Range of gifts to be auctioned, including sports memorabilia and cultural treasures
The auction will feature over 600 gifts received by the prime minister, including sports memorabilia from the 2024 Paralympic Games, replicas of the Ram Temple, a silver veena, and more.The combined base price for all these items is estimated to be Rs.1.5 crore, according to Culture Minister Gajendra Singh Shekhawat. The base prices of the mementos range from Rs.600 to Rs.8.26 lakh.
Base prices set by government committee
A government committee has determined the base prices for the gifts. During a walk-through of the exhibition at the National Gallery of Modern Art, where the gifts are displayed, Minister Shekhawat noted that Prime Minister Modi has continued his practice of auctioning gifts, a tradition he began while serving as the chief minister. Proceeds from the auction will go toward the Namami Gange Project, which is dedicated to the cleaning and conservation of the Ganga River.
Sixth edition of PM Modi’s e-auction
This auction is the sixth in a series that began in January 2019. In the five previous editions, the auctions have raised over Rs.50 crore. As with previous auctions, the funds generated from this auction will support the Namami Gange Project. The minister urged the public to participate, emphasising that this initiative contributes to environmental conservation and public welfare.
Collection of traditional and religious artefacts
The auction includes a wide array of traditional art forms, sculptures, indigenous handicrafts, and religious artefacts. Among the standout items are temple models, statues of Hindu deities, and unique works like Pichwai paintings, Khaadi shawls, and Silver Filigree art. The auction highlights India’s rich cultural heritage through these exquisite pieces.
High-value items include Paralympic Memorabilia and Ram Temple model
Some of the highest-priced items in the auction include sports shoes from Paralympic medalists Ajeet Singh, Simran Sharma, and Nishad Kumar, which have a base price of Rs.2.86 lakh. Other significant pieces include a badminton racket from Paralympic medalists, valued at Rs.5.50 lakh, and a model of the Ram Temple, also priced at Rs.5.50 lakh. Additionally, a peacock statue is priced at Rs.3.30 lakh, a Ram Darbar statue at Rs.2.76 lakh, and a silver veena at Rs.1.65 lakh.
Affordable items for public participation
In addition to the high-value items, there are also lower-priced mementos to encourage public participation. The most affordable gifts include cotton angavastram, caps, and shawls, each priced at Rs.600, making the auction accessible to a wider audience while contributing to a noble cause.
Those interested can register and participate via the official website at https://pmmementos.gov.in/
Step-by-step process for buyers to participate in the PM Mementos Portal online auction
Step 1: Register
- Click on the “Buyer Signup” button located at the top right corner of the PM Mementos Portal home page.
- Enter your Mobile Number, Email Address, and Password on the Signup Page.
- Agree to the auction terms and conditions by ticking the checkbox.
- Enter the OTP sent to your registered Mobile Number and Email Address.
- Complete the registration by providing details such as Name, Gender, Date of Birth, and Address on the Profile Details page.
- Review the information and click “Submit.”
- A confirmation message will display saying “Successfully Signed up.”
Step 2: Login
- Log into the portal using your email address or mobile number and password.
Step 3: Aadhaar authentication
- The system will check for Aadhaar Authentication.
- If required, you will be directed to the Aadhaar Authentication Page to complete this step.
Step 4: Browse the catalogue
- After logging in, browse the catalogue to view items available for auction, including those listed under ‘Live Auctions.’
Step5: Add to cart
- Add your chosen items to the cart and specify your bid amount.
- Adding items to the cart is necessary to participate in the auction.
Step 6: Participate in the auction
Once items are in your cart, you can place bids and participate in the auction until it concludes.
Step 7: Payment
- After the auction ends, and if you are the highest bidder, proceed with payment through the portal.
- The winning item will be delivered to your address within the country.