Union Minister Manohar Lal Inaugurates ‘Bharat Bodh Kendra’ at India Habitat Centre

On May 10, 2025, Union Housing and Urban Affairs Minister Manohar Lal inaugurated the ‘Bharat Bodh Kendra’ at the India Habitat Centre (IHC) in New Delhi. This new addition to IHC’s Habitat Library and Resource Centre is envisioned as a dedicated space for deepening the understanding of India’s cultural and civilisational heritage through curated books and resources related to art, philosophy, spirituality, and history.

Why in News?

The launch of the Bharat Bodh Kendra marks a significant step toward preserving and promoting India’s intangible heritage. The initiative comes at a time when there is a growing emphasis on cultural literacy, heritage education, and the need to create spaces for thoughtful engagement with India’s traditional knowledge systems.

Background & Objectives

• India Habitat Centre (IHC) in New Delhi is a well-known venue for intellectual and cultural discourse.
• The Habitat Library and Resource Centre (HLRC) serves as a public knowledge hub.
• The ‘Bharat Bodh Kendra’ is a new thematic section established under HLRC to strengthen cultural awareness.

Key Highlights of the Kendra

Curated collection on,

• Indian art, music, and architecture
• Spirituality and philosophy
• Ancient and modern Indian history
• Indigenous knowledge systems
• Offers a quiet and reflective space for reading, learning, and research.
• Open to all IHC members and scholars interested in cultural studies.

Statements by the Minister

Manohar Lal appreciated,

• IHC’s ongoing green initiatives
• Its efforts in promoting sustainable living

Suggested

• IHC adopt other institutions to replicate such eco-conscious practices.
• Expansion of Bharat Bodh-like models across the country.

Aims and Significance

• Promote awareness about India’s timeless traditions.
• Support the revival of interest in civilisational knowledge.
• Strengthen access to authentic cultural resources for public and academic audiences.
• Encourage interdisciplinary research on Indian heritage.