The long-awaited restoration of the 168-year-old heritage building of the College of Agriculture, Nagpur, under Dr Panjabrao Deshmukh Krishi Vidyapeeth (PDKV), has finally begun. The conservation work commenced in January 2026 and is being executed by Savani Heritage Conservation Pvt. Ltd., a leading Indian firm specialising in heritage restoration that has successfully conserved over 300 historic structures and earned 12 UNESCO awards. ‘The Hitavada’ has been raising the issue of the renovation of the building. A detailed report regarding it appeared in 2021. Located in the heart of Maharajbag, the iconic red-and-white building is one of Nagpur’s most recognisable heritage landmarks. While its majestic exterior continues to inspire pride among citizens, the condition of the structure from within had become a matter of serious concern after decades of inadequate maintenance and repairs. The building houses lecture halls, administrative offices, classrooms, the historic Victoria Technical Institute (VTI) Hall, and the VTI Scientific Library, which contains thousands of valuable books, journals, and rare publications.

 

However, years of neglect had left the structure vulnerable, raising fears about its long-term preservation and safety. The restoration project aims to preserve the building’s original architectural character. A total of 1,200 sq metres area is being covered. Damaged roof tiles have been removed and replaced with specially designed metal sheets that replicate the appearance of traditional tiles. The original lime-plastered walls and sandstone flooring, which remain structurally sound, are being retained. Repair work is being carried out using traditional lime mortar prepared from lime, sand, brick powder, black gram (urad dal), jaggery, guggal, edible gum, and bael fruit, in keeping with heritage conservation practices. Associate Dean Dr Prakash Kadu said that, maintaining the authenticity of the structure is the primary objective of the project.

 

“The heritage structure remains strong and beautiful. We do not want to disturb its originality. Within the next five to six months, the building will regain its former glory,” he said. Given the historical significance of the structure, restoration work is being undertaken with minimal use of heavy machinery. Special iron frameworks have been erected to manually transport materials to higher levels, while controlled waste disposal systems have been installed to prevent damage to the building. Efforts at conservation date back several years: In 2015, the college administration commissioned a structural audit, which estimated the restoration cost at approximately Rs 22 crore.

 

According to official records, the heritage structure was originally built in 1858 during British rule. In 1906, the British Government established the College of Agriculture, Nagpur, making it one of the first five agricultural colleges in India. After the formation of agricultural universities, the college became affiliated with Dr Panjabrao Deshmukh Krishi Vidyapeeth, Akola, in 1969. The commencement of restoration work marks a significant milestone in preserving one of Nagpur’s most treasured landmarks. Once completed, the project is expected to restore the grandeur of this historic institution, while safeguarding its legacy for future generations.