World Heritage Day: 7 things about India’s journey to heritage preservation

This year’s theme, “Heritage under Threat from Disasters and Conflicts: Preparedness and Learning from 60 Years of ICOMOS Actions”, highlights the growing challenges heritage sites face due to natural disasters and human conflict.

Marking the occasion, Prime Minister Narendra Modi stated, “Heritage is not just history; it is a shared consciousness of humanity. When we observe historical sites, they elevate our minds beyond the confines of current geopolitical circumstances.”

Here are seven key initiatives India has undertaken in recent years to safeguard and recognize its heritage landmarks:

1. 46th session of World Heritage Committee hosted by India

The Archaeological Survey of India (ASI), under the Ministry of Culture, successfully hosted the 46th World Heritage Committee Session in New Delhi from July 21 to July 31, 2024.

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Inaugurated by Modi, the event sought participation from nearly 2,900 delegates from over 140 countries. Highlighting India’s growing leadership in heritage conservation, the session focused on key aspects of preserving cultural, natural, and mixed heritage worldwide.

2. The ASI’s efforts in conserving India’s heritage

India has over 3,500 ancient monuments and archaeological sites declared as monuments of national importance, which are strictly monitored by the ASI.

With ASI’s support, the government has successfully revived key heritage sites through various conservation and development projects. Notable examples include the Kashi Vishwanath Corridor in Varanasi and Mahakaal Lok in Ujjain.

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The ASI has also received prestigious accolades, including the UNESCO Asia-Pacific Award for Cultural Heritage Conservation in 2020 for its role in the Delhi’s Heritage Park sustainable developments and conservation project in Delhi.

3. ‘Adopt a Heritage’ scheme launched by Ministry of Tourism

The ‘Adopt a Heritage’ programme, re-launched by the Ministry of Tourism in 2023, allows private and public organisations to contribute to the development of facilities at protected monuments using their Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) funds.

So far, 21 Memorandums of Understanding (MoUs) have been signed between the ASI and various partner organizations across different states under this initiative.

4. Digitization of Cultural Heritage

The Indian Heritage in Digital Space (IHDS) initiative aims to use technology and artificial intelligence (AI) to preserve and monitor India’s cultural legacy while raising awareness and recognition of these heritage sites.

One key project under this initiative is the ‘Must-See Portal’, launched by the ASI. Designed to promote these sites globally, the portal provides essential information, including historical details, access guidelines, available facilities, and panoramic views. It seeks to attract global visitors, inform tourists about cultural heritage sites, and enhance the global recognition of India’s heritage.

5. The Nation’s first Archaeological experiential museum

The Archaeological Experiential Museum in Vadnagar, inaugurated by Union Home Minister Amit Shah, spans 12,500 square meters  and showcases over 5,000 artefacts from the town’s 2,500-year-old history.

The museum features nine galleries, displaying ancient pottery, sculptures, and tools, and highlights Vadnagar’s significance in various historical periods. Additionally, a 4,000-square-meter excavation site offers visitors a glimpse into ongoing archaeological discoveries. The museum provides an immersive, educational experience, promoting both Vadnagar’s cultural heritage and regional tourism.

6. India’s Literary Achievement on the MOWCAP Register

The Ramcharitmanas, Panchatantra, and Sahrdayāloka-Locana were included in the 2024 Memory of the World Committee for Asia and the Pacific (MOWCAP) Regional Register.

These historical texts, which were written in the 16th century by Goswami Tulsidas, highlight India’s rich cultural history. This recognition underscores the cultural and historical significance of these texts, highlighting India’s rich literary heritage and their global influence, while emphasising the importance of preserving such invaluable cultural treasures.

7. World heritage recognition

India’s commitment to heritage preservation is clearly reflected in its increasing number of UNESCO World Heritage Sites.

Between 2014 and 2023, India added 12 new sites, bringing the total to 42, according to NDTV.

This achievement not only highlights India’s dedication to preserving its rich cultural and historical legacy but also places the country alongside leading nations like Italy, Spain, and China in terms of globally recognised heritage sites. These sites, ranging from ancient monuments to natural wonders, serve as a testament to India’s diverse and enduring cultural heritage, further solidifying its position on the global stage as a protector of world heritage.