New Delhi, Mar 2 (UNI) A high-level committee constituted for modernisation of museums by the Ministry of Culture met informally for the first time here today to discuss modernisation of some of the museums in the country to bring them on par with the best in the world.

The meeting was convened by the Minister for Tourism and Culture Ambika Soni. Secretary Culture is the Chairman of the 14-member committee.

The terms of the reference of the committee are : --To formulate the requirements/eligibility criteria, Terms of Reference, draft advertisement etc. for invitation of expression of interest from internationally reputed consultants.

--Select consultants based on the above criteria.

--Interact with selected consultants and give them broad guidance to enable them prepare detailed project reports for modernisation/up-gradation of the identified museums to international standards.

All the members expressed concern at the present status of museums in the country and suggested the need for structural changes to make them autonomous, responsive and interesting place for public to visit.

The next meeting of the committee will be held after two weeks.

UNI