The 46th Session of the World Heritage Committee concluded at Bharat Mandapam on Tuesday, with India pledging $1 million to UNESCO to support capacity-building and conservation projects in developing countries.
Culture and Tourism Minister Gajendra Singh Shekhawat praised the Ministry of Culture and the Archaeological Survey of India for successfully hosting the event, which was held for the first time in India from July 21st to 31st.
Shekhawat highlighted Project PARI (Public Art of India), which celebrates India’s public art inspired by its rich heritage. The event featured the launch of Project PARI’s catalogue, showcasing various artworks and installations by artists from across the country.
The WHC session was inaugurated on July 21 by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, alongside UNESCO Director-General Audrey Azoulay and other international dignitaries. In his address, PM Modi emphasized India’s deep connection to its cultural heritage and its role in global conservation.
A major highlight was the approval of 24 new sites for the World Heritage List, including India’s Moidams—the ancient burial mounds of the Ahom Dynasty in Assam. This addition brings India’s total number of World Heritage sites to 43.
The committee reviewed the condition of existing World Heritage sites, especially those at risk, and made important decisions about their conservation. The session addressed requests for international assistance, stressing the importance of financial and technical support in heritage preservation.
Cultural exhibitions and side events accompanied the main session, showcasing India’s diverse heritage through repatriated artifacts, traditional crafts, and innovative heritage preservation approaches