Introduction & Overview
India's rich and diverse cultural heritage positions it as a significant global player in UNESCO's cultural mandate. In the past year, India has continued its active engagement with UNESCO, marked by several notable achievements and initiatives. These include significant new inscriptions on the World Heritage List and the Intangible Cultural Heritage list, expansions in the Creative Cities Network, and a prominent role in global cultural discourse, notably through its G20 Presidency's cultural track.
These developments underscore India's commitment to safeguarding its multifaceted heritage, promoting its creative industries, and contributing to international cooperation for cultural preservation and diversity, all while aligning with UNESCO's aims.
New Nominations & Inscriptions from India
The past year (late 2022 to late 2023/early 2024) has been particularly fruitful for India in terms of UNESCO inscriptions, recognizing its tangible and intangible treasures.
World Heritage List (WHL)
New Cultural Inscriptions
- Santiniketan, West Bengal (Inscribed Sep 2023): India's 41st WHL site. Established by Rabindranath Tagore, known for unique open-air education.
- Sacred Ensembles of the Hoysalas (Belur, Halebidu, Somanathapura), Karnataka (Inscribed Sep 2023): India's 42nd WHL site. 12th-13th century temples renowned for intricate sculptures and Hoysala architectural style.
Source: UNESCO WHC, 45th Session, PIB
Intangible Cultural Heritage (RLICH)
Living Traditions Recognized
- Garba of Gujarat (Inscribed Dec 2023): India's 15th element. Ritualistic and devotional dance performed during Navaratri, fostering unity and devotion.
Source: UNESCO ICH, 18th Session, PIB
Creative Cities Network (UCCN)
Global Hubs of Creativity
- Gwalior (Music), Madhya Pradesh (Inscribed Oct 2023): Designated 'City of Music' with a profound classical music heritage.
- Kozhikode (Literature), Kerala (Inscribed Oct 2023): Designated 'City of Literature' with a rich literary tradition and strong reading culture.
These two additions bring India's total UCCN cities to 8.
Source: UNESCO UCCN, PIB
Memory of the World (MoW) Register
Documentary Heritage
No new inscriptions from India on the MoW Register in the last year. However, national efforts by institutions like the National Archives of India continue towards digitisation and preservation of documentary heritage.
Outcomes of World Heritage Committee Sessions
The 45th session of the World Heritage Committee, held in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, from 10 to 25 September 2023, was particularly significant for India.
Key Outcomes:
- Dual Inscription Success: The most prominent outcome was the successful inscription of two cultural sites from India: Santiniketan and Sacred Ensembles of the Hoysalas. This brought India's total number of World Heritage Sites from 40 to 42.
- Conservation Status Reports: India, as a State Party, regularly submits State of Conservation Reports for its inscribed properties. The Committee reviews these. No Indian site was moved to the 'List of World Heritage in Danger' in this session, indicating stable conservation efforts despite challenges.
Source: UNESCO WHC, 45th Session decisions
Conservation Status of Indian World Heritage Sites
Regular Reporting & Oversight
The Archaeological Survey of India (ASI) and other managing authorities regularly prepare and submit State of Conservation reports to the World Heritage Committee for existing sites. These reports cover:
- Implementation of management plans.
- Challenges from environmental factors (pollution, climate change).
- Pressures from urban development and encroachment.
- Impact of tourism.
- Measures taken to address these issues.
Source: Ministry of Culture Annual Reports; Parliamentary Standing Committee Reports
General Challenges
- Air Pollution: Concern for sites like the Taj Mahal, leading to discoloration.
- Urban Encroachment: Rapid urbanization around historical cities (e.g., Delhi, Ahmadabad, Hampi) leading to illegal constructions and pressure on buffer zones.
- Unregulated Tourism: Managing large crowds, waste, and potential damage, requiring robust visitor management plans.
- Climate Change: Threats from rising sea levels (Sunderbans) and extreme weather events.
- Funding & Capacity: Scale of conservation requires more resources and skilled personnel.
Government Initiatives
The Ministry of Culture and ASI continue to implement various conservation and restoration projects, often employing modern scientific techniques alongside traditional methods. Emphasis is also placed on community engagement and sustainable tourism models.
India's Role in UNESCO Governing Bodies & Conventions
India has consistently played a prominent and proactive role in UNESCO's cultural domain, reflecting its status as a founding member and a country with immense cultural diversity.
