Happenings

On 7th March 2026, the students of Semester II, BA LL.B. (Batch 2025–30) participated in an insightful Heritage Walk aimed at exploring the rich cultural, historical, and industrial heritage of Nagpur. The activity was organized to provide students with an opportunity to engage with the historical evolution of transportation and to understand the significance of heritage conservation in India. The walk also served as an educational experience linking aspects of history, culture, architecture, and law.

The walk commenced at 09:30 AM, with 121 students assembling at the Narrow-Gauge Rail Museum, Motibagh, Nagpur. The heritage walk focused on the Narrow-Gauge Rail Museum, one of the most unique railway heritage sites in the country. The museum represents an important phase in India’s transportation history and preserves the legacy of the narrow-gauge railway system that played a significant role in connecting remote regions of the country.

The Narrow-Gauge Rail Museum, located near Kadbi Chowk on Kamptee Road, Nagpur, is the only museum of its kind in India. It was inaugurated on 14th December 2002 on the 150th anniversary of Indian Railways. Spread across more than four acres of beautifully landscaped gardens, the museum stands on the site of the former South Eastern Railway broad-gauge steam locomotive shed. It houses a vast collection of historical artifacts, railway equipment, engines, and technical instruments that document the development of the Satpura narrow-gauge railway system and other narrow-gauge networks in India.

During the visit, students explored various exhibits that showcased the technological and industrial evolution of Indian railways. The museum served as an excellent educational resource, providing tangible and real-life examples of historical developments in transportation and engineering. By observing the preserved locomotives, tools, and archival displays, students were able to connect their theoretical understanding of history with practical, visual learning. The museum tour was particularly beneficial for students pursuing legal studies, as it highlighted the intersection between heritage conservation, public policy, infrastructure development, and law. Understanding how historical assets are preserved and managed also provided insight into the legal frameworks surrounding cultural heritage protection in India.

Students were given detailed explanations of the exhibits and were able to interact with museum staff and curators, who shared valuable insights into the historical significance and technical features of the artefacts. These interactions enhanced the learning experience and encouraged students to ask questions about the development of rail transport and its role in shaping regional and national growth.

The heritage walk concluded at 12:40 PM, marking the end of an enriching and informative experience for the students. The visit enabled them to engage directly with Nagpur’s historical and industrial heritage in an interactive and meaningful manner. It not only strengthened their understanding of India’s transportation history but also fostered a deeper appreciation for the importance of preserving cultural and technological heritage.

I would like to express my sincere gratitude to Dr. Sukhvinder Singh Dari, Director, for his constant support and encouragement in organizing this heritage walk. His commitment to promoting experiential and practical learning played a vital role in making this educational activity a success.

A group photograph of students and faculty at the Narrow-Gauge Rail Museum, capturing a moment of learning and exploration

Students are being guided by Dr. Prashant Dhage during the Heritage Walk at the Narrow-Gauge Rail Museum.

Glimpses of the Heritage Walk at the Narrow-Gauge Rail Museum, capturing the historical essence of the site.

Glimpses of the Heritage Walk at the Narrow-Gauge Rail Museum, capturing the historical essence of the site