- Stresses on enhancing public participation and cultural promotion
Bhopal: The newly appointed Secretary of the Ministry of Culture, Government of India, Vivek Agarwal, visited the Indira Gandhi Rashtriya Manav Sangrahalaya (IGRMS), Bhopal, today. During his visit, he observed both indoor and open-air exhibitions that reflect India’s rich and diverse cultural heritage.
On this occasion, Agarwal also participated in a tree plantation drive within the museum premises, promoting environmental consciousness. He was warmly welcomed by IGRMS Director Amitabh Pandey, who briefed him on the museum’s key activities including research, folk culture promotion, and public outreach initiatives.
Had earlier visited the museum as an IAS trainee
Agarwal shared that he had earlier visited the museum as an IAS trainee, but now viewed it through a new lens. He praised the museum as a vibrant hub of living culture, not just a reflection of the past.
He emphasized expanding public participation through a stronger membership drive and recommended interactive activities in each gallery to engage visitors. He also proposed initiating craft-based sales and marketing opportunities within the museum to support artisans and folk artists. Further, he advocated for regular workshops and cultural performances to promote traditional arts.
Agarwal explored exhibits like ‘Kumhar Para’, ‘Himalayan Village’, ‘Coastal Village’, the Museum Reference Library, and ‘Rock Art Shelters’, expressing high appreciation. The visit was also graced by ASI Regional Director Arun Raj and Superintendent Archaeologist Dr. Manoj Kumar Kurmi.
