PM Modi Inaugurates World Heritage Committee’s 46th Session in New Delhi

Prime Minister Narendra Modi inaugurated the 46th session of the World Heritage Committee at Bharat Mandapam in New Delhi, emphasizing India’s commitment to global heritage preservation.

India’s Contribution to Global Heritage

PM Modi announced a $1 million contribution to the UNESCO World Heritage Centre for heritage conservation, particularly in the Global South. He highlighted India’s efforts in conserving heritage sites in countries like Cambodia, Vietnam, and Myanmar.

Development and Heritage: A Balanced Vision

PM Modi reiterated India’s vision of balancing development with heritage conservation, citing projects like the Vishwanath Corridor, Ram Temple, and the modern campus of Nalanda University. He noted that India’s heritage reflects both history and advanced science, exemplified by structures like the 8th-century Kedarnath Temple and the 2000-year-old rust-resistant Iron Pillar in Delhi.

Heritage as a Global Responsibility

The Prime Minister urged global cooperation in heritage conservation and highlighted India’s initiatives, such as the global embrace of Yoga and Ayurveda. He announced the introduction of a certificate program in World Heritage Management in India for young professionals.

Northeast India’s First World Heritage Site

PM Modi revealed that the historic “Maidam” in Northeast India is proposed for inclusion in the UNESCO World Heritage list, which would mark the region’s first cultural world heritage site and India’s 43rd.

Showcasing India’s Rich Heritage

The World Heritage Committee Meeting includes various exhibitions at Bharat Mandapam, showcasing India’s cultural heritage and retrieved artifacts. Advanced AR & VR technologies provide immersive experiences of heritage sites like Rani ki Vav, Kailasa Temple, and Hoysala Temple.

Global Cooperation and Cultural Pride

PM Modi emphasized the significance of heritage in fostering global unity and advancing human welfare. He highlighted the return of over 350 heritage artifacts to India as a testament to global generosity and respect for history. The meeting, attended by over 2000 delegates from more than 150 countries, aims to discuss new site nominations, conservation reports, and the utilization of World Heritage Funds.