Commemoration of International Museum Day 2026 and Inauguration of new facility Orchid and Cactus Garden at National Science Centre, Guwahati
National Science Centre, Guwahati, a unit of National Council of Science Museums under Ministry of Culture, Government of India, will celebrate International Museum Day 2026 with a series of activities and the inauguration of “Orchid and Cactus Garden” on 18th May 2026.
The theme of this year’s International Museum Day is “Museums Uniting a Divided World”, aims to promote awareness about the role of museums in fostering cultural exchange, education, creativity, and community engagement.
The Orchid and Cactus Garden will be inaugurated by Dr. Ashiho A. Mao, Former Director, Botanical Survey of India and Vice Chancellor, Martin Luther Christian University, at 11:00 AM on 18th May 2026 at National Science Centre, Guwahati. The programme will also be graced by Shri Khyanjeet Gogoi, President, The Orchid Society of Eastern Himalaya and Regional Orchids Germplasm Conservation & Propagation Centre.
This initiative is designed to enrich public engagement and foster scientific awareness, particularly among the youth and students of Assam and the wider North-Eastern region. This initiative will be of special interest to visitors, as it features a vibrant display of indigenous orchid species that represent the rich botanical heritage of North East India, complemented by select exotic varieties, alongside an exhibition of remarkable drought-resistant plants that showcase fascinating survival adaptations.
As part of the celebration, a Mural Painting Session has been conducted from 14th to 16th May 2026 by the students of Government Arts College, Guwahati.
The programme schedule also includes:
- A workshop on the importance of orchids and cactus for students and science communicators on 17th May 2026.
- An “Exhibit Hunt” competition for students of Classes VI to X on 18th May 2026.
- A special inaugural cultural programme exploring the eternal relation between Bihu and Orchid following the garden inauguration ceremony.
Entry to Science Centre will be free for all the visitors on 18th May 2026, and it will remain remain open to visitors till 7:30 PM
National Science Centre, Guwahati, invites students, educators, families, and citizens to participate in the celebrations and experience the unique blend of science, culture, art, and nature.