Smriti Irani, Shekhar Kapur Join PM Museum Council

The Prime Ministers’ Museum & Library (PMML) has undergone a significant reconstitution of its society and executive council, introducing several prominent figures to its leadership. Former Principal Secretary to the Prime Minister, Nripendra Mishra, has been reappointed as the chairperson for another five-year term.

Expansion of the Executive Council

The executive council, previously comprising 29 members, has been expanded to include 34 members. This expansion aims to bring diverse expertise and perspectives to the institution.

Notable New Members

• Smriti Irani: Former Union Minister, bringing political and administrative experience.
• Shekhar Kapur: Renowned filmmaker, adding cultural and artistic insights.
• Rajiv Kumar: Former NITI Aayog Vice-Chairman, contributing economic and policy expertise.
• Syed Ata Hasnain: Retired Army General, offering strategic and defense perspectives.
• Vasudev Kamath: Associated with Sanskar Bharati, enhancing cultural representation.

Continuity and Change

While Nripendra Mishra continues as chairperson, some previous members have not been reappointed, including former Union Minister Anurag Thakur and journalist Rajat Sharma. This reshuffle reflects a strategic move to infuse fresh perspectives into the institution’s governance.

Historical Context

The PMML, formerly known as the Nehru Memorial Museum & Library (NMML), was renamed in 2023 to encompass the legacies of all Indian Prime Ministers. This reconstitution aligns with the government’s vision to make the institution a comprehensive repository of India’s political leadership history.

Summary of the news

Key Points	Details
Why in news	The Prime Ministers’ Museum & Library (PMML) reconstituted its governing body, appointing Nripendra Mishra as chairperson for another term and inducting new members like Smriti Irani and Shekhar Kapur.
Chairperson	Nripendra Mishra (Reappointed for a five-year term)
New Members	Smriti Irani (Former Union Minister), Shekhar Kapur (Filmmaker), Rajiv Kumar (Economist), Syed Ata Hasnain (Retired General), Vasudev Kamath (Sanskar Bharati)
Expansion of Council	Increased from 29 to 34 members
Institution Renamed	Renamed from Nehru Memorial Museum & Library (NMML) to PMML in 2023
Purpose of PMML	To preserve and promote the legacy of all Indian Prime Ministers
Static Information	– Founded: Originally established as NMML in 1966
	– Renamed: As PMML in 2023