1: Historic Chairmanship at The International Heritage Preservation Platform

  • The announcement of India chairing the UNESCO World Heritage Committee at the 46th session in 2024 in New Delhi was made public on January 9.
  • India will host the session from July 21 to 31, 2024.
  • This occasion stands as a landmark event in the history of Indian heritage conservation and international recognition.

2: A Shining Example of India's Global Cooperation and Collaboration

  • The decision to hold the 46th session in India was confirmed during the 19th extraordinary session in 2023.
  • This decision resulted from a proposal by Indian authorities in consultation with the UNESCO Director-General.
  • It showcases India's cooperation and collaboration with UNESCO in fields such as education, arts, science, and culture.

3: The Pivotal Role of UNESCO and the World Heritage Committee

  • UNESCO, a UN agency, is instrumental in recognizing and safeguarding the cultural and natural heritage globally.
  • The World Heritage Committee, consisting of representatives from 21 member states, holds an annual meeting.
  • They deliberate on vital issues concerning the identification, preservation, conservation, and propagation of cultural and natural heritage sites.

4: India's Global Standing Reinforced

  • By hosting the committee, India exemplifies its commitment to UNESCO's principles.
  • The event is a platform for India to present its diverse cultural and natural heritage in international discussions with global experts, policymakers, and representatives.
  • The opportunity reinforces India’s international community standing and dedication to UNESCO's ideals.

5: An Opportunity to Showcase India's Historic and Cultural Wealth

  • The 46th session in New Delhi underlines the shared global responsibility to safeguard and celebrate world heritage.
  • The event gives the world an opportunity to appreciate India's history, traditions, and heritage conservation initiatives.

6: About UNESCO

  • UNESCO, or the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization, is a specialised agency of the United Nations (UN).
  • Its mission focuses on promoting peace through international cooperation in Education, Sciences, and Culture.
  • UNESCO is a member of the United Nations Sustainable Development Group (UNSDG) and contributes to achieving the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).
  • The organisation manages over 50 field offices worldwide, with its headquarters in Paris.
  • It consists of 193 members and 11 associate members (as of April 2020).
  • It operates under the governance of the General Conference and the Executive Board.
  • Three UNESCO member states (Cook Islands, Niue, and Palestine) are not UN members, while three UN member states (Israel, Liechtenstein, United States) are not UNESCO members.