- Nizam’s jewels under RBI custody, Centre tells Rajya Sabha
- No decision yet on permanent public display in Hyderabad
The Centre has informed the Rajya Sabha that no decision has been taken to shift Nizam’s jewels to Hyderabad for a permanent public exhibition. The government also stated that the historic collection remains under a high security custodial arrangement with the Reserve Bank of India. The response came in Parliament through a written reply by Union Culture Minister Gajendra Singh Shekhawat.
The issue was raised through questions in the Upper House regarding the status, custody, and future plans for Nizam’s jewels. In his reply, the minister confirmed that the jewellery is securely stored with the Reserve Bank of India. He said the Ministry of Culture recognises the historical, cultural and heritage significance of the collection. However, he clarified that no decision has been taken at present to relocate it to Hyderabad.
Nizam’s jewels stored with RBI since 1995
Responding to a question, Shekhawat confirmed that “173 remarkable pieces of the Nizam’s jewels have been securely stored in the vaults of the RBI since 1995.” He replied, “Yes, sir,” when asked whether the government was aware of this arrangement. He also explained that the storage follows an existing memorandum of understanding with the Reserve Bank of India.
According to the minister, the MoU covers security, insurance, and conservation needs. Therefore, the jewellery remains under what he described as a “high-value, high-security custodial arrangement” with the RBI. He stressed that these measures are essential to protect artefacts of such importance.
Centre recognises heritage value of Nizam’s jewels
The minister also addressed questions on the emotional and cultural value of Nizam’s jewels. He said the Ministry of Culture “recognises the historical, cultural and heritage significance of the Nizam’s Jewellery, including the public interest associated with these artefacts.” Members had highlighted the long-standing public sentiment that the jewels should be displayed in Hyderabad, the city of their origin.
Meanwhile, Shekhawat reiterated that there is no proposal at present to relocate the collection for a permanent public exhibition in Hyderabad. He stated clearly that “no decision” has been taken on this matter. The clarification comes amid repeated demands and discussions over the future display of the jewels.
The Nizams ruled the erstwhile Hyderabad State, which later merged with the Union of India after Independence. The jewels continue to remain a subject of public and parliamentary interest due to their heritage value and historic link to Hyderabad.
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