidential complex inaugurated Bachpan 'Bal Parisar'. This facility integrates two key centers:

• Kilkari: A structured, safe play zone for young children.

• Samarth Anganwadi-cum-Palna: A day-care and child development center designed to assist working parents across the estate.

E-Upahaar Public Auction Returns for Third Edition

The ceremony also marked the official announcement of the third edition of e-Upahaar, an online public auction of 300 curated gifts received by President Murmu. Scheduled to run from August 5 to September 5, 2026, the auction allows citizens, collectors, and art enthusiasts to bid on historical mementos online.

Proceeds generated from the e-Upahaar platform will directly fund social welfare projects and community development programs.

Official Sources Section

According to official releases from the Press Information Bureau (PIB) and updates from the President's Secretariat, all newly launched services are operational as of late July 2026, with public auction portals opening in early August 2026.

Quote Section

Speaking at the event, officials emphasized the democratic intent behind the projects:

"It has been a constant endeavour to ensure that Rashtrapati Bhavan stands as a vibrant symbol of India's rich traditions, democratic values, and national ideals — bringing the presidency closer to every citizen."

Why It Matters

The introduction of zero-emission public transport, Net-Zero architectural planning, and universal sign-language-supported visitor tools establishes a high operational standard for historic government estates across Asia. By shifting public interaction toward digital platforms like e-Upahaar and e-Audio Guides, the institution reduces its ecological footprint while expanding public entry and democratic engagement.

Key Facts at a Glance

• Fare-Free Green Transit: RAAHI electric bus service launched with all-women operational staff and full wheelchair accessibility.

• Multilingual Visitor Tools: E-Audio Guide app released featuring 16 languages plus dedicated Indian Sign Language support.

• Public Gift Auction: 300 curated presidential gifts slated for online bidding between August 5 and September 5, 2026.

• Decarbonisation Target: Foundation stone laid for a Net-Zero Energy Service Block on the President's Estate.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

How can the public access the e-Audio Guide when visiting Rashtrapati Bhavan?

Visitors can download the e-Audio Guide application directly onto their mobile devices upon arrival or during tour booking. It offers commentary in 16 languages and Indian Sign Language.

Who can participate in the e-Upahaar gift auction?

Any citizen or registered bidder can participate in the public online auction by visiting the official portal at upahaar.rashtrapatibhavan.gov.in during the active window of August 5 to September 5, 2026.

Is the RAAHI electric bus open to general city commuters?

No, the RAAHI electric bus service is tailored specifically for the staff, residents, and visitors navigating the President's Estate, connecting them directly to nearby Metro transit nodes.

Source: President's Secretariat, Press Information Bureau (PIB), Ministry of Housing and Urban Affairs