Idea to let out NMC to earn revenue turned down

NEW DELHI: Can the swanky National Media Centre situated on Raisina Road be opened up for public use to earn revenue? This suggestion of the I&B Ministry has got a quick burial given the tendency of the Modi government for last-minute announcements.

I&B Secretary Bimal Julka had recently asked the Press Information Bureau to look into the possibilities of opening NMC to public use which would enable the organisation to earn revenue. NMC has an enviable location, next to Hotel Le Meridien and Shangri-La. The idea was to offer NMCs conference halls and auditorium for private events. A committee of officers was set up to explore if it was feasible.

ET has learnt the panel is of the view that government holds press conferences at short notice often and hence subsequent cancellations of reservation given for private use could lead to litigation, loss of face and a bad name for the government. The panel views opening up of the NMC building — which has offices in charge of publicising activities of the PMO, finance and home ministry — would compromise security.