What is Toshakhana, and How are Government Gifts Managed?

The MEA puts around 300 official gifts up for public e-auction under the revised Toshakhana Rules, 2024.

The Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) opened about 300 Toshakhana gifts for public e-auction under the revised Toshakhana Rules, 2024. The auction ran from 8 June 2026 to 30 June 2026.

What is Toshakhana?

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 MEA.

Auction Items & Price Range

The catalogue featured Rolex Yacht-Master II watches, silver daggers from Oman, gold jewellery, Apple MacBook Pros, and antique silver boxes. Listed prices ranged from ₹2,385 to about ₹19 lakh.

Process & Revenue Rules

The e-auction was conducted through the MEA's Toshakhana Auction Portal. Proceeds are credited to the Consolidated Fund of India, the principal government account under Article 266 of the Constitution. The current round mainly covered gifts received by senior officials including the Foreign Secretary; a later round is planned for gifts received by former External Affairs Ministers.

Important Facts for Exams

  • The Consolidated Fund of India is established under Article 266 of the Constitution.
  • Toshakhana refers to the official record and disposal of gifts received by public functionaries.
  • The Toshakhana Section works under the MEA's Establishment Division.
  • The auction operated under the revised Toshakhana Rules, 2024.

📝 Practice MCQs

1. Which ministry conducted the public e-auction of about 300 Toshakhana gifts?

[A] Ministry of Home Affairs

[B] Ministry of External Affairs

[C] Ministry of Finance

[D] Ministry of Culture

Answer: [B] Ministry of External Affairs

2. The proceeds from the Toshakhana auction are credited to which account?

[A] Public Account of India

[B] Contingency Fund of India

[C] Consolidated Fund of India

[D] National Investment Fund

Answer: [C] Consolidated Fund of India

3. The Consolidated Fund of India is established under which Article of the Constitution?

[A] Article 112

[B] Article 266

[C] Article 280

[D] Article 300

Answer: [B] Article 266

4. Under which set of rules was the Toshakhana e-auction conducted?

[A] Toshakhana Rules, 2024

[B] General Financial Rules, 2017

[C] Conduct Rules, 1964

[D] Foreign Contribution Rules, 2011

Answer: [A] Toshakhana Rules, 2024

5. The Toshakhana Section in India functions under which division of the MEA?

[A] Protocol Division

[B] Establishment Division

[C] Consular Division

[D] Economic Division

Answer: [B] Establishment Division