National Council of Science Museums

About

The National Council of Science Museums (NCSM), established on April 4, 1978, is an autonomous organization under the Ministry of Culture, Government of India. Headquartered in Kolkata, NCSM administers 26 science centers and museums across the country, making it the largest network of science centers and museums in the world under a single administrative umbrella.

The inception of NCSM was influenced by a task force constituted by the Union Planning Commission in the early 1970s. This task force recommended the establishment of science museums at national, state, and district levels and the formation of a central coordinating agency. Consequently, NCSM was formed to coordinate informal science communication activities in the museum space across India.

National-Level Science Centres

SDAArchitect has designed multiple National, Regional and Sub-Regional science centres for NCSM. These include design proposals, awarded projects, as well as completed projects and projects under construction, helping NCSM extend its reach to various parts of the country.

Science Communication Initiatives

Beyond managing these centres, NCSM engages in various science communication initiatives. The Mobile Science Exhibition (MSE) program brings science exhibitions to rural areas using buses equipped with thematic exhibits. This initiative aims to communicate science to underserved populations.

NCSM also fosters innovation through its Innovation Hubs, which provide facilities to nurture new ideas and help develop an inquisitive perspective among youth. These hubs serve as springboards for new ideas and innovation, helping society and the economy face future challenges.

International Collaborations

In addition to domestic activities, NCSM has extended its reach internationally by developing science centers and galleries in collaboration with other countries.

Through its extensive network and diverse initiatives, NCSM plays a pivotal role in promoting scientific knowledge and fostering a culture of innovation across India and beyond.