INDIA - Minto Hall, which has housed State Assembly for many years, has been cleared by the cabinet for transformation into a convention-cum-event centre.
Minto House began life as a guesthouse in 1909, and has also been the site of Hamidia College before being used for State Assembly up until the turn of the century. It has since been lying unused, with Central Government mooting a convention centre since 2005.
Additional chief secretary in the department of industries, Satya Prakash, says: "The bidders, who have qualified for Request For Purchase documents, will be short listed on basis of their bidding price."
The State Government will lease out Minto Hall and an adjacent 6.73 acres to a private partner for a period of 60 years. A further neighbouring 7.11 acres will see a 200-room hotel, retail area, offices and apartments constructed.
