National Science Centre, Guwahati Celebrated International Museum Day 2026 with Inauguration of Orchid and Cactus Garden
Rongili Barta: National Science Centre, Guwahati, a unit of National Council of Science Museums under Ministry of Culture, Government of India, celebrated International Museum Day 2026 with a series of activities and the inauguration of the new facility, “Orchid and Cactus Garden,” on 18th May 2026.
The theme of this year’s International Museum Day was “Museums Uniting a Divided World,” which aimed to promote awareness about the role of museums in fostering cultural exchange, education, creativity, and community engagement.
The Orchid and Cactus Garden was inaugurated by Dr. Ashiho A. Mao, Former Director of the Botanical Survey of India and Vice Chancellor of Martin Luther Christian University, Meghalaya. During his address, he highlighted the importance of museums in society and spoke about their historical origins, mentioning that museums began in Iraq around 530 BC. He also noted that the Indian Museum was the first museum in India. Emphasizing the significance of museums, he stated that they are important because they bring together different kinds of objects and knowledge in one place. He also appreciated that this Orchid and Cactus Garden is a living museum.
The programme was also graced by Shri Khyanjeet Gogoi, President of The Orchid Society of Eastern Himalaya and Regional Orchids Germplasm Conservation & Propagation Centre. Shri Sujay Majumder, Director, National Science Centre, Guwahati also felicitated the dignitaries and addressed the gathering, speaking on how museums can bridge tradition and innovation, and how orchids remind us of beauty while cactus symbolize strength and resilience. A special inaugural cultural programme exploring the eternal relation between Bihu and orchids was performed by Upashana Nrityangan following the garden inauguration ceremony
On the occasion of International Museum Day, National Science Centre, Guwahati reflected the spirit of the theme by showcasing how museums can connect tradition with innovation, and nature with science, through initiatives like the Orchid and Cactus Garden alongside its scientific exhibits.
The initiative was designed to enrich public engagement and foster scientific awareness, particularly among the youth and students of Assam and the wider North-Eastern region. The initiative attracted special interest from visitors as it featured a vibrant display of indigenous orchid species representing the rich botanical heritage of North East India, complemented by exotic varieties, alongside an exhibition of remarkable drought-resistant plants showcasing fascinating survival adaptations.
An “Exhibit Hunt” competition for students of Classes VI to X was also organised. An Open House Quiz programme was conducted, followed by a Sky Observation Session in the evening..
On this occasion entry to the Science Centre was kept free for all visitors, and the Centre remained open to visitors till 7:30 PM.