Rajiv Gandhi Regional Museum of Natural History Rajasthan

The Rajiv Gandhi Regional Museum of Natural History is situated at Shilpgram in Ramsinghpura village, around 3.6 kilometres away from the Ranthambore National Park entry gate in Sawai Madhopur, Rajasthan. The museum was inaugurated on 1st March 2014, with the aim of creating awareness about the natural history of the region and promoting conservation of the local flora and fauna. The museum has various galleries and exhibits showcasing the biodiversity of the region, including a gallery on the flora and fauna of the Ranthambore National Park, a gallery on the geology and minerals of the region, and a gallery on the culture and traditions of the local tribes.

Programmes Conducted by Rajiv Gandhi Regional Museum of Natural History

Throughout the year, the museum conducts several environment-related educational activities. These programs are planned for people from different sections of society.

• The museum regularly observes major environmental and educational days such as World Environment Day, Earth Day, World Wetland Day, and World Water Day.
• Wildlife and conservation awareness are promoted through events like Wildlife Week, International Tiger Day, World Rhino Day, Conservation Day, and the World Day to Combat Desertification.
• Heritage, education, and inclusion are highlighted through World Heritage Day and World Heritage Week, International Museum Day, National Education Day, and the International Day for Persons with Disabilities.
• Environmental protection and disaster awareness programs are conducted on the International Day for the Preservation of the Ozone Layer and the International Day for Natural Disaster Reduction.
• Tree plantation and green awareness activities are promoted during Van Mahotsav.
• To support education, the museum conducts student-focused activities such as rallies, quiz competitions, debates, street plays, painting, poster-making, and model-making competitions.
• Special educational programs are organised during summer vacations, along with Youth Nature Camps and Winter Nature Camps, to build environmental awareness.
• Orientation workshops are conducted for teachers to strengthen environmental education methods.
• The museum organises collaborative programs, including national workshops and conferences, teacher orientation programs, and cultural and nature-based competitions such as music events.
• These programs are conducted in association with government departments, colleges, offices, and non-government organisations (NGOs).

More about the Museum’s Collections

• The museum has a vast biological collection.
• Specimens are displayed in themed galleries.
• Many rare items are stored in a protected reserve collection.
• The reserve collection includes taxidermy specimens.
• Mammals such as rhinoceros, lion, tiger, white tiger, leopard, and cheetah are preserved.
• Other species include blackbuck, wild ass, sloth bear, hyena, and mouse deer.
• Rare animals like the snow leopard, red panda, Nilgiri tahr, golden langur, and Indian pangolin are included.
• Reptiles and aquatic species are also displayed.
• These include the king cobra, crocodile, gharial, and Gangetic dolphin.
• The museum houses bird specimens and eggs.
• Skeletons, skulls, and head trophies are part of the collection.
• Fossils such as Nautilus, tree trunks, leaves, and dinosaur remains are preserved.
• Dinosaur eggs and a femur bone are key attractions.
• The collection supports education and scientific research.
• It is useful for researchers, students, and scholars.
• The museum also offers learning and awareness for the general public.

In addition, the museum also has displays on the history and culture of the local tribes and their traditional ways of life. The museum also has a library and a research centre where researchers and students can study the natural history and biodiversity of the region. It also conducts educational programs and workshops for school children and visitors to promote awareness and appreciation of the natural world and the importance of conservation.