The renovated Old Lighthouse of Puducherry, a prominent symbol of the Union Territory's maritime and architectural heritage, was inaugurated yesterday by the Union Minister for Finance and Corporate Affairs, Smt. Nirmala Sitharaman, at a function held on the historic lighthouse premises. The Old Lighthouse, owned and maintained by the Office of the Commissioner of GST & Central Excise, Puducherry, has undergone extensive renovation and conservation works aimed at preserving its historical character while enhancing its structural integrity and visitor experience.
The event was attended by Shri. K. Kailashnathan, IAS (Rtd.) Hon'ble Lieutenant Governor of Puducherry and Shri N. Rangasamy, Hon'ble Chief Minister of Puducherry, Shri. S. Selvaganapathy, Member of Parliament (RS), Shri. Vignesh Kannan, Member of Legislative Assembly (Raj Bhavan Constituency), Shri. Abhai Kumar Srivastav, IRS, Member(Admin & Vigilance), CBIC, Shri. Sanjay Mangal, IRS, Member (GST & TPS), CBIC and Senior Officers of the Central and Puducherry Government, Officials of the GST & Central Excise Department and others.
Shri. Madan Mohan Singh, IRS, Principal Chief Commissioner, Tamilnadu & Puducherry zone welcomed the gathering. Shri. K. Kailashnathan, IAS (Rtd.) Hon'ble Lieutenant Governor of Puducherry and Shri N. Rangasamy, Hon'ble Chief Minister of Puducherry in their address quoted the importance of the old light house in the cultural and heritage value of Puducherry.
The Hon’ble Union Minister for Finance and Corporate affairs lauded the restoration of the historic Old Lighthouse in Puducherry, describing it as a model example of preserving heritage while embracing development. She praised the efforts of CBIC, CPWD and INTACH in faithfully conserving the nearly two-century-old structure and transforming it into a vibrant public space. The Minister highlighted Puducherry’s rich maritime and cultural legacy, stating that the renovated lighthouse would enhance tourism and public engagement with history. She also appreciated the initiative to provide exhibition space for young artists, linking heritage conservation with opportunities for future generations.
Milind R. Lanjewar, IRS., Commissioner, CGST Puducherry delivered vote of thanks.
The Old Lighthouse occupies a special place in the history of Puducherry. Constructed during the French colonial period in 1836, and it has served for nearly 143 years. The Old Lighthouse remains as the most revered landmark of Puducherry’s architectural heritage. The recent renovation project has restored several original features of the monument and ensured its preservation for future generations.
The inauguration of the renovated lighthouse marks an important milestone in the conservation of Puducherry's heritage assets and reaffirms the commitment of the Office of the Commissioner of GST & Central Excise, Puducherry, towards safeguarding and promoting the cultural and historical legacy of the Union Territory.