Science City, Kolkata, an ISO 9001:2015 certified organisation, a unit of National Council of Science Museums, under the Ministry of Culture, Govt. of India, proudly presents ‘On the Edge?’, a groundbreaking permanent gallery on climate change. Inspired by India’s timeless philosophy of Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam, “the world is one family”, and aligned with the G20’s vision of human-centric progress, this initiative democratizes climate action. By providing accessible, evidence-based climate literacy, the gallery empowers individuals and communities to respond collectively to the urgent challenge of climate change, supporting the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals. This innovative platform bridges the gap between scientific knowledge and community action, fostering a collaborative approach to addressing one of humanity’s most pressing issues.

Situated near the Sundarbans, one of the world’s most climate-vulnerable regions, Science City provides a profoundly relevant setting for this vital discourse. As one of India’s foremost centres for public science engagement, the gallery merges scientific rigour with compelling human narratives to counter misinformation and reduce climate-related anxiety. Designed with a focus on young visitors, the gallery nurtures climate-conscious thinking from an early age. Its mission is to translate awareness into sustained responsibility and coordinated action, beginning at the local level and radiating outward to global impact.

Guided by Benjamin Franklin’s timeless principle — “Tell me and I forget; teach me and I remember; involve me and I learn” — the gallery is built around immersive learning experiences that deeply involve visitors in the stories of our changing planet. The content was conceived and executed through a collaborative, multidisciplinary process involving scientists, research institutions, climate communicators, educators, curators, and frontline community representatives. Science City is a self-sustained organisation, all the expenditure incurred for this gallery was met through gate collection. The conceptualisation work for the gallery work was initiated during the COVID-19 pandemic period. It was a very challenging time for the team to think on this burning issue while protecting themselves from the COVID-19 pandemic. Dedication and collaborative efforts slowly and slowly brought results. After COVID-19 was over, the team speedily fabricated prototypes for interactive models. These prototypes were thoroughly tested in the workshop, and exhibits got final shape.

Key features:

• Interactive exhibits, AR/VR, and 3D holographic illusions
• Over 35 hands-on exhibits exploring climate science and local impacts
• Free entry and digital walkthrough for global reach
• Inclusive design for physical, cognitive, and sensory accessibility

Impact:

• Over 1 million visitors, including 60,000 students, since January 2025
• A hub for community dialogue and climate citizenship
• Replicating the model in Ranchi Science Centre and other states of India.

‘On the Edge?’ demonstrates museums can become powerful catalysts for change — transforming public awareness into collective action and resilience. More than just an exhibition, it is a call to action: a space where visitors are not only informed but inspired to protect our shared planet.

This gallery redefines the role of museums in the 21st century — from repositories of knowledge to active agents of planetary stewardship.