The National Council of Science Museums (NCSM) has been honored with the prestigious CIMUSET Award for its climate change gallery “On The Edge?” at Science City, Kolkata. The award was announced during the 27th ICOM General Conference in Dubai, marking a significant achievement for India’s science museum community. Science City, Kolkata, a unit of the National Council of Science Museums under the Ministry of Culture, Government of India, created this 10,000-square-foot permanent gallery to address the urgent realities of climate change.
The gallery embodies the philosophy of Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam and aligns with global sustainability goals. Jacob Thorek Jensen, Chair of the CIMUSET Award Committee, praised the initiative, stating that “On the Edge?” stands out as a powerful demonstration of what science museums can achieve when they take their responsibility toward society seriously. He noted that the project addresses climate change urgency through an impressive combination of scientific rigor, community engagement, and genuine inclusivity, showing how science museums can act as agents of change.
Mr. A. D. Choudhury, Director General of NCSM, expressed pride in the achievement, emphasizing that winning the CIMUSET Award reinforces their commitment to creating museums that inspire awareness and collective action for a sustainable future. Through interactive exhibits and evidence-based storytelling, the gallery helps visitors understand the human-induced causes and severe impacts of climate change and the urgent need for mitigation and adaptation.
Mr. Anurag Kumar, Deputy Director General of NCSM and former Director of Science City, Kolkata, described the award as a reaffirmation of their commitment to creating meaningful, research-driven, and engaging experiences that bring climate action to the forefront. He commended the dedication and creativity of the curators, designers, and technical teams who worked tirelessly to bring the gallery to life.
The gallery was inaugurated on January 11, 2025, by Shri Gajendra Singh Shekhawat, Union Minister of Culture and Tourism, Government of India. Since its opening, more than one million visitors have experienced the facility. Mr. Pramod Grover, Director of Science City, Kolkata, highlighted that the gallery integrates immersive exhibits, augmented reality and virtual reality experiences, and an interactive LED wall to clearly convey climate impacts, underlying causes, and actionable solutions, particularly encouraging young people to participate in collective climate action.
Subha Sankar Ghosh, Curator at Science City, noted that the gallery was developed to meet visitor expectations of the institution as a place of trust. Following its inauguration, regular outreach activities with different student groups have been conducted, playing an instrumental role in promoting climate literacy.
The CIMUSET Award honors outstanding science and technology museums and centers that drive positive social change and advance a more equal, inclusive, and sustainable world. Rooted in the UN 2030 Sustainable Development Agenda, it recognizes innovative projects that embody contemporary museum values and hybrid practices. Supported by ICOM, the award celebrates institutions that foster community engagement, shared heritage, and lifelong learning beyond traditional boundaries.
CIMUSET is the International Committee for Museums and Collections of Science and Technology, operating under the International Council of Museums (ICOM). It brings together professionals from science and technology museums worldwide to exchange knowledge, strengthen best practices, and champion the vital role these institutions play in society.