Membership in Governing Bodies
- World Heritage Committee: Member for 2019-2023 term, actively participated in decision-making. Term concluded after 45th session.
- Intangible Cultural Heritage Committee: Active participant in evaluation and inscription of ICH elements.
- Executive Board: Regularly seeks membership, influencing strategic direction and programmes.
Active Participation in Conventions
India is a State Party to all major UNESCO cultural conventions:
- 1972 World Heritage Convention: Active in nominations and conservation.
- 2003 Intangible Cultural Heritage Convention: Proactive in inventorying and nominations (15 elements).
- 2005 Cultural Expressions Convention: Committed to fostering creative industries and cultural diversity.
Global Advocacy
India champions global initiatives aligning with its cultural ethos and soft power:
- International Day of Yoga (June 21): Proposed by India, adopted by UN.
- International Year of Millets 2023: Championed by India, promoting sustainable agriculture.
- WHO Global Centre for Traditional Medicine (GCTM): Joint initiative in Jamnagar, Gujarat (2022).
Source: UNESCO, Ministry of Culture/MEA
G20 Presidency & Cultural Track Discussions
India's G20 Presidency in 2023 provided an unprecedented platform to showcase its cultural leadership and integrate cultural discourse into global economic and developmental agendas.
G20 Culture Working Group (CWG)
Under India's Presidency, a dedicated Culture Working Group was established. It held four significant meetings across India:
Khajuraho, Madhya Pradesh
Focused on 'Protection and Restitution of Cultural Property'.
Bhubaneswar, Odisha
Focused on 'Harnessing Living Heritage for a Sustainable Future'.
Hampi, Karnataka
Focused on 'Promotion of Cultural and Creative Industries and Creative Economy'.
Varanasi, Uttar Pradesh (Ministerial Meeting)
Culminated in the "Kashi Culture Pathway" document, focusing on 'Leveraging Digital Technologies for the Protection and Promotion of Culture'.
Key Themes & Alignment with UNESCO
The four themes of the CWG directly mirror UNESCO's core cultural mandates, showcasing a strong synergy:
- Protection & Restitution: Aligns with UNESCO's efforts against illicit trafficking.
- Living Heritage: Direct link to the 2003 ICH Convention.
- Creative Industries: Directly links to the 2005 Convention on Cultural Expressions and UCCN.
- Digital Technologies: Links to UNESCO's work on digital transformation in culture (e.g., MoW).
Outcomes & Synergies
- The G20 Culture Ministers' Meeting in Varanasi adopted the "Kashi Culture Pathway" document, endorsing the four priorities.
- Demonstrates India's leadership in integrating culture into mainstream global governance discussions.
- Complements and potentially informs UNESCO's ongoing programmes, paving the way for future collaborations.
Source: G20 India official website, Ministry of Culture
Conclusion & Significance
The last year has been a landmark period for India's interface with UNESCO and its cultural initiatives. The inscription of new World Heritage Sites, an ICH element, and UCCN cities, coupled with India's leadership in the G20 cultural track, reinforces its commitment to global heritage conservation and cultural diplomacy. These efforts highlight the growing recognition of culture as an enabler of sustainable development and a bridge for international understanding.
Significance & Way Forward
Reinforced Global Stature
India's active participation and successful nominations solidify its position as a major contributor to global cultural heritage and dialogue.
Increased Responsibility
More inscribed sites and elements necessitate enhanced domestic conservation efforts, sustainable management, and robust legal frameworks.
Cultural Diplomacy
Leveraging these cultural assets and leadership roles (e.g., G20 CWG) to project India's soft power and foster mutual respect among nations.
Sustainable Development
Integrating cultural heritage and creative industries more deeply into local and national development plans, ensuring heritage benefits communities.
Digital Future
Continuing to embrace digital technologies for documentation, preservation, access, and promotion of India's diverse cultural expressions.
By building on these recent successes, India can continue to lead in showcasing the transformative power of culture for peace, understanding, and sustainable development, both within its borders and on the global stage.
Prelims-ready Notes
New Inscriptions (Late 2023)
- World Heritage Sites (WHL): Santiniketan (41st, Cultural), Sacred Ensembles of the Hoysalas (42nd, Cultural). Total WHL sites: 42.
