Odisha Media Delegation: A media delegation from Odisha, currently on an exposure visit to Himachal Pradesh, visited the historic Rashtrapati Niwas at Mashobra near Shimla today. The estate serves as the summer retreat of the President of India and stands as a significant heritage landmark.
During the visit, Shri Ajay Bhardwaj, Officer of Rashtrapati Niwas, briefed the delegation on the historical and architectural importance of the site. He informed that the Rashtrapati Niwas comprises a 16-room residential facility for the President and is spread across nearly 180 acres of scenic landscape.
Shri Bhardwaj highlighted the property’s rich legacy, stating that it is over 176 years old and existed prior to British rule, serving as a royal residence. When Shimla was declared the summer capital during the British era, the premises was used to house senior officials. Following independence, the estate was converted into the President’s summer residence.
He also mentioned, the site was opened to the general public in 2023, as desired by the President Smt. Droupadi Murmu, emphasizing greater access to national heritage assets. He added that all the Presidents have stayed at this residence during their terms. The delegation explored the premises and gained insights into its heritage value.
The team also visited the ICAR-Central Potato Research Institute’s Regional Station at Kufri-Fagu, where they were briefed on ongoing research, innovations, and processing initiatives in potato cultivation.
The visit is organized by PIB Bhubaneswar to acquaint journalists with Central Government initiatives, projects and important institutes. The delegation constitutes Manoj Kumar Jali, Deputy Director and Swadhin Shakti Prasad, Media & Communication Officer, PIB Bhubaneswar and media representatives from Odisha.
