Preserving heritage

August 1, 2024

NEW DELHI – India, a land of cultural consciousness, great traditions, and rich heritage, is home to 43 UNESCO World Heritage Sites. Among these, 34 are cultural, seven are natural, and one, Kanchenjunga National Park, is of mixed type. This impressive number places India sixth in the world for the number of heritage sites recognized globally by UNESCO. Despite numerous invasions aimed at destruction and loot, India has managed to preserve many monuments and much of its cultural ethos. These heritage sites are living symbols of India’s contribution to human civilization, playing a crucial role in tourism, education, and local economies. As India hosts the 46th World Heritage Session for the first time, global attention is focused on the conservation of heritage.

It is a matter of pride that despite being a high-ranking country in terms of heritage sites, India is hosting this session now, thanks to its visionary leadership that prioritises heritage alongside development. This event underscores the importance of preserving and promoting India’s identity and heritage on the world stage. For these efforts to be sustainable, it is imperative to instil a sense of responsibility and awareness about heritage conservation in the young generation, starting from the school level and extending through university education.

Heritage sites in India, ranging from the prehistoric caves of Bhimbetka to the iconic Taj Mahal and from Ajanta and Ellora to the natural splendour of the Sundarbans, encapsulate the essence of the country’s rich cultural and natural history. These sites attract millions of tourists every year, contributing significantly to the economy. Tourism generated from these heritage sites supports local