Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi inaugurated the 46th Session of the World Heritage Committee at Bharat Mandapam, New Delhi, on July 21, 2024. This marks the first time India is hosting this prestigious global event, which plays a crucial role in managing World Heritage sites and deciding new inscriptions on the World Heritage List.

The World Heritage Committee, responsible for overseeing matters related to World Heritage, convenes annually to discuss the conservation of existing sites and the nomination of new ones. This year’s meeting, which runs from July 21 to 31, 2024, at Bharat Mandapam, will see participation from over 2,000 delegates representing more than 150 countries. Key topics on the agenda include the State of Conservation reports for 124 World Heritage properties, proposals for new nominations, and discussions on International Assistance and the utilization of World Heritage Funds.

During his opening address, Prime Minister Modi emphasized the significance of the event coinciding with Guru Purnima, expressing his pleasure at hosting the committee meeting on this auspicious day. He extended a warm welcome to all international dignitaries, including Ms. Audrey Azoulay, Director-General of UNESCO, and expressed optimism about achieving historic milestones similar to other global events hosted by India.

Prime Minister Modi highlighted recent achievements in heritage conservation, noting that more than 350 artifacts have been returned to India from abroad. He described this return as a gesture of global respect for history and emphasized the growing research and tourism opportunities that advancements in technology can provide.

The Prime Minister lauded the inclusion of Maidam from North East India in the World Heritage List, marking it as India’s 43rd World Heritage Site and the region’s first. Modi expressed confidence that this recognition would enhance Maidam’s prominence and draw attention to its unique cultural significance.

He also detailed India’s rich heritage, citing landmarks such as the 2000-year-old Iron Pillar in New Delhi, the 8th-century Kedarnath Temple, the Brihadeeswara Temple in Tamil Nadu, and ancient urban planning sites like Dholavira and Lothal in Gujarat. Modi noted that these sites not only reflect historical grandeur but also showcase significant advancements in ancient engineering and architecture.

The Prime Minister underscored the necessity of revisiting India’s past with new perspectives, facilitated by technological progress and recent archaeological discoveries such as the 4000-year-old horse-driven chariot from Sinauli, Uttar Pradesh. He urged attendees to embrace innovative approaches to understand historical contexts, free from preconceptions.

Modi reiterated India’s commitment to global heritage preservation, announcing a $1 million contribution to the UNESCO World Heritage Centre. This funding will support capacity building, technical assistance, and conservation efforts in the Global South. Additionally, a new certificate program in World Heritage Management for young professionals will be launched in India.

Alongside the main committee meeting, the World Heritage Young Professionals’ Forum and the World Heritage Site Managers’ Forum are being held. Various exhibitions at Bharat Mandapam include the Return of Treasures Exhibition, showcasing retrieved artifacts, and immersive AR & VR experiences highlighting Indian World Heritage sites such as Rani ki Vav, Kailasa Temple, and Hoysala Temple. The Incredible India exhibition will present India’s diverse cultural heritage, modern developments, and tourism opportunities.

The hosting of the World Heritage Committee meeting in India reflects the country’s increasing role in global heritage conservation. Prime Minister Modi’s address underscores India’s commitment to preserving and promoting its rich cultural legacy while fostering international cooperation. The substantial investment in heritage conservation and the introduction of new educational programs are commendable steps towards advancing global awareness and appreciation of historical and cultural assets.

  Bharat Mandapam, Cultural Heritage, Dholavira, Global Cooperation, Heritage Conservation, India, Lothal, Maidam, Narendra Modi, UNESCO, World Heritage Committee