India, France Forge Ahead with Plans for World's Largest National Museum in Delhi

France has committed to a significant partnership with India in the development of the new National Museum in Delhi, an initiative that underscores the deepening cultural ties between the two nations. This collaboration was highlighted during discussions between French officials and a team of experts who recently visited the museum's future site, as per the French Embassy in India's announcement.

The Yuge Yugeen Bharat National Museum, poised to be the world's largest museum, will feature eight thematic segments that narrate India's rich history over 5,000 years. Planned to be situated in Delhi's North Block and South Block, the museum will span an impressive area of 1.17 lakh sqm and include 950 rooms across a basement and three floors.

Aurélien Lechevallier, Director General for Global Affairs and Cultural and Economic Diplomacy, along with a delegation, explored the site for the upcoming museum. This visit follows a joint statement made in May 2022, after a letter of intent on museum and heritage cooperation was signed on 28 January 2020. Both countries expressed their intention to explore France's role as a 'knowledge partner' in this ambitious project.

The partnership was further solidified during Prime Minister Narendra Modi's visit to France in July 2023, where both nations agreed on France's contribution through its national agency, France Muséums Développement. This collaboration aims not only at the development and management of museums but also at conservation practices, artifact display techniques, and enhancing visitor experiences.

Lechevallier's visit also coincided with his participation in the Governing Council meeting of the Coalition for Disaster Resilient Infrastructure (CDRI), marking a step forward in Indo-French cooperation on culture and global commons. His appointment as Co-chair of CDRI's Governing Council for 2024-2026 reflects France's active engagement in global environmental and cultural initiatives.

This partnership is part of a broader framework under the "Partnership for the Planet" pillar of the France-India Horizon 2047 Roadmap, adopted by President Macron and Prime Minister Modi. It signifies both countries' commitment to advancing global cohesion and addressing common challenges through cultural and environmental cooperation.

The collaboration between India and France on the National Museum project not only highlights their shared values but also their dedication to preserving and promoting cultural heritage for future generations. This initiative is a testament to the strength of Indo-French relations and their joint efforts towards creating sustainable and resilient infrastructures.