New Delhi: The Delhi Development Authority (DDA) marked its 69th Foundation Day on 27th December 2025 at Baansera Park, Sarai Kale Khan, commemorating nearly seven decades of institutional contribution to the planning and development of the national capital. The event was attended by senior officials, employees, and their families, with Vinai Kumar Saxena, Hon’ble Lieutenant Governor of Delhi, gracing the occasion as the Chief Guest.
A major highlight of the celebration was the inauguration of Samsara, a temporary artisan market conceptualised as a platform for artisans, craftspeople, and skilled workers. The initiative reflects DDA’s focus on promoting livelihoods, traditional crafts, and community engagement within newly developed public spaces.
Addressing the gathering, the Lieutenant Governor reflected on the evolution of the DDA and its growing role in shaping Delhi’s urban landscape. He observed that the Authority’s journey mirrors Delhi’s own transformation, particularly in recent years, with DDA employees playing a pivotal role as enablers of change across sectors such as housing, infrastructure, environment, and heritage conservation.
The event highlighted several landmark interventions undertaken by the Authority, including the transformation of polluted stretches of the Yamuna floodplain into accessible and ecologically restored public spaces such as Asita, Baansera, Vasudev Ghat, and Yamuna Vatika. Restoration and conservation of heritage assets including Sanjay Van, Mehrauli Archaeological Park, Shalimar Bagh, and St. James Church were also cited, alongside large-scale housing projects providing shelter to residents from diverse socio-economic backgrounds. The expansion of community sports infrastructure across Delhi was noted as another key area of sustained focus.
DDA officials stated that these initiatives align with the national vision of a “Developed India” and a “Developed Delhi,” emphasising integrated planning, environmental sustainability, and inclusive urban growth. The decision to host the Foundation Day celebrations at Baansera Park—developed by DDA itself—was described as a moment of institutional pride, symbolising the Authority’s commitment to reclaiming degraded landscapes and transforming them into vibrant public spaces.
The formal programme included the unveiling of the DDA Calendar 2026 and award distribution ceremonies recognising the contributions of DDA officials and staff across departments for their role in the Authority’s projects and initiatives. The celebrations concluded with a cultural programme featuring a live performance by young singer Madhur Sharma, which drew an enthusiastic response from the audience and added a lively note to the evening.
Congratulating DDA employees on the occasion, the Lieutenant Governor extended his best wishes to the organisation and encouraged continued dedication towards building a resilient, greener, and more liveable Delhi.