India Prepares for Historic Hosting of 46th World Heritage Committee Session

India is set to host the 46th session of the World Heritage Committee from July 21-31, marking the first time this prestigious event will be held on Indian soil. The session will highlight India's rich cultural heritage, with Prime Minister Narendra Modi expected to inaugurate the event.

India is gearing up to host the 46th session of the World Heritage Committee from July 21-31, marking a significant milestone in the nation's cultural history, Union Culture Minister Gajendra Singh Shekhawat announced on Friday.

In a press conference ahead of the session, Shekhawat confirmed that Prime Minister Narendra Modi has received 'in-principle approval' to inaugurate the event, with the official statement from the culture ministry later affirming Modi's presence on July 21. Notably, this is the first time India will be hosting this prestigious session, which will also see the attendance of UNESCO's Director General Audrey Azoulay and other key dignitaries.

Shekhawat emphasized that the event, organized with a 'whole-of-government approach' in a short span of 40 days, will bolster India's soft power on the global stage. The session will showcase India's diverse cultural heritage, the management of its heritage sites, and the priority the nation accords to its cultural legacy. Officials also revealed that a public art project themed on India's cultural heritage would be launched ahead of the session.

(With inputs from agencies.)