- Intangible Cultural Heritage (ICH): Garba of Gujarat (15th element).
- Creative Cities Network (UCCN): Gwalior (Music), Kozhikode (Literature). Total UCCN cities: 8.
Key Facts
- WHC Session (45th, Sep 2023, Riyadh): Inscribed Santiniketan and Hoysala sites.
- Conservation Status: India submits regular reports; no site on 'in danger' list recently. Recurring concerns: pollution (Taj), encroachment, over-tourism.
- India's UNESCO Role: Founding member; member of WHC (2019-2023 term concluded); active in ICH/MoW committees; champion of International Day of Yoga, International Year of Millets.
G20 Cultural Track (India's Presidency 2023)
- Culture Working Group (CWG): 4 meetings (Khajuraho, Bhubaneswar, Hampi, Varanasi).
- Themes: Protection of Cultural Property, Living Heritage, Creative Industries, Digital Technologies for Culture.
- Outcome: Kashi Culture Pathway document.
| Category | Element/Site | Year of Inscription | Status/Details |
|---|---|---|---|
| World Heritage Site | Santiniketan | Sep 2023 | India's 41st WH Site (Cultural) |
| World Heritage Site | Sacred Ensembles of the Hoysalas | Sep 2023 | India's 42nd WH Site (Cultural) |
| Intangible Cultural Heritage | Garba of Gujarat | Dec 2023 | India's 15th ICH Element |
| Creative City Network | Gwalior | Oct 2023 | City of Music |
| Creative City Network | Kozhikode | Oct 2023 | City of Literature |
Mains-ready Analytical Notes
Strategic Alignment
India's nominations and G20 cultural track demonstrate a strategic alignment of national cultural policies with UNESCO's global mandates for peace, diversity, and sustainable development.
Soft Power Projections
Increased visibility from UNESCO inscriptions and G20 cultural leadership significantly enhance India's soft power and cultural diplomacy on the global stage.
Challenges in Management
While inscription brings recognition, core challenges of conservation (pollution, climate change, encroachment), sustainable tourism, and funding persist for the growing number of sites.
Integrated Approach
Emphasis on living heritage and creative industries signifies a shift from mere monument preservation to a holistic approach that values culture as a dynamic, community-driven force with economic potential.
Future Nominations
India's active engagement suggests continuous efforts for new nominations from its extensive Tentative List, requiring ongoing commitment and resources.
Role of States & Local Bodies
Successful management and nominations depend heavily on effective coordination between central agencies and state/local governments, highlighted by the G20 cultural track.
UPSC Previous Year Questions (PYQs)
Prelims MCQs (with Accordion Answers)
UPSC Prelims 2023: In the context of the UNESCO Intangible Cultural Heritage list, which of the following statements is/are correct?
1. Yoga was inscribed on the Representative List of the Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity in 2016.
2. Kumbh Mela was inscribed on the Representative List of the Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity in 2017.
Select the correct answer using the code given below:
- (a) 1 only
- (b) 2 only
- (c) Both 1 and 2
- (d) Neither 1 nor 2
Answer: (c)
Hint: Both statements are factually correct. This shows the importance of knowing specific elements and their inscription years in the ICH list.
UPSC Prelims 2019: With reference to the UNESCO Creative Cities Network, which of the following Indian cities was/were included in the network in 2019?
- (a) Jaipur and Varanasi
- (b) Chennai and Mumbai
- (c) Mumbai and Hyderabad
- (d) Srinagar and Jaipur
Answer: (c)
Hint: This directly tests knowledge of Indian cities in the UCCN and their inscription years, highly relevant to current affairs.
UPSC Prelims 2015: The World Heritage Site 'Group of Monuments at Hampi' is located in:
- (a) Karnataka
- (b) Andhra Pradesh
- (c) Tamil Nadu
- (d) Telangana
Answer: (a)
Hint: While a basic location question, it's about a World Heritage Site. Recent G20 CWG meeting was held in Hampi, making it a current affair indirectly.
Mains Questions (Analytical)
UPSC Mains 2022 (GS I):
Explain the difference between the World Heritage List and the Representative List of Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity, with examples from India.
Direction: This is a foundational question. In the context of current affairs, one could mention the recent inscriptions of Santiniketan and Hoysala temples (WHL) and Garba (ICH) to exemplify the distinction.
