E-auction of 300 presidential gifts begins

The e-auction of 300 gifts received by President Droupadi Murmu began on Wednesday.
The auction is part of the third edition of e-Upahaar — a unique initiative that transforms ceremonial gifts received by the President into resources for meaningful social welfare.
The third edition features 300 authenticated presidential gift items representing India’s rich artistic traditions, craftsmanship and diplomatic heritage, a senior Rashtrapati Bhavan official said.
The auction catalogue includes gifts received by President Murmu from heads of state and government, constitutional authorities, state governments, ministries, cultural institutions and distinguished personalities.
Every object has been professionally identified, documented, photographed and catalogued to ensure authenticity and transparency, the official said. In keeping with the President’s vision, 100 per cent of the auction proceeds will be utilised for two important social welfare initiatives – educational assistance, scholarships and skill development for school-going girls belonging to the Scheduled Tribes (STs) and other marginalised communities, and palliative care, paediatric cancer treatment and healthcare support for children suffering from life-threatening diseases through recognised charitable and medical institutions.
“Thus, every successful bid contributes directly to improving the lives of deserving beneficiaries across the country,” the official said. Launched in 2024, the e-Upahaar initiative offers citizens a rare opportunity to own authenticated presidential gift items through a transparent online auction while contributing directly to charitable causes. The auction is being conducted from August 5 to September 5, 2026 through a dedicated portal – https://upahaar.rashtrapatibhavan.gov.in (PTI)