At the signing ceremony of the Yuga Yugeen Bharat National Museum collaboration between India’s National Museum and France Museums Development, External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar expressed optimism about the cultural partnership between the two nations. The upcoming museum, he said, would be a symbol of India-France cooperation, showcasing India’s rich tradition through modern technology.
In a post on X, Jaishankar highlighted the importance of this national project, stating, “Pleased to join the signing ceremony between National Museum in New Delhi and France Museums Development for the upcoming Yuga Yugeen Bharat National Museum. Advancing a project of significant national importance, it will highlight India-France cultural collaboration. With confidence, it is expected that the museum will blend tradition with technology, showcasing global best practices to present our glorious past.
Jaishankar also reaffirmed the strong India-France relationship, noting that both countries view each other as important poles in a multipolar world. He described the partnership as robust and emphasized its global significance.
French Ambassador to India, Thierry Mathou, showed full support for Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s vision, particularly for cultural exchange, stating that France shares India’s cultural aspirations. He expressed, “France is eager to embrace Prime Minister Modi’s vision. We also share the same vision for culture.”
The Yuga Yugeen Bharat National Museum, conceived as a tribute to India’s continuous civilizational journey, was initially proposed by the Prime Minister at the International Museum Expo in May 2023 and later emphasized during the inauguration of Bharat Mandapam in July. As part of this endeavor, India and France will conduct a detailed feasibility study, covering museum case studies, interpretive planning, and building programs, according to a statement from the Ministry of Culture.
This collaboration strengthens the cultural ties between the two nations, drawing on France’s expertise in museum development, as seen with the Grand Louvre. The project also involves adapting the historic North and South Blocks, preserving their architectural legacy while creating a modern, efficient cultural space.
