Each year since 1977, International Council of Museums (ICOM) has organised International Museum Day on May 18. International Museum Day was officially established with the adoption of a resolution during the ICOM General Assembly in Moscow, Russia to create an annual event “with the aim of further unifying the creative aspirations and efforts of museums and drawing the attention of the world public to their activity". Definition of Museum A museum is a not-for-profit, permanent institution in the service of society that researches, collects, conserves, interprets and exhibits tangible and intangible heritage. Open to the public, accessible and inclusive, museums foster diversity and sustainability. They operate and communicate ethically, professionally and with the participation of communities, offering varied experiences for education, enjoyment, reflection and knowledge sharing. Objective The objective of International Museum Day (IMD) is to raise awareness about the fact that, “Museums are an important means of cultural exchange, enrichment of cultures and development of mutual understanding, cooperation and peace among peoples.” International Museum Day 2025 - The Future of Museums in Rapidly Changing Communities In an era marked by constant transformation, museums find themselves at the forefront of change, navigating a dynamic landscape shaped by shifting global events and evolving societal needs. This year’s International Museum Day theme, The Future of Museums in Rapidly Changing Communities, invites us to reimagine the role of museums as essential connectors, innovators, and stewards of cultural identity. Museums serve as dynamic educational hubs, fostering curiosity, creativity, and critical thinking. We acknowledge their contribution to research, providing a platform for exploration and the dissemination of new ideas. From art and history to science and technology, museums are vital spaces where education and research converge to shape our understanding of the world. Source : International Council of Museums Celebrations in India The Ministry of Culture steers the celebration across its museums in the country. The National Museum (New Delhi), National Gallery of Modern Art (New Delhi, Mumbai, Bengaluru), Allahabad Museum (Prayagraj), Indian Museum (Kolkata), Victoria Memorial Hall (Kolkata), Salar Jung Museum (Hyderabad) and Science cities and centers under National Council of Science Museums (in 24 locations across India) undertake special initiatives to commemmorate the day. Source : Ministry of Culture