New Delhi, July 31 (UNI) Around 24 new heritage sites, including 19 cultural, 4 natural, and 1 mixed property across the world have been added to the World Heritage list during the 46th session of World Heritage Committee, Culture and Tourism Minister Gajendera Singh Shekhawat said on Wednesday.
Addressing the media on the successful conclusion of the 46th World Heritage Committee meeting here, the Minister highlighted the inclusion of Moidams in the World Heritage list as a significant achievement adding, “Moidams from Assam became India’s 43rd World Heritage Site, it is the first cultural site from Assam to receive this recognition.
Located in the Charaideo district, Moidams are sacred burial mounds of the Ahom dynasty, reflecting six centuries of cultural and architectural development.”
Highlighting India’s commitment to heritage conservation, Shekhawat said, “India has long advocated for the values of the World Heritage Convention. Our commitment extends beyond borders which are reflected through various conservation and capacity-building initiatives we undertake with our neighbouring countries.”
“In the inaugural session, in line with his vision of “Vikas Bhi, Virasat Bhi” Prime Minister Narendra Modi announced a $1 million grant to the UNESCO World Heritage Centre. This contribution will support capacity building, technical assistance, and conservation efforts, particularly benefiting Global South countries,” the Minister said.
“For the first time, India proudly hosted the 46th session of the World Heritage Committee Meeting, from 21st to 31st July, 2024. This significant event marked a milestone in India’s longstanding association with the World Heritage Convention, which began in 1977,” he said.
“India’s active participation in the World Heritage Committee, serving four terms, underscores its dedication to international cooperation and capacity-building,” the Minister added.
Discussing about the bilateral meetings, Shekhawat mentioned that a Cultural Property Agreement between India and the USA was signed, reinforcing the commitment to combatting illegal trade in cultural property. Additionally, the Archaeological Survey of India (ASI) entered into an agreement with ICCROM for capacity building and research on tangible heritage.
The 46th WHC session also featured the Young Heritage Professionals Forum and the Site Managers Forum, enhancing global expertise in heritage preservation. Other 33 side events were organized during this meeting, he added.
He made a special mention of the notable exhibition during the 46th WHC meeting that showcased 25 repatriated historical objects, highlighting India’s dedication to preserving its cultural heritage.
Underscoring India’s contributions to global heritage conservation, the Minister acknowledged India’s heritage conservation efforts in Angkor Wat, Cambodia, Cham Temples in Vietnam, and stupas in Bagan, Myanmar.
“With a remarkable list of 43 World Heritage Sites, including the newly inscribed Moidams, India continues to be a global leader in heritage preservation. The extensive Tentative List of 56 properties ensures a comprehensive representation of India’s cultural spectrum,” he added.