UPSC Mains 2021 (GS I):
Discuss the challenges and opportunities of integrating traditional knowledge with modern scientific systems in India.
Direction: This can be linked by discussing how UNESCO's ICH list recognizes traditional knowledge (e.g., Yoga, Garba) and how government initiatives, sometimes influenced by G20 discussions (e.g., on living heritage), seek to validate and integrate these, presenting both challenges (e.g., standardization) and opportunities (e.g., holistic healthcare).
UPSC Mains 2019 (GS I):
Highlight the significance of the 2003 UNESCO Convention for the Safeguarding of the Intangible Cultural Heritage for India.
Direction: This directly asks about the ICH Convention. In a current affairs context, one must include the latest inscription of Garba, and mention the growing number of ICH elements, linking them to community empowerment and cultural diplomacy.
Trend Analysis (UPSC Questions)
Prelims Trends:
- Earlier (pre-2018): Focused on basic factual recall (names, locations of WH Sites).
- Recent (2018 onwards): Significant shift towards current affairs. Questions cover newest inscriptions (WHL, ICH, UCCN), specific elements, purpose of conventions. Critical to be updated.
Mains Trends:
- Consistent Analytical Focus: Requires discussions on significance, challenges, opportunities.
- Strong Current Affairs Integration: Mandatory to integrate recent developments (new inscriptions, G20 cultural track) for contemporary understanding.
- Policy & Governance Angle: Emphasis on how India's engagement influences national cultural policies and broader goals.
- Questions often demand nuanced understanding of culture's contribution to economy, social cohesion, and international relations.
Original MCQs for Prelims
Consider the following pairs of recently inscribed UNESCO cultural elements/sites from India:
1. Santiniketan: World Heritage Site (Cultural)
2. Garba of Gujarat: Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity
3. Kozhikode: Creative City of Gastronomy
Which of the pairs given above are correctly matched?
- (a) 1 and 2 only
- (b) 2 and 3 only
- (c) 1 and 3 only
- (d) 1, 2 and 3
Answer: (a)
Explanation: Santiniketan and Garba were recently inscribed correctly. Kozhikode is a Creative City of Literature, not Gastronomy (Hyderabad is Gastronomy).
With reference to India's G20 Presidency and its cultural track in 2023, which of the following statements is/are correct?
1. The G20 Culture Working Group focused on four priority areas, including leveraging digital technologies for culture.
2. The "Kashi Culture Pathway" was the outcome document of the G20 Culture Ministers' Meeting.
3. All four G20 Culture Working Group meetings were held in India's UNESCO World Heritage Sites.
Select the correct answer using the code given below:
- (a) 1 only
- (b) 1 and 2 only
- (c) 2 and 3 only
- (d) 1, 2 and 3
Answer: (b)
Explanation: Statement 1 is correct (digital technologies was a priority). Statement 2 is correct. Statement 3 is incorrect; while Khajuraho and Hampi are WH sites, Bhubaneswar and Varanasi (though culturally significant) are not, so not all meetings were held in WH Sites.
Original Descriptive Questions for Mains
Question 1 (15 marks, 250 words):
"India's recent successful inscriptions on various UNESCO cultural lists and its leadership in the G20 cultural track underscore a nuanced understanding of culture as both a heritage and a driver for sustainable development." Elaborate on this statement with suitable examples from recent current affairs.
Key Points/Structure: Introduce India's cultural presence and recent achievements, linking heritage to development. Discuss culture as heritage (WHL, ICH, MoW) with examples like Santiniketan, Hoysala, Garba. Then discuss culture as a driver for sustainable development (UCCN, G20 CWG themes like creative economy, living heritage, digital tech). Conclude by summarizing India's integrated approach.
Question 2 (10 marks, 150 words):
Critically analyze the challenges that India faces in managing its growing portfolio of UNESCO World Heritage Sites, particularly in the context of increasing tourist footfall and urban expansion. Suggest concrete measures for their sustainable management.
Key Points/Structure: Acknowledge India's 42 WH sites and escalating challenges. Detail challenges: pollution, urban expansion/encroachment, unregulated tourism, funding/coordination. Suggest measures: integrated management plans, sustainable tourism policies, robust legal frameworks, tech interventions, enhanced funding, community engagement. Conclude by emphasizing proactive strategies.