46th Session of World Heritage Committee

Context

On July 21, 2024, Prime Minister Narendra Modi inaugurated the 46th Session of the World Heritage Committee at Bharat Mandapam in New Delhi, marking India’s first hosting of this vital platform for discussing cultural and natural heritage preservation. The session runs until July 31, 2024, addressing critical issues related to world heritage sites.

Significance of the Event

India’s Role in Global Heritage Conservation

• Some of the evidence is the World Heritage Committee that is now being hosted by India for three years endorsing conservation of cultures and diversities.
• There are 40 world heritage sites in the country and they cut across the historical monuments, natural landmarks and many more.
• Therefore, through this session, India would be able to give out an insight of its diverse culture as well as encourage the intercession with the fellow nations in conserving the intended artifacts.

Strengthening International Collaboration

• The World Heritage Committee is a place where the member states can come and work together in the conservation of the heritage.
• This session will involve proposals and recommendations on the selection of new sites, the condition of existing sites, and distribution of the international assistance to the heritage conservation projects.
• This will improve the conversation and cooperation of the organization’s meeting with international leaders and professionals to address issues of world heritage.

Agenda of the 46th Session

Discussion on New Nominations

• Among the session’s main concerns is the review of the tentative lists of new nominations to be included in the World Heritage List.
• Then the countries will submit their nominees and the committee will evaluate their historical background and relevance to culture.
• As such, the process is fundamental in identification and conservation of structures that elicits global heritage.

State of Conservation Reports

• The committee will also examine the state of conservation of reports for one hundred and twenty-four other World Heritage sites.
• These reports give information on the calamities experienced by these sites and the measures put in place to protect these sites.
• The debates will revolve around the most efficient practices and measures to strengthen the practice of conservation in the world.

International Assistance and Funding

• A second important component of the session would involve a debate on the use of World Heritage Funds.
• It will also assess the need for international help with supporting conservation in countries of the members of the committee.
• This funding is useful for countries that might not afford to conserve their sites and protect them from degrading.

Cultural Exhibitions and Events

Showcasing Indian Heritage

• During the first session, Bharat Mandapam featured exhibitions that highlighted precious values of Indian culture.
• The fairs that toured these displays included artefacts, arts and crafts, as well as dances and music typical of India.
• In this regard, such displays seek to sensitize the attendances on the history of India and its role within the annals of world history.

Engaging the Public

• Public awareness to the cause of heritage conservation was also presented in the event through the following.
• The awareness was created through organized workshops, seminars and interactive sessions where traditional knowledge and skills were enhanced pertaining to the promotion of cultural and Natural heritage.
• The above activities were meant to promote consciousness and responsibility of the citizens in preservation of heritage.

Challenges in Heritage Conservation

• Climate Change Impact
  • The session discussed the significant threats posed by climate change to heritage sites and emphasised the need for innovative and adaptive solutions.
• Urbanization and Development Pressures
  • The committee highlighted integrating heritage conservation into urban planning to ensure growth does not degrade cultural and natural heritage.

Conclusion

The 46th Session of the World Heritage Committee, inaugurated by PM Modi, marks a significant milestone in India’s engagement with global heritage conservation. It is expected to yield valuable insights and strategies, reflecting India’s commitment to safeguarding its heritage and contributing to global conservation initiatives.