46th World Heritage Committee Meeting Showcases Commitment to Global Heritage Conservation

Union Minister of Culture and Tourism, Shri Gajendra Singh Shekhawat, underscored India’s dedication to preserving cultural heritage both domestically and internationally.

India has made history by hosting the 46th session of the World Heritage Committee (WHC) from July 21 to 31, 2024, at Bharat Mandapam in New Delhi. This significant event, marking India's first time as host, highlights the country’s long-standing commitment to heritage conservation and its active role in the World Heritage Convention since its inception in 1977.

Union Minister of Culture and Tourism, Shri Gajendra Singh Shekhawat, underscored India’s dedication to preserving cultural heritage both domestically and internationally. “Our commitment extends beyond borders,” he said, reflecting on various conservation and capacity-building initiatives undertaken with neighboring countries.

The session was inaugurated by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, who, aligned with his vision of "Vikas Bhi, Virasat Bhi," announced a $1 million grant to the UNESCO World Heritage Centre. This grant will support capacity-building, technical assistance, and conservation efforts, particularly benefitting countries in the Global South.

During the briefing, Minister Shekhawat highlighted India’s achievements in heritage conservation over the past decade. The country has successfully inscribed 13 new World Heritage Sites, positioning it sixth globally in terms of the number of World Heritage Sites. Noteworthy projects include the Kashi Vishwanath Corridor, the Ram Temple in Ayodhya, and the modern campus of Nalanda University.

A major highlight of the 46th WHC session was the inscription of 24 new World Heritage Sites, including 19 cultural, 4 natural, and 1 mixed property. Among these, the Moidams of Assam were added as India’s 43rd World Heritage Site. Located in the Charaideo district, Moidams are sacred burial mounds of the Ahom dynasty and reflect six centuries of cultural and architectural heritage.

The session also saw the signing of a Cultural Property Agreement between India and the USA, reinforcing efforts to combat illegal trade in cultural property. Additionally, the Archaeological Survey of India (ASI) signed an agreement with ICCROM to enhance capacity building and research on tangible heritage. The meeting featured the Young Heritage Professionals Forum and the Site Managers Forum, aimed at boosting global expertise in heritage preservation, along with 33 side events.

Minister Shekhawat also highlighted an exhibition showcasing 25 repatriated historical objects, emphasizing India’s commitment to preserving its cultural heritage. India’s efforts extend beyond its borders, with significant contributions to conservation projects at Angkor Wat in Cambodia, Cham Temples in Vietnam, and stupas in Bagan, Myanmar.

Under India’s G20 presidency, the New Delhi Leaders’ Declaration 2023 (NDLD) marked a landmark shift by endorsing culture as a standalone goal in the post-2030 development framework. This move is expected to unlock culture's transformative potential, drive economic growth, empower marginalized communities, and safeguard vulnerable heritage.

The 46th WHC session concluded with extensive discussions on conservation, international assistance, and bilateral meetings, showcasing India’s rich heritage and setting the stage for future global heritage conservation efforts.