What is Toshakhana, and how are goverment gifts managed?

The Ministry of External Affairs has opened about 300 Toshakhana gifts for public e-auction under the revised Toshakhana Rules, 2024. The auction began on 8 June 2026 and is scheduled to end on 30 June 2026.

Toshakhana and Official Gifts

Toshakhana is a system for the receipt, valuation, and disposal of gifts received by public officials during official visits and diplomatic engagements. In India, the Toshakhana Section functions under the Establishment Division of the Ministry of External Affairs.

Auction Items and Price Range

The auction catalogue includes Rolex Yacht Master II watches, silver daggers from Oman, gold jewellery, Apple MacBook Pros, and antique silver boxes. The listed prices range from Rs 2,385 to Rs 17 lakh, and some items are priced up to Rs 19 lakh.

Process and Revenue Rules

The e-auction is being conducted through the Ministry of External Affairs’ Toshakhana Auction Portal at toshakhanaauction.mea.gov.in. The proceeds from the auction are credited to the Consolidated Fund of India, which is the principal government account under Article 266 of the Constitution of India.

Officials and Future Auction Rounds

The current auction mainly includes gifts received by senior ministry officials, including the Foreign Secretary and officers below that rank, during international travel. The Ministry of External Affairs has also planned a later auction round for presents received by former External Affairs Ministers.

Important Facts for Exams

• The Consolidated Fund of India is the main account of the Union Government under Article 266 of the Constitution of India.
• Public e-auctions use an online bidding system for the sale of listed items.
• The Ministry of External Affairs handles India’s external relations and diplomatic protocol.
• Toshakhana is a term used for the official record and disposal of gifts received by public functionaries.